This week is DonateLife Week and the community is being reminded about the importance of registering to become an organ donor.
CCLHD Donation Specialist Coordinator Yoni Hope-Hodgetts said there are currently around 1,800 people on the organ waitlist. This includes around 70 people waiting for a life-saving heart and 1,450 people waiting for a kidney.
“We know 80 per cent of Australians aged 16 and over support organ and tissue donation—yet only seven million are actually registered,” Ms Hope-Hodgetts said.
“Once you register it is important to let your family know of your decision. They will always be asked to support your decision before organ donation goes ahead. It is easier for a family to make a decision when they know the wishes of their loved one.
“Many of the families that I look after tell me that upholding the wishes of their loved one and helping other people provided them with solace during a very difficult time.”
To honour the 71 people from the Central Coast who have become organ donors since this service was introduced at CCLHD, Ms Hope-Hodgetts will be riding over 500kms during DonateLife Week.
“I will spend each ride reflecting on each donor and thinking of their family who so generously said yes to organ donation at such a difficult time in their lives,” Ms Hope-Hodgetts said.
“I also hope my rides encourage people to think about organ donation, make a decision and then register their decision.”
It takes a minute to register to be a donor. Register at donatelife.gov.au or with three taps in your Medicare app.