How you can save lives this August

BY becoming an organ and tissue donor, one person has the potential to save nearly 50 lives.

And, in a year characterised by so much loss of life, this August is your chance to make a difference by registering as an organ donor in celebration of National Organ Donor Awareness Month.

Through its ‘Leave a Legacy and Become an Organ Donor’ campaign, the non-profit Organ Donor Foundation (ODF) is promoting organ and tissue donation in a country with a critical shortage.

This campaign seeks to:

– Educate South Africans on organ donation and encourage them to become donors.
– Eliminate fears, misconceptions and inaccurate information that prevent people from becoming donors.

The reality of organ donation

Organ donation in South Africa is misunderstood and often not openly discussed. The reality is organ donation saves many lives globally, with certain patients requiring organ donation for survival.

Because of the misconceptions, there is a dire shortage of available organs. And, with so many people awaiting lifesaving transplants, the ODF is encouraging more people to register as organ donors.

Becoming a donor is easy

Anyone is eligible to become an organ and tissue donor, there is no age limit. All medical tests performed to determine your eligibility as a donor are only conducted when you die.

Being an organ or tissue donor is the ultimate selfless act of kindness. The donation costs absolutely nothing, and there is no financial compensation received by the donor or their family.

It’s important to inform your family so that they will honour your wishes

To become a donor, simply visit www.odf.org.za or call the Organ Donor Foundation’s toll-free number on 0800 22 66 11.