Shuswap residents have played their part in saving the lives of others through organ donation.
British Columbians visiting all Service BC locations have been offered the opportunity to register their decision on organ donation.
A program, which was initiated in 2014 under the leadership of Shuswap MLA Greg Kyllo builds on a successful pilot program held at four Service BC offices including the one here in Salmon Arm.
The pilot program showed a four-fold increase in the number of registrations than in the same period the previous year. Due to the success of the initiative in cities like ours, the government has decided to expand the program to all 61 Service BC sites in the province. As most citizens access some type of government service through one of these locations, it is an ideal place to reach out to the many people who might consider donation, but haven’t taken the step to make their wishes known. You can also register online at www.transplant.bc.ca
The demand for transplants is still exceeding the supply. Currently 968,156 citizens have registered their wishes, either yes or no. But with 4.6 million British Columbians out there, many more could participate.
With 598 citizens currently on the transplant waiting list, signing up to become an organ donor could help save lives — possibly the life of a neighbour, co-worker, friend or family member in need.
