Department of Health
This DonateLife Week, the Top End Health Service is encouraging Territorians to register to be an organ and tissue donor, "grab your plus one", have a conversation about donation with family and friends and encourage them to register also.
Dr Sarah Jones from DonateLife NT said we need more Australians to talk about organ donation, understand it and register on the Australian Organ Donor Register.
While the majority of Australians support organ donation, only 1 in 3 are registered.
"We hear that many Territorians are willing to donate but only 13% of Territorians have registered their donation decision on the Australian Organ Donor Register."
"Organ and tissue donation is such a generous gift, your decision could one day save lives."
Last year four NT donors saved or improved the lives of 10 recipients, giving them a second chance at life.
With around 1,400 Australians currently waitlisted for a transplant and a further 11,000 people on dialysis, we need to optimise every donation opportunity to save more lives.
Dr Sarah Jones from DonateLife NT urged all Northern Territory residents to make their decision count.
"Now is the time to have that conversation with your family and register online to ensure your loved ones are aware of your wishes."
"It is quick and easy, all you need is your Medicare card and internet access to register."
"Registering to be a donor is important because it leaves your family in no doubt of your decision."
"Registration counts, with 90 per cent of families agreeing to donation proceeding when their loved one is a registered donor."
Visit www.donatelife.gov.au to join the Australian Organ Donor Register.
As part of DonateLife Week, community awareness events will be held across the Northern Territory including:
Darwin
Monday 29 July - 2 August DonateLifeNT display and information at Royal Darwin Hospital.
Wednesday 31 July DonateLife NT and Dripstone Middle Schoolpresent a "flash mob" at Royal Darwin Hospital at 11am.
DonateLife NT presents DonateLife Week Trivia Night at the Darwin Trailer Boat Club, which commences at 6.30pm.
Alice Springs
Monday 29 July DonateLife NT display and information at Alice Springs hospital, CAAC Gap Road and Alice Springs Town Council Library.
