SYKES – URGING LOCALS TO SIGN UP AND SAVE LIVES

The Nationals Member for Benalla, Bill Sykes, is strongly urging local people to consider saving a life and signing onto the new ‘consent’ register for organ donations.

Dr Sykes said, “The Victorian Organ Donation Service (LIFEGift) has written to me requesting that I assist with heightening awareness regarding organ donations and to combat the myths that are hindering the process.”

“Following the mail-out conducted by the Federal Government, advising of changes to the Australian Organ Donor Register, many rural Victorian are calling LIFEGift concerned with the alleged restrictions on donating organs in country areas. It appears that many are receiving advice that they live too far from city centres to become organ donors. This is a real problem.”

“LIFEGift have informed me that ‘Organ and tissue donation is possible in rural and regional hospitals provided a person dies in circumstances where donation is medically appropriate and there is access to critical care support’. For this reason I’d like to join with LIFEGift and strongly encourage local people to make a decision about their willingness to become a donor rather than attempting to determine their future ability to become a donor on either medical or logistical grounds.”

Dr Sykes continued, “As a committee member of the Benalla Trust Foundation I had the enormous privilege of being closely involved with the Dods’ family as their baby boy, William, underwent the life saving process of a liver transplant, in November, 2000. I will always remember the amazing difference that one generous organ donor made to the life of that little boy and his family.”

“My office has recently been in contact with William’s mother, Shelley Green, and she too is keen to spread the word to ensure that everyone at least strongly considers the opportunity to save lives through organ donation.”

Dr Sykes concluded, “The decision to donate organs is a very personal one and I do fully understand that it is, for various reasons, not an option for some. However, for anyone who has considered being an organ donor and has been put off by misinformation, or doubts about their future medical or logistical circumstances, I urge you to reconsider.

“Organ donor consent forms are available at my office, through Medicare offices, by calling 1800 777 203 or by visiting www.hic.gov.au/organ.”

Media contact: Bill Sykes (03) 5762 2100 or 0427 624 989