We have been going through a series of tests since the discharge to be able to be placed on the heart transplant list. So far we have been told we are making great progress.
When organizing all the medical forms/documents I stumbled upon the RAMQ renewal forms (RAMQ is the Quebec medicare/provincial medical insurance for those out-of-province/country).
Food for thought, most of us don't realize it but by signing the Consent to Organ and Tissue Donation, you have an opportunity to give life or hope to those who need it most. A morbid thought but a thought to consider. Usually near our birthdays our renewal forms arrive in the mail with the consent form included as an insert and it usually arrives before the card's expiry date.
I admit that in previous years I completely overlooked that consent page. I didn't think what it would mean that far ahead or at that stage in my life but I never thought how valuable it would be for someone else.
I would not wish it on anyone, but, it is an inevitable part of reality we all must face one day anyway. That small step or decision should be made in advance in order to make a difference, a simple signature could give life.
A heart post-mortem can survive 4h until a transplant takes place. A patient could wait what seems a lifetime to find a donor and may become completely ineligible if a match is never found in time. There are other criteria to remain eligible, however, these are just some facts. Upon giving consent, one person can potentially help save up to 8 lives and help 15 other persons regain their health.
I met first hand at the MUHC Glen Site at the Royal Victoria Hospital, good people. Someone who's brother has been ill and is waiting for a kidney and another group who was waiting for her husband, his son, her friend to awake from his transplant surgery. He must have been in his early 40s. We shared in small conversation and comforted each other while connecting through similar experiences. This whole experience has opened my eyes to what a difference we can make in both our lifetime and upon our end.
It would be unfortunate to let the moment pass without taking the time to make an informed decision. Its something to think about in great detail and plan, but ultimately it is still your choice. If you are ready, click on the above photo and get started!
For more information or questions see the reference link to the RAMQ website: http://www.ramq.gouv.qc.ca/en/regie/press-room/news/2014/Pages/organ_donation.asp