Importance of becoming organ donor highlighted

Apart from the great need of kidney donors there are currently more than 3,500 South Africans waiting for organ and tissue transplants.

As a result of a critical shortage fewer than 1,000 of them will receive a transplant and the "Gift of Life" this year.

According to the Organ Donor Foundation many people are unaware of the feasibility of live donations.

Donations of kidneys or part of a liver are often done between family members, because the blood groups and tissue types are more compatible to ensure a high success rate.

You can also donate bone marrow while you are alive.

If someone is declared brain dead their organs can be donated to improve the lives of up to 15 patients.

If you would like to become an organ donor all you need to do is call the Organ Donor Foundation on +27 (0)80 0226611 for further information.

Participats will receive a brochure, a credit card-sized card to fill in and carry in your wallet and two small stickers to put on your ID document and on your driver's licence.

Source: The Herald

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