In the spirit of altruism and the ongoing quest to save lives, Australians are being urged to consider a noble act that extends beyond their lifetime: organ and tissue donation. With a national awareness drive in full swing this week, it's an opportune moment to reflect on the profound impact one person's decision can have on many others.

Despite a heartening 80% of Australians supporting organ donation, according to the federal government's Organ and Tissue Authority (OTA), a mere 36% of the eligible population are registered donors. This discrepancy highlights a significant gap between goodwill and action, a gap that could mean the difference between life and death for those in dire need of a transplant.

So, how does one become a registered organ donor, and what exactly does organ donation entail? Let's delve into the details and dispel some myths along the way.

Australians aged 16+ are encouraged to join the Organ Donor Register, regardless of health status. Credit: Shutterstock

**Registering as an Organ Donor**

Firstly, if you're unsure whether you're already on the list, you can easily check your status [here](https://www.servicesaustralia.gov.au/individuals/services/medicare/australian-organ-donor-register). For those ready to take the step, registration is straightforward. Any Australian resident aged 16 and over can sign up on the Australian Organ Donor Register. Age and health concerns should not deter you; a specialist donation team assesses each potential donor individually, and there's a possibility that your organs and tissues could be suitable for donation.

**Understanding Organ and Tissue Donation**

Organ donation is the process of removing organs from a donor to transplant to someone suffering from organ failure. Tissue donation involves transplanting tissue to a patient in need. While some donations, such as kidneys or liver segments, can come from living donors, most are from those who have passed away, typically in a hospital setting where organs are maintained until transplantation.

The list of what can be donated is extensive, including kidneys, heart, lungs, liver, intestines, pancreas, and various tissues like heart valves, skin, bone, and parts of the eye. It's a testament to medical science's advancements and the generosity of donors that such a range of transplants is possible.

**Can Your Family Override Your Decision?**

Here's where it gets a bit tricky. Even if you're a registered donor, the final say rests with your family. Medical teams will not proceed with organ and tissue donation if your family objects. This is why it's crucial to have conversations with your loved ones about your decision to donate. It ensures they understand and respect your wishes, potentially preventing missed opportunities for transplants.

**Governance of Organ and Tissue Donation**

The Australian Department of Health oversees national policy on organ and tissue donation and transplantation. The OTA works to enhance donation and transplantation outcomes, while Services Australia manages the Australian Organ Donation Register.

**The Importance of Discussing Your Decision**

The OTA emphasizes the importance of discussing your decision with your family. It's not just about making your wishes known; it's about providing clarity and peace of mind for your loved ones during a difficult time. By having these conversations, you're helping to ensure that your desire to help others can be fulfilled.

**The Impact of Your Gift**

The decision to become an organ and tissue donor is a powerful one. With each donor potentially saving or improving up to 10 lives, it's a legacy of hope and renewal. It's about turning loss into a celebration of life, a final act of kindness that echoes through the lives of recipients and their families.

**Join the Conversation**

Key Takeaways

• Australians are encouraged to sign up on the Australian Organ Donor Register, suitable for those aged 16 and over, regardless of perceived health status.
• Organ and tissue donation occurs under specific circumstances, often in a hospital's intensive care unit, and includes a range of organs and tissues.
• Families can consent to organ and tissue donation if the deceased is not a registered donor but can also override the decision of registered donors.
• Discussing organ donation decisions with family is crucial, as opportunities for transplantation can be missed if families are uncertain of the deceased’s wishes. The Organ and Tissue Authority (OTA) and Services Australia oversee organ donation and transplantation.

We at the Seniors Discount Club salute those who choose to register as organ and tissue donors. Your selfless decision embodies the spirit of giving and community that we hold dear. Have you registered as an organ donor, or do you have any concerns about the process? Perhaps you have a story to share about how organ donation has touched your life or the life of someone you know. We invite you to share your thoughts and experiences in the comments below. Let's keep the conversation going and perhaps inspire others to become heroes after they're gone.

 

[Littleboy8]

I registered years ago like my mother and siblings did also, there no use to us dead are they.

 

[BeautifulMousey]

My son had a double lung transplant about 28 years ago. He had Cystic Fibrosis. Unfortunately his body rejected the lungs and he passed before he could receive another set.
My daughter passed in July and we donated her organs. As far as we know there were 5 successful transplants. Someone received her heart, 2 people recived a lung and 2 people who had been on dialysis for years each recived a kidney. All have been discharged from hospital. I hope they all have a long life. They were going to transplant her corneas but don't know how that has gone. Her liver was not suitable. But they also have tissue but don't know how any of that has gone. We don't know the people's names that received the organs, but I do wish them all the best.

 

[Littleboy8]

My son had a double lung transplant about 28 years ago. He had Cystic Fibrosis. Unfortunately his body rejected the lungs and he passed before he could receive another set.
My daughter passed in July and we donated her organs. As far as we know there were 5 successful transplants. Someone revived her heart, 2;people recived a lung and 2 people who had been on dialysis for years each recived a kidney. All have been discharged from hospital. I hope they all have a long life. They were going to transplant her corneas but don't know how that has gone. Her liver was not suitable. But they also have tissue but don't know how any of that has gone. We don't know the people's names that received the organs, but I do wish them all the best.

 

[BeautifulMousey]

Thank you

 

[mOiOz]

My son had a double lung transplant about 28 years ago. He had Cystic Fibrosis. Unfortunately his body rejected the lungs and he passed before he could receive another set.
My daughter passed in July and we donated her organs. As far as we know there were 5 successful transplants. Someone revived her heart, 2;people recived a lung and 2 people who had been on dialysis for years each recived a kidney. All have been discharged from hospital. I hope they all have a long life. They were going to transplant her corneas but don't know how that has gone. Her liver was not suitable. But they also have tissue but don't know how any of that has gone. We don't know the people's names that received the organs, but I do wish them all the best.

 

[mOiOz]

Been an organ donor since my 20s...

 

[Wendy]

If there is anything still of usable when my time is up, then they can have it.

 

[BeautifulMousey]

View attachment 56117

Thank you

 

[Luckyus]

If my organ was any good I'd be using it myself!! Seriously I have left my body to science to to do with what they wish As I doubt that with the exception of liver (although some would say I have a bit of shit on the liver?) everything else is buggered in some way,

 

[mOiOz]

If my organ was any good I'd be using it myself!! Seriously I have left my body to science to to do with what they wish As I doubt that with the exception of liver (although some would say I have a bit of shit on the liver?) everything else is buggered in some way,

That's great! Donating your body to science and donating your organs, are completely different.
The one is only the organs mentioned will be used to replace those in another person.
Body donation is the entire body used for experimental use, for medical and forensic purposes, such as measuring times and states of decay, etc.

 

[MariaG]

Ive been on the list for years.
When my sister passed with cancer, she was so terribly ill, we thought that donation was not viable due to the state of her vital organs.
We were asked if we were willing to donate her eyes. Of course, we felt my sister would have been first to say yes.
Later, we were told that the donation contributed to help at least 4 people suffering with sight related issues.
Organ donation is a way of knowing that there are many ways your choices can be a blessing to others who live each day praying for a miracle.
My sis was a miracle.

 

[Viellarde]

Ive been on the list for years.
When my sister passed with cancer, she was so terribly ill, we thought that donation was not viable due to the state of her vital organs.
We were asked if we were willing to donate her eyes. Of course, we felt my sister would have been first to say yes.
Later, we were told that the donation contributed to help at least 4 people suffering with sight related issues.
Organ donation is a way of knowing that there are many ways your choices can be a blessing to others who live each day praying for a miracle.
My sis was a miracle.

And her miracle lives on in others. What a blessing!

 

[mOiOz]

Ive been on the list for years.
When my sister passed with cancer, she was so terribly ill, we thought that donation was not viable due to the state of her vital organs.
We were asked if we were willing to donate her eyes. Of course, we felt my sister would have been first to say yes.
Later, we were told that the donation contributed to help at least 4 people suffering with sight related issues.
Organ donation is a way of knowing that there are many ways your choices can be a blessing to others who live each day praying for a miracle.
My sis was a miracle.

 

[Jest]

my body has been donated for 15 years, I am still not giving in yet,

 

[Helen Jeffery]

My sister In law passed in 2000 and was a donor, she helped a lot of people.we are also donors.

 

[BeautifulMousey]

Ive been on the list for years.
When my sister passed with cancer, she was so terribly ill, we thought that donation was not viable due to the state of her vital organs.
We were asked if we were willing to donate her eyes. Of course, we felt my sister would have been first to say yes.
Later, we were told that the donation contributed to help at least 4 people suffering with sight related issues.
Organ donation is a way of knowing that there are many ways your choices can be a blessing to others who live each day praying for a miracle.
My sis was a miracle.

Because of the donation, I know there are at least 5 people she has given extra life too. May they all have a long life

 

[Veggiepatch]

I used to be a donor until 2015 when I nominated through my driver's licence. No licence so I don't know what my status currently is.

With a great head of hair, I would be wonderful candidate for Ashley and Martin....

 

[BellaB18]

I registered as an organ donor
many years ago. I have told my family. They are ok with it, and a few have said yes we are going to do the same but have not registered. My husband was a bit funny about it when l told him. I said l feel our bodies are just a shell after we pass on. If l am able to give a person a chance at life why wouldn't l. When my time is up l cannot stop it. If my bits can help one or more people to live their full and best lives why not.It is a very personal decision but if you are thinking about becoming a donor please sign up.
Kind regards to all Vicki

 

[DLHM]

My dead body can be used for donations or research or whatever. Burn the rest.