To donate life, know their wishes. Ask them today. OK?

The 2011 Malaysia Festival is a celebration of our multicultural environment, with the emphasis of the festival on culture, diversity and enjoying life. It’s also a great opportunity to start discussing the gift of giving life and the compassionate act of giving to save another’s life.

At any one time, around 1,700 Australians are on the organ donation transplant waiting lists. Yet just one organ and tissue donor can save up to 10 lives and improve the lives of many more.

In 2010, 309 organ donors gave 931 Australians a new chance at life.

You may think you are too old or unhealthy to be a donor. Or that your religion doesn’t support organ and tissue donation. These are common myths and misconceptions.

To save a life as an organ and tissue donor, you need to let others know of your wishes and you need to know the wishes of those people close to you. Many Australians do not realise that, even if they have registered to be a donor, family consent will always be sought. The people close to you will be asked to give the final OK.

Before you make a decision about organ and tissue donation;

• Discover the facts about organ and tissue donation
• Become informed and Decide about becoming an organ and tissue donor
• Discuss you decision with the people close to you, and know each other’s wishes

No matter what you finally decide about donation, it is important that the people close to you know your decision.

Visit the national Authority’s website at www.donatelife.gov.au to Discover, Decide and Discuss today.