Wodonga-based Senator Bridget McKenzie is encouraging Border families to make a New Year's resolution that counts this year and register as an organ and tissue donor.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
$0/
(min cost $0)
or signup to continue reading
With around 1500 Australians on waiting lists for a transplant Senator McKenzie said it only takes one minute.
"Make 2020 the year you make a New Year's resolution that can make a difference by registering as an organ and tissue donor," she said.
Senator McKenzie notes the importance of not only registering but talking to family about organ donation.
"The festive season is a time where friends and family get together, which gives people ample opportunity to take five minutes and talk with one another about becoming a registered donor," she said.
"Use the time you're spending with friends and family this holiday to get together and talk about organ donation, and take the step to register as a donor.
"If you want to be an organ and tissue donor when you die, your family needs to know - it's as simple as that."
IN OTHER NEWS:
Senator McKenzie urges locals to count themselves in, not rule themselves out, and leave the decision if you are able to be a donor up to the doctors when the time comes.
"You are never too old to register and having a few drinks and or eating unhealthy won't stop you from being a donor," Senator McKenzie said.
"Even if you can't become an organ donor many people go on to become eye, skin and tissue donors,"
"A cornea transplant can restore sight, a skin graft will heal a sever burn, and tissue can help repair genetic defects."
Through organ donation, transplant recipients are given a second chance at life - having an active role within their family, returning to work and planning for a future.
In the last decade more than 11,000 Australians have received an organ transplant thanks to 4000 donors and their families.
To register as an organ and tissue donor, and to find out more go to donatelife.gov.au.
