Should the NHS have a right to take your organs?

THE law on organ donation is being changed so it will be run on an optout basis, with presumed consent being the new norm (Mail). I am so incensed that I have decided to opt out of organ donation. The Government should not meddle in people’s lives in this way. Organ donation should be freely given, not coerced or taken for granted.

Name and address supplied.

I WENT from a wife to a full-time carer for the four years my husband was on the transplant list. There were seven false alarms when he was prepped for life-saving operations, only for the organs to be deemed unsuitable. Having finally had a life-saving transplant, we appreciate every day thanks to the incredible NHS and the final unselfish gift from someone who will never get the second chance at life my husband now has.

Mrs T. HUR, London N14.

HAVING been the recipient of a new kidney in 1978, which changed my life after six years of dialysis, you would think I’d be in favour of the opt-out system of organ donation. However, I strongly believe in the gift of life: a donation by someone who registered to help others in the event of their death, and their relatives who, at a time of grief, were able to consent to their loved one’s organs being used. Public support of the donor scheme is of prime importance.

PETER FRAZIER, Warwick.

ONLY a third of the population are on the donor register, while a poll says 90 per cent would be willing to donate, but have never got round to registering. That says it all. A kidney donation from me gave my daughter 15 years of a reasonable quality of life. She is now on dialysis and waiting for a new kidney. With more organs available, patients like her could return to a normal life. If people are reluctant to think about donating, it’s simple: just opt out!

Mrs P. GROVE, Kidderminster, Worcs.