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This week is DonateLife Week (Sunday 28 July - Sunday 4 August 2024), and I've had the honour of speaking with Sam Stones from DonateLife Victoria. Sam shares the delicate and important work they do, helping families navigate the difficult decisions around organ and tissue donation when a loved one is dying.

In this episode, Sam walks us through the process of donation conversations, explaining how she approaches families in their most vulnerable moments.

We dive into the rarity of organ donations, the specific conditions required for someone to become a donor, and the emotional and logistical complexities involved. Sam also shares some heartwarming stories about the impact of organ donation, including the long-lasting connections between recipients and donor families.

You'll learn about the practicalities of organ donation, clear up some myths, and understand the entire process.

Sam's insights highlight the incredible generosity of donor families and the profound difference organ donation can make in people's lives.

Lynden’s story – additional details

In this episode, Samantha speaks about her dear friend Lynden, who sadly lost his life in 2023 after a 10-month battle with cancer. As Lynden was very ill, his wife Melissa was key in communicating his decision about corneal donation to medical staff, friends, family, and the Lions Eye Donation Service, also completing the necessary consent paperwork on his behalf. At the time of recording this episode, it had been almost 16 months since Lynden had passed away.  

In this episode, we discuss:

• The process of organ donation conversations with families
• The rare conditions required for organ donation to be possible
• The emotional and logistical complexities of coordinating organ donations
• Heartwarming stories of donor and recipient connections

Resources and Links:

• DonateLife Victoria
• Fiona Coote's Story
• Fact sheet provided

Thank you for tuning in, and I hope this episode helps you understand the vital importance of organ donation.

Remember; You may not be ready to die, but at least you can be prepared.

Take care,

Catherine

MY LOVED ONE HAS DIED, WHAT DO I DO NOW?

Our guide, ‘My Loved One Has Died, What Do I Do Now?’ provides practical steps for the hours and days after a loved one's death. Download it here.

SUPPORT SERVICES
If you're feeling overwhelmed by grief, find support through our resources and bereavement services here.

Contact Catherine

Business Website: https://dontbecaughtdead.com.au
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100094865491683
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/critical_info_org/
LinkedIn Business Page: : https://www.linkedin.com/company/critical-info
LinkedIn Profile: https://www.linkedin.com/in/catherine-ashton-73254528/

Podcast Editor: https://www.livvimusic.com/

Music composer: Ania Reynolds - https://www.aniareynolds.com/