27 May 2009

Signing up for Organ donation

Conservatives and Unionists Candidate Jim Nicholson, alongside UUP Party colleagues Michael McGimpsey and Sir Reg Empey have embarked on a new initiative attempting to raise awareness for Organ Donation in Northern Ireland.

At an event today at Newtownbreda Health Centre Jim encouraged those attending to sign up for the Organ Donor Register.  He also stressed that he would be writing to all Party Members asking them to sign up for the Organ Donor card.

Jim said; “My colleague Michael McGimpsey has stressed the need for Donors to come forward in Northern Ireland and I hope that by raising awareness, we will be able to save lives.  Over 8000 are currently waiting for transplants in Northern Ireland alone – we need to reduce these numbers.  While over 3,000 organ transplants take place every year there remains a vital need for Organ Donors.”

Jim initially got involved in the project through party colleague Jo-anne Dobson whose son recently underwent surgery.
Joanne said; “Jim’s assistance here today has been most encouraging and I hope his support will raise awareness in relation to organ donation. My son Mark recently underwent a kidney transplant after developing renal failure three years ago.  He has been one of the fortunate ones and he had a life saving kidney transplant back in February.  As a parent I fully understand the importance of organ donation.”

Jim Nicholson described Mark as an inspiration; “Mark has had kidney problems throughout his young life but now thanks to the courage and generosity of others, during what can be the most tragic of circumstances he has been able to move forward.  Is this not reason enough to carry an organ donor card?”

There is a new hotline now available 24 hours a day - seven days a week - 0300 123 23 23.

Health Minister, Michael Mc Gimpsey added “There are currently nearly 8,000 people waiting for a transplant operation and 1,000 people a year – 3 a day – die while waiting.  Potential donors should be encouraged to join the ODR and discuss their wishes with those close to them.”
He also praised  renal nurses and transplant co-ordinators for the dedication and support they offer to the transplant patient and their families which goes well beyond the call of duty.

Anyone wanting to join the ODR can also visit www.organdonation.nhs.uk or pick up a leaflet in their GP surgery. 

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