Members of the public are invited to attend an inspirational free presentation on Organ Donation, the latest health seminar for members of Blackpool Teaching Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust.
Jo Haythornthwaite, a woman who donated her husband’s organs and Rosie Neath, who received a lung transplant, will be hosting a seminar with Lee Coulthard, Organ Donation Specialist Nurse, entitled Organ Donation – The Ultimate Gift on Tuesday, September 6, 2016, from 10.30am to 11.30am in the Cardiac Lecture Theatre, Cardiac Education Centre, Cardiac Unit, Blackpool Victoria Hospital.
To tie in with Organ Donation Week 2016, Lee, Jo and Rosie will be explaining what organ donation is, how lives are saved and the importance of discussing your wishes to donate with your family.
Lee said: “Organ donation is not an easy subject to talk about, none of us really want to discuss dying when we believe we have a long life in front of us yet the fact is in this day and age you are more likely to need a lifesaving transplant than to actually donate.
“For those in need of a transplant, the wait can be agonising yet there is a huge expectation that a donor organ will become available.
“Sadly however, three people die every day waiting for that important call. Making your decision to donate after your death and sharing your decision with your family is crucial so that your wishes can be honoured at the appropriate time and these lives can be saved.
“There can be many misconceptions about organ donation and together we hope to answer your questions and allay any fears relating to organ donation as we discuss the clinical facts of donation and the personal stories of giving and receiving organs as told by Jo and Rosie.
“We hope to provide some food for thought so that we generate valuable discussions amongst all who attend, discussions that may lead to a decision to register on the Organ Donation Register to potentially save lives in the future.’
To book a place on the seminar please contact Jacinta Gaynor, Membership & Governors Officer, on 01253 956673. We ask that you sign up to become member of the Trust to attend. Membership can be arranged over the phone.
Membership doesn’t cost anything, and there are numerous benefits for the Trust and the local community alike, which can be seen on the Trust’s website: www.bfwh.nhs.uk. Your application can be received via the website, by post or by telephone.
For further information about this Press Release, please call Jacinta Gaynor, Membership & Governors Officer, on 01253 956673 or email jacinta.gaynor@bfwhospitals.nhs.uk