UHDB colleagues the face of digital Organ Donation campaign at Derbion shopping centre
Dr Greg Fletcher, Clinical Lead for Organ Donation, joined Specialist Nurses Sabina Hardman and Helen Hale, appearing on eye-catching digital artwork across the Derbion in Derby City Centre, promoting organ donation for Organ Donation Week (23 – 29 September 2024).
The posters are displayed on large screens throughout the shopping centre, and the team have shared important messages about the impact of organ donation, and how to register to become a donor.
In Derbyshire, there are currently 99 people waiting for a transplant, with 126 people waiting in Staffordshire. Last year, 132 people received a transplant across Derbyshire and Staffordshire - and statistics show that for one single donor can save or transform the lives of nine others.
Although around 879,803 people in the Derbyshire and Staffordshire are already on the NHS Organ Donor Register, UHDB medical professionals are asking people to register or confirm their decision and make their loved ones aware of their wishes.
Dr Greg Fletcher said it is vital to register your organ donation wishes and discuss with your loved ones, and assured those who are considering this that relatives will always be consulted before organ donation goes ahead. Regrettably, each year, opportunities for transplants are missed because families aren't sure what to do.
He continued: “Organ donation is not talked about enough, and that can potentially leave families and loved ones with some really difficult conversations to have, and decisions to make.
"We know that conversations about the end of life can be tricky, and it's really hard talking about death with our loved ones, but please don’t wait. Speak to your family about organ donation and let them know your decision today."
The Derbion digital poster campaign is just one of the ways we are marking the awareness week here at UHDB. We have provided staff with pink, branded giveaways; had a pink inflatable Air Dancer welcoming visitors to the acute hospital site; and lit the Royal Derby Hospital in pink colours for the week - all to show our support for this important, life-saving campaign.
It is quick and easy to register your decision, call 0300 123 23 23 or visit www.organdonation.nhs.uk