Inspiration, motivation and donation!

I woke up this morning so excited about writing today's blog entry. I was inspired by an article sent to me about an "opt~in" verses an "opt~out" system of donation. As most of us know, here in the United States we have an "opt~in" system which means a person must register and declare their wishes to be an organ donor. This puts 100% of the responsibility in the hands of the donor. It's one of those things though most people say "I will get around to it and just never do." And the fact is, less then 40% of Americans are registered to be donors and we have a massive organ shortage in this country. Today 96,676 are waiting for lifesaving kidney transplants. Everyday 18 people die waiting for an organ and every ten minutes someone is added to the "List."

So how do we fix a failing system?? We can look to see what other countries have done to increase donation rates. Many European countries have moved to an "opt~out" system. The "opt~out" or presumed consent system presumes that all individuals would consent to have their organs used for transplant. Instead of having to go out of one's way to participate, all persons would be considered donors unless they specifically object to being part of the system. This system still relies on permission from a deceased family members to use their organs. With nearly 97% donor rates in countries like Belgium and Austria this "opt~out" system has had a definite positive effect on the number of donors and transplants. And again here in the United States we have only a 37% donor rate. Why not move to an "opt~out" system? One of the biggest challenges to an "opt~out" system here in the U.S. is that some feel it could be seen as an infringement on civil freedom and liberty. But if that is the main argument against this system, then people must remember that one can always "opt~out" of the system. It always comes down to an individual's choice.


I believe that some form of  an "opt~out" donation system is the way to go here in the U.S. But we need better education on organ donation before implementing such a system or that too will fail. Regardless whether you think we should move to an "opt~out" system or not I would like to hear your opinion. Because whatever the answer may be, we need everyone to see how dire the situation is becoming. Between the number added to the "List" on a daily basis and the number losing the battle it is just unacceptable. As kidney patients, it's our job to spread the word about Organ Donation because:

My 15 year journey with CKD is my motivation for starting a conversation about organ donation. What's yours? Whatever it is, please keep it going....

 I want to thank you for joining me on this journey, I look forward to your questions, comments and concerns.

Keep on fighting all you Kidney Warriors!

~Kidney Blogger