More than 187,000 people in Ayrshire and Arran have declared whether they want to leave their organs behind, or not, when they die.
The new figures come from NHS Ayrshire & Arran as the organisation gets behind Organ Donation Week (26 September to 2 October).
According to NHS Ayrshire & Arran, more than 187,000 people in Ayrshire and Arran have already declared their decision through the NHS Organ Donor Register.
Everyone has a choice to be a donor or to opt out, but it’s important to record your decision and tell loved ones too.
If you do nothing, it is assumed you agree to be a donor if you die in circumstances where donation is possible, unless you are in a group for whom the law does not apply.
And even though the law around organ donation has now changed in Scotland, family members will still always be consulted before organ donation goes ahead.
Knowing your decision will make it easier for family and friends to honour it.
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When a family are approached, nine out of 10 families will agree to donation if they know their family member was on the Organ Donor Register and talked about their decision.
Ruth McMurdo, Interim Deputy Nurse Director with NHS Ayrshire & Arran said: “Only around 1% of people die in a way that makes organ donation possible meaning every opportunity for donation is precious.
“Families are always involved in the donation process and leaving them with no doubt about your wishes can make it easier to ensure your decision is honoured.
“Organ donation doesn’t tend to come up in everyday conversation but this week we are asking you to make time to think about what you want to happen, record your decision and have that important discussion with your family.
“With the increase in the number of people waiting for transplants, it’s more important than ever to register your organ donation decision and make it known to your family and friends.”
To find out more and register your decision visit www.organdonation.scot or call 0300 1232323.
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