‘Talk the talk’ to make a difference this DonateLife Week

Released 30/07/2018

Canberrans are encouraged to use this week as an opportunity to discuss their decision of becoming an organ donor with their families.

At the launch of the DonateLife Week in the ACT, Minister for Health and Wellbeing Meegan Fitzharris said that families who know each other’s donation decisions are more likely to support them, knowing they are respecting their loved one’s wishes.

“Last year, fourteen ACT organ donors and their families enabled 59 people to receive lifesaving organ transplants. That’s why raising awareness about organ and tissue donation remains a priority for the ACT Government,” Minister Fitzharris said.

“We know that nine in ten families agree to donation when their loved one is a registered donor, and that is why encouraging people to sign up and have the conversation with their loved ones is crucial.

“All it takes is one minute to register your donation decision, which could in turn make a lifetime of difference to someone. So get together with your loved ones and talk to them about your decision to become an organ donor,” Minister Fitzharris said.

Around 1,400 people are on Australian organ transplant waiting list at any time and only around 2 per cent of people die in the specific circumstances where organ donation is possible.

DonateLife Week will be held from Sunday 29 July to Sunday 5 August 2018.

The week aims to raise awareness of organ and tissue donation and increase donation rates and transplantation outcomes.This year’s national theme of DonateLife Week is ‘donate strength, donate love, donate hope, donate life’.

For more information about the DonateLife Week visit: www.donatelife.gov.au/donatelife-weekTo register your donation decision online visit: donatelife.gov.au/decide

- Statement ends -

Meegan Fitzharris, MLA | Media Releases

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