PETER GOLDRING ENCOURAGES ORGAN DONATIONS

Ottawa – Inspired by a gift received by a family member, Edmonton East Member of Parliament Peter Goldring today spoke in the House of Commons praising those who donate organs and encouraging others to follow in their footsteps.

“It’s such a simple act,” Mr, Goldring says, “but it can have a profound effect on those waiting for transplants and their families. This gift, a Godsend to my eternally grateful sister, is also a true blessing to her loved ones who have silently prayed for this day of liberation for her.”

While some organ donations are from living donors, Mr. Goldring says he is especially trying to encourage people (and their families) to donate their organs after death, when they no longer need them. Organs from one individual can be used in eight life-saving procedures such as heart transplants, he notes, and a further 50 people can have their lives improved through donations of tissue or organs.

In 2008, 4,330 Canadians had health needs requiring an organ transplant, but only 2,083 transplants took place. Two hundred and fifteen people died on the waiting list.

Canada’s organ donation rate is behind that of countries such as the US, Italy, Belgium and Spain.

Families “selflessly contribute this wonderful gift, most often in moments of deep sadness,” Mr. Goldring told the House of Commons. “May this generosity, this giving of life renewal be repeated many fold.”