August is marked as organ donor month to raise awareness on the importance of organ donations.
South Africa has a high rate of organ transplantation but there is still a high number of patients waiting for transplants and it continues to increase.
According to statistics by the Organ Donor Foundation, registrations for organ donations has been the highest in August with 3949 registrations.
To become a potential organ donor, one must register on www.odf.org.za or call 0800 22 66 11.
A donor card and sticker will be supplied to you to keep in your purse, wallet, ID and driver’s license.
If you are in good health and are not diagnosed with chronic disease that can affect the recipient, you will be considered as a possible donor.
Having a medical condition doesn’t always prevent potential donors from becoming donors.
Organs that could be used will be established at the time of your death.
A heart, liver, pancreas, kidneys and lungs from a single donor can save up to seven lives while donating your corneas, skin, bone and heart valves can save up to 50 lives.
No costs are involved for signing up or donation.
For more information on becoming an organ donor, contact 0800 22 66 11 or log onto www.odf.org.za
