Derry Mayor Brian Tierney backing organ donation week

As part of Organ Donation Week, a powerful music video has been released: A Second Dance to celebrate and give thanks to organ donors and their families who allowed others a second precious chance at life.

At present, there are around 115 people in Northern Ireland on the transplant waiting list, and last year 11 people in Northern Ireland died while awaiting an organ transplant. So while this piece acknowledges the gift of life organ donation gives, it is also a moving reminder that we still need to do more to encourage individuals to join the Organ Donor Register.

Mayor Tierney pledging his support for the initiative said in addition to joining the Organ Donation Register it is important to share your decision with family and friends. He said only around half of families agree to donation if they don’t know their loved one’s wishes and that this rises to nine out of 10 when the decision to be a donor is known.

“I was really surprised to read that while the majority of people living in Northern Ireland support organ donation and would accept an organ if they needed one, only 47% of us have signed the Organ Donor Register.

“As Mayor of Derry City and Strabane District Council I feel it is important that I do what I can to promote organ donation and help create awareness of this important issue. This year’s campaign is a very inspiring one and I have been deeply moved by the life changing difference an organ donation can make. Please take a few minutes this week to consider signing the register and giving someone the gift of life.”

Visit organdonationni.info. Further information on Organ Donation and link to the Organ Donor Register can be found at: organdonationni.info.