Kinlochbervie transplant survivor in organ donor appeal
A KINLOCHBERVIE father, who had a liver transplant seven years ago, is urging local people to register as organ donors.
Fifty-five-year old Duncan Clark has spoken out in the lead-up to Organ Donation Week which runs from Monday to Sunday, September 5-11.
Mr Clark, who has two children, became so ill in 2009 that he was given only two weeks to live. The liver transplant in March of that year saved his life.
He was fortunate - many people die while waiting for a transplant due to a scarcity of organs.
Mr Clark said: “I was very ill and it was only after my transplant that I was told they thought I only had about two weeks to live and my family were asked to take me home.”
All Mr Clark’s family members and friends have since added their names to the organ donor register.
After a period of recovery, Mr Clark went back to work and also resumed his duties as a shinty coach. He has even renovated his house.
He said: “There is life after your operation. I wouldn’t be here today if it wasn’t for organ donation. I think it’s fantastic and everybody should join up. I’m grateful for every day.
NHS Highland’s clincila lead for organ donation, Dr Kevin Holliday said that organ transplation was one of medicine’s great success stories yet some people die because organs are not available.
He said: “Organ donation occurs at a time of great emotional distress. But donating organs after death can not only bring an element of solace to the families of the donors but the lives of desperately ill people can be saved, helped and transformed.
"Organ donation is an amazing gift that you can give to others and I would encourage everyone to sign up to the register and to also let their families know their wishes."
