Canberrans are being asked to 'leave a light on' tonight from 6pm to mark the fourth annual National Donor Heroes' Night in support of organ and tissue donation.
By lighting a candle or turning on a porch light, the event enables families of donors, donor recipients and the community to thank, honour and commemorate those who have donated their organs and tissue.
Minister for Health Rachel Stephen-Smith said organ and tissue donation transforms and saves many lives every year.
"Last year in the ACT, 10 families gave the most generous gift - helping to save and improve the lives of 29 individuals.
"Tonight is also an opportunity to raise awareness about organ and tissue donation. We know many people in Canberra support organ donation but have not had the conversation with family and friends about their wishes or officially registered on the Australian Organ Donor Register. If you would want your family to agree to donation when faced with that difficult decision, it's important to register and to let them know," said Minister Stephen-Smith.
Minister for Human Rights Tara Cheyne said the ACT was the first jurisdiction in Australia in which families have the option to acknowledge a loved one's donation in the death register and on the donor's death certificate
"Donor Heroes' Night is an opportunity to honour and thank those who have given the ultimate gift of organ and tissue donation. The entire community can show their support and acknowledge the contribution thousands of organ and tissue donors have made to the lives of recipients.
"Tonight we encourage Canberrans to have a conversation or consider the importance of registering as an organ and tissue donor," said Minister Cheyne.
