17 August 2009
Barnsley musical director, Mike Ryal, knows all about the life altering change, an organ donation can bring.
He spent 14 years on dialysis until he underwent a successful kidney transplant operation at the Northern General Hospital in July last year.
Now he will be supporting experts who will be dispelling the myths surrounding organ donation and transplants at an event at the Royal Hallamshire hospital next month.
Dr William McKane, Renal Services Clinical Director and Andrew Davidson, Clinical Champion for Organ Donation, for Sheffield Teaching Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, will be discussing what actually happens when an organ is donated and transplanted.
The free event, called The Gift of Life, will take place at the hospital on Tuesday, September 8, at 6pm.
It will also include a number of stands and displays from groups associated with organ donation.
People interested are asked to book as soon as possible to avoid disappointment.
Mike Ryall said: "Many people have misconceptions about organ donation and events like this are really helpful in quashing some of those myths.
"Receiving my kidney transplant gave me back my life and I treasure the gift everyday, you could one day help someone like me and going to this event is a great way to find out more."
Dr McKane said the event will hopefully do a great deal in helping people understand all the issues surrounding organ donation.
He said: "By raising awareness and engaging people in a conversation about organ donation, we can bring about a significant and lasting improvement in the number of transplants for patients here and across the UK.
"Transplants are one of the most miraculous achievements of modern medicine. But they depend entirely on the generosity of donors and their families who are willing to make this life-saving or life-enhancing gift to others.
"As one of the large teaching Hospital Trusts in the UK we have a genuine opportunity and responsibility to make a real difference to the lives of thousands of people."
For more information or to reserve a place, please contact Jane Pellegrina on 0114 271 4322 or email jane.pellegrina@sth.nhs.uk.