If you knew that you could save someone's life by giving them something you no longer needed, would you do it?
Statistics released during Australian Organ Donor Awareness Week (21-28 February) show almost 17,000 Territorians are registered on the Australian Organ Donor Register but more are needed to meet demand.
Every organ donor can save or improve the lives of up to ten people by opting to donate their heart, lungs and kidneys, liver, pancreas, eyes, skin and bone.
NT Organ Donor Coordinator Lee Wood said registration alone, though, is not enough and Territorians should talk about organ donation with their family.
"If your family knows you want your organs or tissue donated then when they're consulted they can confirm your decision to donate and, ultimately, save lives," said Ms Wood.
Further statistics show that although 81 per cent of people are willing to donate organs and tissue, less than half have actually registered.
"Organ Donation rates in Australia are among the lowest in the world.
"Territorians can register themselves as an organ or tissue donor by calling 1800 777 203 or by visiting www.medicareaustralia.gov.au," said Ms Wood.
For Australian Organ Donation Awareness Week 2009 there will be information displays at:
- Casuarina Shopping Square (Darwin) - Tuesday 24 Feb
- Charles Darwin University (Darwin) - Wednesday 25 Feb
- Palmerston Shopping Centre (Palmerston) - Thursday 26 Feb
- Yeperenye Shopping Centre (Alice Springs) - Friday 27 Feb
Media contact: Darrel Trueman, 0401 116 203; Cameron Jackson, 0401 116 144
Release date: 23 February 2009
