QA Forum

Question & Answer

We are discussing Living with Diabetes
With Angela Blair, Kristen Hazelwood and the Department of Health and Ageing

Question:
I am 70 years old and have had diabetes for nearly 20 years. Are my organs of use to anyone when I die?

Answer:
Kristen - At any given time in Australia there are almost 2000 people on organ transplant waiting lists. Sadly, many of these die while waiting. Organ donation from one individual can help dozens of others, whereas tissue donation can help 100’s. Indeed statistics released on the Australian Donate website have shown that by the end of November 2006, 182 people had donated organs which allowed 668 people to receive transplants.

Donation can involve the kidneys, lungs, liver, pancreas and heart, in addition to heart valves, skin, and both eye and bone tissue. Anyone can choose to donate organs and tissues - there is no age limit on the donation of some organs and tissues. While age and medical history is considered, don’t assume you are too old or not healthy enough.

It is, however, important to discuss your decision with your family, partner or significant others as they will be an important part of your donation process and therefore should be made aware of your wishes.

The Australian Organ Donor register, which is administered by Medicare Australia on behalf of the Australian Government, provides a simple way for people to record their consent (or objection) to becoming an organ and/or tissue donor for transplantation.

Details of the Australian Organ Donor register can be found on their website. Alternatively, contact can be made by telephoning 1800 777 203.

Beyond being a gift of life, organ donation is also a gift of a better quality of life.

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