Thanks to the support of King’s Lynn and West Norfolk Borough Council, The QEH is lighting up the landmark building to mark the 30th anniversary of the NHS Organ Donor Register.
The QEH is encouraging the public to take just two minutes to register their decision at www.organdonation.nhs.uk and to be inspired by a very personal story around the impact of organ donation.
Registering can make a significant difference, as families are more likely to honour the wishes of a loved one who has signed the register, and each organ donor has the potential to save up to nine lives.
While thousands of lives are saved or transformed through organ transplants in the UK every year, the need for more donors remains critical. There are currently more than 7,000 people awaiting a transplant, and every day someone loses their life due to a shortage of available organs.
In the East of England, more than 380 people have received transplants in the past year, but tragically, 79 people died while waiting for a suitable donor.
At QEH, in the year to March 2024, eight patients donated their organs, resulting in seven life-saving or life-changing transplants.
Highlighting the importance of organ donation is Jill Hall, QEH’s Director of Corporate Affairs, who has a deeply personal connection to the cause.
Jill’s son, Alex, tragically passed away in 2011, but through his passing, he became an organ donor, giving the gift of life to five others.
In a moving video to support Organ Donation Week, Jill shares her emotional journey, discussing the heartbreak of losing her son and the hope that organ donation brought to other families. Jill’s story serves as a poignant reminder of how one selfless act can save lives. Watch Jill’s story here.
Jill Hall said: “Losing Alex was the hardest thing I have ever gone through, but knowing that his gift has saved the lives of others brings me some comfort. I hope by sharing our story, more people will consider registering as organ donors and talking to their families about their wishes.”
As part of the week’s activities, QEH is encouraging staff and the public to wear pink to raise awareness of organ donation. The lighting of the King’s Lynn Corn Exchange in pink this Friday will further highlight the importance of this life-saving act.
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