Released on September 3, 2020
www.givelifesask.ca Now Available to all Saskatchewan Residents 16 Years or Older
The Government of Saskatchewan has officially launched an organ and tissue donor registry at www.givelifesask.ca.
The registry allows Saskatchewan residents to make a formal declaration of their decision to become an organ and tissue donor. The registry has been a key part of government’s plan to modernize the province’s organ and tissue donation system and improve donation rates while reducing transplant waitlists.
“This is an important day for our government in fulfilling a key commitment to improve organ and tissue donation rates in Saskatchewan,” Health Minister Jim Reiter said. “I encourage all Saskatchewan residents to join me in registering their intent to donate and potentially one day save lives.
Organ donations save lives. One tissue donor can help 75 people, and one organ donor can save eight lives. Registering as a donor is the only secure and guaranteed way to make your decision known and any Saskatchewan resident sixteen years or older is eligible to register.
“With this organ and tissue donor registry, we have another way to support grieving families by confirming the intentions of their loved ones,” Saskatchewan Health Authority Medical Director for Donation Dr. Joann Kawchuk said. “Every person who registers increases the chance of a longer, better life for people waiting for a transplant.”
Blaine Pho is a strong advocate for an organ donation registry as another way of increasing Saskatchewan’s donor rates.
“My wife Michelle was an amazing wife and mother and when we needed her she was always there, that is what we miss the most,” Blaine said. “Michelle was diagnosed with lupus, and after 10 years of fighting this disease it left her with irreversible kidney damage. There just aren’t that many donors and it’s very difficult knowing the person you love needs a kidney and there is nothing you can do.
“It is such a gift to be able to give life. If this decision is right for you and you decide to be an organ donor, be sure to let those close to you know so your family will support your final wishes.”
To learn more about the registry, or to register to become an organ and tissue donor, visit www.givelifesask.ca.
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For more information, contact:
Colleen Book
Health
Regina
Phone: 306-787-4083
Email: media@health.gov.sk.ca
Cell: 306-537-3594
Amanda Purcell
Sask Health Authority
Saskatoon
Phone: 306-321-2562
Email: media@saskhealthauthority.ca