Up The Farway Tree

Apologies for the break in blogging, but I have just escaped from hospital. The oral antibiotics unfortunately didn't work, so I had to go in to start some IVs again and get myself back on track. I am only half way through the course but have been allowed home to finish them here - much better food and more rest in my own bed. I am definitely feeling better than I was last week so everything is moving in the right direction.

While I was in hospital I understand there has been a lot of media attention surrounding Gordon Brown announcing his support for an opt out system for organ donation. Although an opt out system is not the the lone answer to organ shortages, it does seem to have helped improve the rates in other countries. However, even if we do not move to this system, the controversy surrounding the topic has at least highlighted the issue of shortages once more, and gets people talking about donation which in itself is so vital. Although polls suggest over 90% of the population support organ donation, less than a quarter get round to signing the register, which is a permanent way of making your wishes clear. Relatives will refuse consent for donation in around 40% cases; the main reason being given is that they did not know what their relatives wishes were. Even if we move to an 'opt out' system where consent is presumed, the relatives would still be consulted and retain the power to override the decision to donate, if they felt this was what their relative would want. I can see argument both for an against an opt out system, and I can also understand why people may not wish to donate, and whole heartedly agree that they should reserve the right to make this decision. What I do feel very strongly about however is the need for people to talk about the topic of organ donation with their nearest and dearest. Although it is a difficult and emotive subject to broach, that one conversation where your wishes are made clear, could be the difference between life and death for someone waiting on that vital transplant.

click here to sign register