The Organ Donor Foundation has shared the exciting news that they have a volunteer presence in Bloemfontein, thanks to Elzette, who is passionate about raising awareness.
Bloemfontein, South Africa (16 November 2021) – The Organ Donor Foundation advocates for awareness in South Africa and they recently celebrated being represented in Bloemfontein.
The ODF is a non-profitable and public benefit organisation. Striving to promote Organ and Tissue Donation in South Africa. The aim is to raise public awareness of the critical shortage of organ donation in our country.
“So excited to announce we finally have a volunteer presence in the Bloemfontein region. Thank you Elzette, who hosted her first awareness stand at Life Rosepark hospital today.” – Organ Donor Foundation Informer
They hope to educate South Africans on donation as well to encourage them to become registered donors. Running these awareness sessions helps to eliminate fears, negativity, misconceptions and combat inaccurate information that prevents one from becoming an organ and tissue donor.
Unfortunately, organ donation is misconceived in South Africa; hence the conversation and action are avoided amongst many.
For some, a transplant is their only hope to continue living. There is a dire shortage of available organs. With so many people awaiting life-saving transplants, the foundation urges more people to register as donors and speak to their families about their wishes. By becoming an organ and tissue donor, a person has the potential to save up to 50 lives when they die.
Anyone is eligible to become an organ and tissue donor. All medical tests needed to see if you are eligible to be a donor are done at the time of your death. There is no age limit.
Being an organ/tissue donor is a selfless act of kindness. Donations cost absolutely nothing; no financial compensation is received by the donor or their family.
Here is how you can become an organ donor:
- Firstly, register online at www.odf.org.za or call the Organ Donor Foundation
on toll-free number – 0800 22 66 11. - It’s important to inform your family and make it known to them to honour your wishes.
- The most important part of organ and tissue donation is that you undertake to make it known:
- Ensure you have the conversation with your family, colleagues and your friends.
The only way we can save those on the waiting list is to raise awareness.
by 