BERKSHIRE residents who have saved lives have been honoured posthumously for organ donation.
The Order of St John Award for Organ Donation was given to the families and loved ones of 14 donors, run in conjunction with NHS Blood and Transplant.
The awards were given at a private ceremony in The Guildhall, Windsor, one of many which honour donors with the award across the country.
NHS figures show that more than 4,000 people have donated organs after death since 2019, which has transformed or saved the lives of around 10,000 patients.
Mick Messinger, Chancellor of the Priory of England and the Islands of the Order of St John, said: “We’re delighted to be able to work with NHS Blood and Transplant to run the Order of St John Awards for Organ Donation again.
“It is so important to recognise all organ donors and it is an inspiration to meet the families attending the ceremonies.
“Organ donation saves lives, and it is a genuine privilege to be able to say thank you to these families, whose loved ones have had such an impact on others.”
Anthony Clarkson, director of organ and tissue donation and transplantation at NHS Blood and Transplant, said: “The pride families feel at these moving ceremonies truly is inspirational.
“Transplant patients tell us that organ donors and their families are heroes and the Order of St John award is a chance for us all to recognise them and their amazing contribution to society.
“We hope these awards will inspire other people in Berkshire to tell their families they want to save lives.”
He continued, explaining: “Being clear with your family about what you want makes things easier at a difficult time, leave them certain about your organ donation decision.
“Families say donation is a source of pride that helps them in their grief and we want to ensure as many people as possible have the opportunity to donate and save lives.
“Please tell your family about your organ donation decision and join the NHS Organ Donor Register at www.organdonation.nhs.uk.”
The NHS has estimated that one donor can provide medical help for up to nine other people.
In May 2020, all adults in England are considered to have consented to be an organ donor unless a recorded objection is made or they are in an exempt group, though family is always consulted.
For more information about organ donation, visit www.organdonation.nhs.uk
