Call for organ donors

EUMEMMERRING MP Gordon Rich Phillips has called on people to register as a consenting organ and tissue donor.
Mr Rich Phillips said during Australian Organ Donor Awareness Week that it was easy to register as an organ and tissue donor.
He said it was a simple act with the greatest potential to save or transform the lives of many others.
“Australia urgently needs to increase organ and tissue donation rates in order to save or transform the lives of the 2000 people on transplant waiting lists.
“We’ve seen enough evidence recently to know Australians respond to situations of overwhelming need with a spontaneous generosity that touches its recipients in a life affirming way.
“But while the need for organ and tissue donation is obvious, it’s the one form of generosity that can’t be spontaneous.
“It depends on potential donors registering their consent and discussing it with their families, partner or friends,” Mr Rich Phillips said.
“It is very important that you talk about your wishes with your family, partner or friends now.
“If you don’t they could be faced with being asked to make a decision about donation for you without knowing your wishes.”
Organ and tissue donation registration forms are available through Medicare offices or online. Further information is available on 1800 777 203, or at www.medicareaustralia.gov.au