The family of a young North East man who saved lives through organ donation after his death are sharing their story to encourage others to register as organ donors and discuss their wishes with loved ones.
Ross was just 26 when he sadly passed away following a tragic accident. Having already made the decision to join the NHS Organ Donor Register when applying for his provisional driving licence, his family honoured his wishes at the most difficult time of their lives.
His mum, Marie Parker, said: “Ross was only 26 and had his whole life ahead of him. Losing him is something no parent should ever have to face, but knowing that he was able to help other people has brought us comfort through our grief.”
Ross donated several organs and tissues, but for his family, his greatest gift was his heart.
“As parents, knowing our tragedy was going to give another family more time with their loved one meant the world to us,” said Marie. “Ross is helping save lives.”
The profound impact of Ross’s decision became even more real when Marie later met the man who received his heart.
“It was incredibly emotional,” she said. “When I placed my hand on his chest and felt Ross’s heart beating, it was a moment I will never forget. It reminded me that part of my son is still helping someone else live their life.”
While nothing can replace the son they lost, Marie says the experience reinforced the importance of organ donation and the difference one person’s decision can make.
“We all think we will have our loved ones forever, but tragedy can happen,” she said. “A simple decision to join the organ donor register could save or transform several lives.
“From one heartbroken mother to another, please think about organ donation and make your decision known. Ross’s legacy lives on because he chose to help others.”
Ross’s family hope that by sharing their story, more people will consider registering as organ donors and having conversations with their families, so their wishes are known should the unthinkable happen.
NHSBT is calling on one million people who have never registered before, to confirm their organ donation decision on the NHS Organ Donor Register this year. Confirming a decision takes two minutes and can help ensure families know exactly what their loved one wanted at the end of life.
Anthony Clarkson, Director of Organ and Tissue Donation and Transplantation at NHS Blood and Transplant, said: “We are facing one of the most challenging periods for organ donation in over a decade. The sharp decline in donors and the rising number of people waiting for a transplant need urgent action.
“We have already adapted significantly to changes in the donation environment. But. Saving lives and reducing the waiting list needs collective effort across the NHS and society.
“There is a simple action the public can take to help save lives. Please sign the NHS Organ Donor Register. Most of us would accept an organ if we needed one but opportunities to save lives are being lost because families didn’t know what their loved ones wanted. Leave them certain.
“It takes two minutes to confirm an organ donation decision on the NHS Organ Donor Register. Each donor can potentially save up to nine lives. Visit organdonation.nhs.uk, call 0300 123 23, or use the NHS App.”
