Approximately 300 Canadians die each year waiting for an organ transplant. Unfortunately, statistics show that Canada has one of the lowest organ donation rates in the world. Also, half the Canadian population is unaware if family members wish to donate their organs.

When a healthy person dies in an accident, many of their vital organs can be donated including eyes, lungs, kidneys, heart, pancreas, bone, liver and tissue. For some people, this idea is difficult to fathom; however, it can be looked at in a positive way that the victim or family member did not die in vain and their spirit will live on through the generosity of organ donation. Often, knowing this perspective can provide extreme comfort to family members and friends of the deceased.

It is not quite understood why people don’t take the time to complete the organ donation section of their driver's license. Perhaps they are fearful, they don’t believe they could possibly perish, or maybe they simply don’t like the idea of surgically removing their organs. One thing is certain, when a person in good health dies, donating their organs could possibly save the lives of up to six people.

Saved by a double-lung transplant
Mary Goulet, a woman who resides in the Laurentians, suffered from pulmonary (lung) fibrosis. As time passed, it became more and more challenging for Goulet to breathe. She could no longer enjoy walking her dogs, driving her car or carry out simple daily tasks. After almost a year of anxiously waiting for a lung donor, Goulet was rushed into a Montreal hospital to receive the gift that saved her life – a double lung transplant. “This gift has allowed me to appreciate my life, to see my grandchildren grow and to live every day to the fullest,” says Goulet. “Don’t postpone what can be done today. You never know what tomorrow will bring.”

Currently, there are more than 4,000 Canadians who are waiting for an organ transplant. If they receive the required organ(s), their lives could be saved or greatly enriched. The need for organ or tissue donation will soon rise due to our aging population.

No restriction for organ donation
There is no age restriction for organ donation, or additional charge to you or your family. Only your general health and underlying medical history will determine if you could donate your organs. Even if you wear glasses due to poor vision, you can still donate your corneas.

Why should you choose to donate?
Donated organs don’t just positively impact the life of the person who receives them, but they also bring purpose to the donor’s family. Studies have shown that families who have donated the organs of a deceased relative feel consoled knowing their loss has served an important purpose.

Upon understanding the benefit of donating your organs, you may do so by completing the donation form attached to your license or express your wish in your will executed by a notary. It is empowering to know that you can save the life of one or more people!