Organ Donation in Malaysia - Leaving a gift of life
The hottest news in Malaysia today is about this 14 year girl Tee who had been waiting for 1 year for a suitable heart. My 2 younger daughters, were so touched by her story, and they have been bugging me to register them as organ donors.
I guess it’s about time we not only leave a legacy, but the ultimate noble charity of leaving our body parts behind, to give others the gift of life. Don’t forget too, that you can also become a blood donor at anytime.
Presently 54% of all organ donors are ladies and 37% are between 21-30 years of age. In racial composition, 50% are chinese, 35% are indians and 15% malays.
Maybe to start, begin by dropping by the nearest hospital, donating some blood and picking up the donor forms for yourself and those you can influence.
Who can be a donor?
Anyone, young and old can sign up to be a donor. Individuals below 18 years of age will need parental/guardian consent.
What is organ donation?
It is the gift of ones body parts after death for the purpose of transplantation. Transplantation is an operation, which involves the replacement of diseased and defective organs & Tissues with healthy ones from donors. This treatment helps save lives of people. Organ and tissue donation is the ultimate humanitarian act of charity.
What are the organs & tissues that can be donated?
The commonly transported organs are kidneys, heart, liver, lungs and pancreas while the transplantable tissues are eyes, bone, skin and heart valves. Thus a single donor can save the lives of a number of people.
When are the organs & tissues removed?
Only when death has been confirmed by two registered doctors. The doctors involved with certification of death are not involved in the transplant operation at all.
Will my hospital treatment be affected if they know that I am a donor?
Absolutely not. The doctors will undertake every known measure to save your life right till the end. Only when they have exhausted all ways and means to save your lives will the question of organ & tissue donation be discussed with your relatives.
Are there any religious objections?
No. All the major religions of the world — Islam, Christianity, Buddhism, Hinduism and Sikhism endorse organ & tissue donation as the ultimate act of charity and benevolence.
How are the organs removed?
The process of organ and tissue donation involves a sterile surgical operation undertaken by a skilled team of surgeons. There is no mutilation or disfiguration of the body. The donor is treated with utmost respect and dignity as in any operation. Following removal of the organs and tissues, the surgical wound will be closed just as in any other operation.
What if I change my mind later?
Organ donation is voluntary and if at any point you decide against donating your organs and tissues, all you have to do is to inform your family about it and return your donor card.
Will the process of organ donation delay the funeral arrangements?
Not at all. Arrangements for funeral can be made as in any case of death. Following the removal of the organs and tissues, the body will be cleaned & draped and returned to the family within the shortest possible time. Removal of organs and tissues does not interfere with the customary funeral or burial including open casket arrangements.
How can I become a donor?
Simply complete a donor pledge form and forward the form to the National Transplant Resource Center. You will receive a registration card from the Center. Please inform your family of your wish to be an organ and tissue donor.
For further information, contact:
The National Transplant Resource Center, Hospital Kuala Lumpur
03-2615-5555 ext 6576 (Hospital KL)
or 03-26942705. National line - 1800 88 9080
God bless you and your loved ones. We can make a difference for sure.
Thank you,
Kingkraal
