Mayor’s dad inspires donor call

BY HAMISH HEARD
Geelong transplant recipients have joined the city’s mayor in urging locals to sign up as donors during Australian Organ Donor Awareness Week.
Mayor Bruce Harwood put his name on the list.
“Having gone through the experience of seeing the two kidney transplants my father had to endure, I’ve seen first hand the benefits that organ donation can bring, which is often a gift of life,” Cr Harwood said.
Highton’s Judy Mather, 60, said donating a kidney to her brother in 1988 was one her most rewarding experiences.
“Next year we’ll celebrate 20 years since the transplant,” she said.
Geelong kidney transplant recipient Karen Knuckey vouched for the benefits.
“These organs can ensure a patient has many more years ahead of them that they wouldn’t otherwise have,” Ms Knuckey said.
Donor registrations are available on 1800 777 203.