August is Organ Donor Month – if you are considering becoming an organ donor, here is some useful information.
Did you know that one person can save seven lives when they become an organ donor? This includes the use of one heart, two lungs, two kidneys, one liver and one pancreas. One donor can also improve the quality of life of up to 50 more people by donating their tissue – their skin, bone, heart valves and corneas. The problem is that unless someone is actually signed up as a donor, their organs cannot be used after they have passed on and the opportunity to save lives goes to waste.
The Organ Donor Foundation (ODF) is a non-profit organisation with the aim of addressing the critical shortage of organ and tissue donors in South Africa through awareness and education.
How to become a donor
The process is straightforward. Register online or call the Organ Donor Foundation’s toll free line on 0800 22 66 11. They will then send you a small organ donor card to fill in and carry in your wallet. They will also send you a sticker to put on your ID document and on your driver’s license. It is very important to discuss the decision with your family. Let them know that you want to donate your organs/tissue after death. Ask them to honour your wish.
There is no cost involved and any person who is in good health and is clear of defined chronic diseases that might adversely affect the recipient will be considered as a possible donor.
To sign up as an organ donor or for more information visit www.odf.org.za.