Green Shirt Day- One Donation Impacts so Many – Steve Bond
On April 6, 2018, a horrific accident near Armley, Saskatchewan, shocked and horrified the nation. A northbound bus carrying players from the Humboldt Broncos was struck by a westbound semi-trailer killing 16 people and injuring 13. One of those young men was Logan Boulet, who succumbed to his injuries on April 7th. Honouring his wishes, his parents offered up his organs and saved six lives. On its own, the act is a miracle. As news of his donation spread, 150,000 Canadians were inspired to register as donors- the single largest group to become donors due to one event. It was dubbed the “Logan Boulet Effect” it inspired Green Shirt Day- a national day to bring awareness to organ donation and continue Logan’s legacy.
Organ donation can have a huge impact; up to eight lives can be saved, and 75 lives can be enhanced through tissue donation. With such a potential for good, it’s not surprising that the majority of people feel that organ donation is a good choice. According to the Trillium Gift of Life Network, 90% of people in Ontario support organ donation. Unfortunately, while we feel it’s a great idea, only 35% of those eligible to be donors in the Province have registered. Some people may think that their age or health concerns would exclude them from registering. You must be at least 16 to register. There is no maximum age or health limits. Even people with medical conditions may be donors. Each donor is evaluated on a case-by-case basis. Others might be worried that registering may impact their medical care. Registration is confidential and would only be accessed at the end of life to share the person’s wishes with their families. Still, others may feel that they are registered if they signed a donor card. Donor cards do not exist in Ontario, so it is critical to register yourself.
To register or check your donation status go to www.beadonor.ca. So on April 7th, wear a green shirt. Honour, remember and recognize the victims and families of that fatal crash. Check or confirm your donor status. Take care of yourselves and each other.
