How code 115 could save a life

THE Irish Kidney Association has just announced details of its annual Organ Donor Awareness Week later this month.

RTE broadcaster Claire Byrne is the ambassador for this year’s campaign and launched details of the event which will run from March 31 to April 7.

There are currently some 550 people in Ireland awaiting life-saving heart, lung, liver, kidney and pancreas transplants, yet thanks to the gift of organ donation, almost 3500 people who’ve had transplants are enjoying living a full life again.

As part of its organ donation campaign, the IKA is encouraging families to talk to each other and keep the reminders of their willingness to donate visible by carrying the organ donor card and permitting Code 115 to be included on their driver’s license.

Claire said, “As I take up this role, as ambassador, it is heartening to hear reports that last year was a record year for both deceased and living organ donors and subsequent transplant operations.

‘I would encourage everyone to discuss organ donation with their family members. It is a very important and potentially lifesaving conversation.

I have huge admiration for the many organ donor families, who made the selfless decision to donate a family member’s organs at a time of deep grief.

You can get a donor card by telephoning the Irish Kidney Association on 01-6205306 or free text the word DONOR to 50050. See ika.ie/card for details.