Gift of Life

I'm not sure when I decided I wanted to be an organ donor. But I don't think I've ever considered NOT being one. The way I look at it, if I no longer need organs or tissue that somebody else desperately needs, why not? The way our system works, however, is that we need to opt IN to the organ donation program, instead of opting out. There are thousands of people who are on the donor list, who will never live to get the transplant they need. We could save more lives if the program was opt-in by default and one would have to opt OUT if you did not want to donate your organs, for whatever reason.

Up until recently, the only way for a person to let others know they were an organ donor was to sign the little green card that comes with your driver's licence and let their loved ones know. Now, there is a website set up so you can register online and have a note on your health card to let doctors know, if such an event arises, that you are an organ donor. This is important, as you may not always have your card on you, and it ensures that your wishes are followed.

Go to www.beadonor.ca. The registration is quick, simple and all you need is your health card.

I know it's a slightly morbid way to look at things, but I don't see it as a way of preparing to die or anything of the sort. I see it as an opportunity to give life for those who have no other option. I see it as a choice I can make to share what I no longer need for those who need it most. If my last act is to save a life, or even eight, why not?

Note:
Beadonor.ca is an Ontario-specific site. More local information can also be found here at the Trillium Gift of Life Network
For my American readers, http://organdonor.gov

A man has made at least a start on discovering the meaning of human life when he plants shade trees under which he knows full well he will never sit.
-D. Elton Trueblood