Encouraging Lambeth and Southwark residents to become organ donors

Our staff are encouraging Southwark and Lambeth residents, particularly those from the black and minority ethnic communities, to become organ donors during national transplant week.

This year’s theme of ‘pass it on’ running from 9 and 15 July not only reflects the importance of joining the organ donation register, but making sure that your family and friends know your wishes.

We carried out 190 adult kidney transplants and 40 transplants on children last year, but a further 10,000 people nationally are still on the waiting list for an organ transplant. There is a critical shortage of organ donors; particularly within the black and minority ethnic communities.

To raise awareness of the organ donation register, staff are involved in a number of activities during national transplant week including: a relay race to other hospitals, giving out information about organ donation and transplantation to colleagues, patients and the public and handing out oyster card holders and donor register cards at Waterloo station.

Consultant transplant surgeon, Chris Callaghan, said: “Using events like national transplant week we want to encourage more people to think about donating their organs so that we can save even more lives.

“3 people will die each day waiting for a transplant, so if you have not joined the register why not join today?

“This year’s theme is about passing on your wishes so your family and loved ones know what you would like to happen after your death.”

Marlies Ostermann, renal and intensive care consultant and the clinical lead for organ donation said: “It is important that a renowned hospital like Guy’s and St Thomas’ supports organ donation.

“One of our areas of focus as doctors is to consider whether when a patient cannot be saved, they might be a possible donor. This may require us to speak to relatives and it is much easier for all concerned if they have discussed their wishes beforehand.

“Being a donor means that you are truly giving the gift of life and I would encourage anyone to think about joining the register.”

The Trust carries out transplants from deceased patients, as well as transplants from patients who are still living.

Related links

• Organ donation