Sunday, 04 October 2009

• Do You Really Need Them Where You're Going?

  
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  There was a featured question this morning asking if you were an organ donor. I answered the question, but wanted to take a moment and discuss a bit more as to why I made that decision.

  My cousin was about eight years younger than me. She was very sick when she was born and remained that way for much of her life. I can recall my parents discussing the possibility of adopting her so that she could get the proper medical care she would most likely need. My aunt and her husband were not the most stable of people and times were very difficult for them. It never came to pass and she remained with her parents.

  At the age of twelve, her kidneys just stopped working. She spent the next few years on various medications and dialysis to see if they couldn't fix the problem. At the age of sixteen it was determined that a transplant would be necessary. Many members of our family were tested and thankfully, her mother proved to be a match. I had heard that often people will die waiting for their match to become available. It was at that time that I knew I would donate my organs upon my death.

  I informed my mother of my plans and was amazed at her response. She said she would never consent to such a thing so that I had better let someone else know. I did by telling my father and after I married, my husband. I am thrilled to be in a state now that does not require family consent. In California, being registered with the state registry program ensures my wishes will be granted. My new husband is also aware of my wishes and has himself become an organ donor.

  A few years ago I had the opportunity to learn about bone marrow donation. Bone marrow transplants are often used with people dealing with leukemia and other life threatening conditions. This hit close to home for me for one reason; Emily. Children with Down syndrome are at a much higher risk of leukemia and I knew that someday bone marrow might be our saving grace. I contacted the organization and had a kit sent out immediately. For those interested please go to marrow.org for more information.

  Bone marrow donation is something we can do while still here on earth. I won't lie, from what I understand it is a somewhat painful procedure with many draws being taken from your hip area. I don't know about you, but if I saved someone else's life by enduring some pain, it would be totally worth it. You never know, it might be my daughter's life you save. (I certainly hope that never happens, but I have to be realistic)

  As I stated in my earlier blog, in discussing this the past few days, Whitney has come to the decision to donate her organs. She actually had a dear friend killed in a car accident a few years ago and his family made the choice to donate.

  It is something that takes moments to do and could save the life of many. Please, if you are a donor, make sure that you have fulfilled the necessary requirements of your state to ensure your wishes are met. Each state has different regulations and it is extremely important that you know your states. Also, please inform your family as to your choice. Often a family member must give consent even if you designate organ donor on your license. If they don't know this was your decision they might not give consent. Or, much like in my mother's case, won't consent for their own reasons. I went around her and made sure that my father knew and would sign the necessary paperwork.

  kidzandK9z has an amazing story that she would love to share with you about the importance of organ donation. If you haven't met her already, please take a moment and visit her. Your life will never be the same, I promise.

  On a final note; I would be amiss if I didn't mention a few other things. October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month so please make a difference. It is also Down syndrome Awareness Month, so please take a moment and perhaps learn something you didn't know.

  Thanks and please consider organ donation.

  EDIT:

  A question was raised about if there was a charge for the bone marrow test. I went and rechecked the information and there is no charge to the person requesting the kit. They do ask if you would like to make a donation, but none is required to receive the test and be added to the registry. Sorry for the confusion.

   

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