I wanted to make a quick blog post today to remind everyone of the importance of being an organ donor. As some long-time users know, I donated a kidney to my father back in 2000. 13 years ago today, as a matter of fact. So, I know the importance of living donor organ donation first hand. I've also coached a couple people through the process over the years as well. And, if anyone is in a position where you're thinking of donating to a friend or loved one, I'm more than happy to share my experience and advice.
There's something you can do today that won't require much on your part: signing up for the organ donor program in your state or country. In the US alone, 120,000 people are currently waiting for an organ. And becoming a donor is relatively easy (become a donor in the US). If you're not in the US, chances are there's a similar program in your country. Once registered, if something happens to you, you can leave a legacy behind by saving the lives of others.
If you'd like to do something a bit more, you can also sign up to donate bone marrow through Be The Match. Bone marrow donation can help and even cure life-threatening blood cancers like leukemia and lymphoma. You make an optional (but encouraged) donation, swab your cheek, and then wait to see if you match someone who needs a bone marrow transplant. If they do, there's a process to donation that's explained on the site. It's a bit more involved than donating blood, but since you'll be responsible for directly saving someone's life, it's worth it.
And, of course, there's always signing up to give blood. Your local blood bank or hospital will have the details on it. It's doesn't take too long, doesn't hurt much, and your single pint of blood can be used to help save up to three lives.
That's it for this quick blog post. I apologize for going off the topic of portable apps, but I wanted to share something that was important to me. And, who knows, together, we could help save the life of someone who goes on to develop new wonderful software for us all to enjoy. Yup, it's related. That's my story and I'm sticking to it.
Have a wonderful weekend and thank you for your time.
Best,
John
- John T. Haller's blog
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Comments
Canada
Great message, John. For those in Canada, Canadian Living has an article outlining how sign up as an organ donor across the country.
As for bone marrow, the OneMatch Stem Cell and Marrow Network is where to sign up for that.
Finally, Canadians can donate blood through Canadian Blood Services.
that is so true..that way we
that is so true..that way we can all be a hero,we can save lives..we can share what we have by donating.. nice post..thank you for sharing..