Organ Donation

theoretica

gettingtheresometime wrote: »

I've actually registered now that I don't want to be a donor (though I have told hubby if they ask they can have what ever bits they want) and this makes me quite sad.

Have I misinterpreted the rules and what you think you'd do?

Having just gone to the website about wales they do have the option you seem to want:

You can also appoint a representative to make the decision for you after your death.

https://www.organdonation.nhs.uk/supporting-my-decision/information-on-nominating-a-representative/

Hermia

gettingtheresometime wrote: »

Sorry guys I may have confused the issue. (and yes I do think that organ donation is a wonderful thing!)

The point I'm making is that in Wales the situation is changing; instead of being an opt in system you have to opt out. By not doing anything (either opting in or opting out) the default is that you've consented and the family aren't consulted (and yes I appreciate the sentiment that my family did anything I disagreed with after my death I'd come back and haunt them!)

Its this that I think is wrong

I think they are doing this because so many people don't register not because they don't agree with donation, but simply because they never get around to it. I expect if I asked my friends they would all say they agree with donation, but haven't got around to it. The previous opt in system just isn't working and people are dying because they can't get organs. The opt out system has been in discussion for years. I have seen it discussed in the media for as long as I remember. I expect it will become standard it many countries.

Armchair23

Sorry I have no idea about the situation in Wales. BUT..

So many of us are happy to accept a blood product or transfusion, agonise over the waiting list for an organ for ourselves, a child or loved one but never get around to realising that someone else has made the decision to make that happen.

So I think opting out should be the way forward, if you have a personal preference , a strong religious, cultural or ethical objection then it should be taken as binding. Whether that's for or anti organ donation.

Yes I agree that there are probably other and maybe better ways of going about this, but meantime I'm exceptionally grateful for the many people who are so generous and offer lives to others.

Please everyone talk about your wishes with family, there never is a 'right time' so now's as good as any.

glentoran99

theoretica wrote: »

That is my point - make people express a wish. Perhaps as part of registering with a doctor or for the NHS.

Personally, I think it would be fair if anyone who ticks the no box went several steps down the queue should they ever need a transplant themselves. Though that may well have repercussions I haven't thought of.

not practical, you cant force people to register, so you still need a solution for those that haven't gave an expression of wishes, Presumed consent is the best all round because if someone feels strongly enough they will opt out

cherryblossomzel

gettingtheresometime wrote: »

...means the family are presented with a done deal.

I've actually registered now that I don't want to be a donor (though I have told hubby if they ask they can have what ever bits they want) and this makes me quite sad.

Well, yes (to the "done deal"). It is my decision, so I don't want family to get a choice. Also: it's a tough time for a family and for them to have to make these sorts of decisions would be very difficult. This way, the choice is removed and they don't have to agonise over it. They can just deal with the grief of a loved one's passing.


I don't understand why you would unregister if you do actually want to donate? I suspect that your hubby now won't be even be asked.