Department of Health
Territorians are being encouraged to wear their favourite sporting jerseys to work or school tomorrow for Jersey Day to highlight the importance of organ donation.
DonateLife NT’s Donation Specialist Clinical Nurse Manager Shan Cairnes said Jersey Day was inspired by the story of Nathan Gremmo who tragically died in an accident in May 2015. Nathan’s family chose to give the gift of life to others to honour the legacy of Nathan’s generous personality.
“Jersey Day is all about raising awareness – there is no requirement to raise funds. Simply wear your favourite sporting jersey to school or work on Jersey Day and begin the conversation with your friends and family about organ donation,” Ms Cairnes said.
“Territorians love wearing their favourite jerseys – whether it be AFL or NTAFL clubs, NRL or NRLNT, local union teams or local football NT teams. Wear them tomorrow and have a chat about organ donation to your loved ones.”
“We want to encourage more Australians to register as donors to give someone else a second chance at life.”
Ms Cairnes said while the majority of Australians supported organ donation, not enough people were actually registered.
“So many Territorians say they are willing to donate their organs and tissues but 87 percent have yet to register online with the Australian Organ Donor Register.
“All it takes to register as a donor is a single, simple step. Registering literally takes just one minute and in that brief time you can make the ultimate difference to the life of another person.
“If you are already registered, you can do more by talking to your family and friends and telling them to register too.”
Last year four NT donors saved, or improved, the lives of 10 recipients, giving them a second chance at life.
“We acknowledge and thank those Australians and their families who have said ‘yes’ to organ donation.”
“Thousands of Australians are living their lives to the fullest because of the generosity of organ and tissue donors and their families,” Ms Cairnes said.
About 1,700 Australians are currently wait-listed for an organ transplant with another 11,000 people around the country currently requiring dialysis.
“Jersey Day is a good time to have a donation conversation with your family to ensure they are aware of your wishes and then following through by registering online.”
“Make your decision count, it is quick and easy. All you need is your Medicare card and internet access to register your donation wishes.”
To register visit www.donatelife.gov.au
