The conversations of life

Did you know only 33 per cent of Australians are registered for organ donation?

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That’s despite 81 per cent of us agreeing that registration is important and we are prepared to do it.

Unsurprisingly, the Federal Government wants to double this number. They’ve now created a new online form for the Australian Organ Donor Register at www.donatelife.gov.au so people can register in just a couple of minutes via mobile phone, tablet or computer.

It’s a good idea. One person’s organs can save up to 10 lives.

And while you can still register at the myGov and Department of Human Services websites, most states and territories no longer have organ donation in drivers’ licences so it’s up to people to register themselves.

Planning for end-of-life wishes

More importantly however, you should to talk to your family about your wishes regarding your organs. DonateLife says that in nine out of 10 cases where end-of-life wishes regarding organs have been discussed, they are carried out.

This drops to just 52 per cent when there’s no discussion because the family don’t know their loves ones wishes and in a time of grief, they often say no.

Almost everyone can donate whatever their age or medical history. With over 1,400 people currently on the waiting list, why not take the step? I am.

You can register here.

This week is DonateLife Week.

Lauren is a journalist for villages.com.au, agedcare101 and The Donaldson Sisters. Growing up in a big family in small town communities, she has always had a love for the written word, joining her local library at the age of six months. With over eight years' experience in writing and editing, she is a keen follower of news and current affairs with a nose for a good story.


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