Did you know that between Canada and the USA alone there are over 110,000 people currently waiting for an organ donor? It's really quite staggering isn't it? Unfortunately, many of those waiting will die before they ever get one. I know this because my mom waited years for a new kidney and sadly, she got too sick to ever receive that life saving transplant. I often wonder if she would still be alive today had she been able to get a kidney in time....
Right now, my beloved uncle is currently facing kidney dialysis and eventually a transplant so this is a topic that is certainly near and dear to my heart.
That is why I want to talk about the "two R's" as I like to put it. Reuse and Recycle...yourself. It's Tuesday and we are all about the recycling on Tree Hugging Tuesday right? ;o)
First off all, I know there are people out there whom for whatever reason do not believe in organ donation or do not ever wish to be an organ donor. And you know what? That is totally fine. However don't click on by as this blog post has vital information for you as well!
The most important aspect of organ donation, whether you are for or against it, is discussing your wishes with your family and close friends. This is absolutely vital. I don't just mean your significant other either. That is a start but you need to go one step further. Talk with extended family members about your wishes. Tell your parents, tell your siblings, tell your friends.
I know, I know, you are sitting there thinking, "But I am listed as an organ donor on my drivers license." or "I signed the back of my health care card." or "It's written in my will."
There are many places you can list yourself as an organ donor, but the problem arises when upon your passing, the doctors ask your family what your beliefs are about organ donation and your family doesn't know because you never told them. What if, heaven forbid and knock on wood, you pass away with your significant other and that is the only person you told about your beliefs (either for or against)? It will be your family that is next in line that will be faced with the decision and they won't necessarily have your drivers license, access to your will right away, or any other organ donor card/registry you have filled out. And even if they do have access to your drivers license or online registry etc, your family might still override your wishes in their grief stricken state. If they remember a conversation you had with them, chances are much better they will abide by your wishes.
You have to talk about it. You can not rely on cards, online registries or pieces of paper in the time of your death. Sorry to say it, but it is true. I'm going to repeat this again: tell your significant other, tell your parents, tell your siblings, tell your best friends. Whomever you are closest to in life, tell them.
It's an icky topic to be sure. Nobody ever wants to think about their own mortality, but think of how many lives you can save with one simple conversation? In your death, you can help others live. Letting your family know that you firmly believe in organ donation and if they are ever faced with that decision to go ahead and help as many people as possible could be your one marvelous last act of charity before you cross over to the other side. :o)
If you don't know where to start the conversation you can simply say, "Hey, I read this great blog post on SignificantlySimple.com and they were talking about organ donation. It really got me thinking and I just wanted you to know that in the event you are ever faced with that decision on my behalf this is how I feel about it {and then insert your wishes here}."
Then repeat that convesation with at least 4 other people you are close to. Have I mentioned you need to tell people about your wishes? ;o)
It doesn't have to be a long convoluted macabre conversation. A conversation that is quick and to the point will do fine. :o)
For more information on organ donation check out these great places online:
Canadian Association of Transplants
http://organdonor.gov/
Top Myths About Organ Donation
I hope you are all having a wonderful week so far, and remember, don't take your organs to Heaven, because Heaven knows we need them here. :o)
With love and light ♥,
I called both my parents right away! Luckily, they already knew. But still. :)
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