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BC Organ Transplant Recipients Clean Up at XV World
Transplant Games
VANCOUVER - Six BC organ transplant recipients brought home 11 medals, eight of them gold, from the World Transplant Games, which were held in London, Ontario, between July 16th and July 24th. Ten BC residents were among the more than 2,000 organ transplant recipients, from 55 countries that competed in the Games.
The youngest medal winner was six year old, Jack Palmer, a heart transplant recipient from North Vancouver, who won a bronze medal in long jump competition.
Susan Harrison, a liver transplant recipient attended her first Transplant Games, and ran away with three Gold medals, in various track events, including the 3km run. "I was running for my donor. I trained for two years for the 3km run and my motivation was the person that had given me a new life," she says. "As transplant recipients, we want to show the kind of life that donors have given back to us. If only every donor family could see the spirit of the participants, they would see the value of organ donation."
The following are BC medal winners
Susan Harrison,
Port Moody 3 gold
Margaret Benson, North Vancouver 2 gold and 1 bronze
Dick Lingham, Coquitlam 2 gold
Marvin Meissner, Port Moody 1 gold
Carrie Jung, Vancouver 1 silver, 1 bronze
Jack Palmer, North Vancouver 1 bronze
The World Transplant Games is held every two years, and is organized so that
performances of transplanted athletes can show the world the success of transplantation,
and to pay tribute to donors who have made these achievements possible. The
first World Games were in held in 1978, in Portsmouth, England. Vancouver
played host in 1993. Thailand will host the 2007 World Transplant Games.
For more information on the BC Transplant Society, or to register on BC's Organ Donor Registry, please visit www.transplant.bc.ca or call 604.877.2240.
- 30 -
The BC Transplant Society, an agency of the Provincial Health Services Authority, was established in 1986 as a comprehensive health care organization responsible for all aspects of organ transplantation in BC. It is the only integrated delivery system for organ transplant services in North America.
To arrange an
interview with one of the participants, please contact:
Ken Donohue
Communications Specialist
(604) 877.2240
News Release
For Immediate
Release
April 15,
2005
What Are You Waiting For?
Vancouver - In BC, hundreds of people are waiting for a life-saving
organ transplant. April 17 to 24th is National Organ and Tissue Donor Awareness
week and the BC Transplant Society (BCTS), an agency of the PHSA, is asking
you to save a life and register your decision.
Based on a recent public opinion survey, 85% of British Columbians said they support organ donation and intend to register their decision, yet only 13% of you have done so.
The demand for organs continues to outpace the supply, and with an aging population and more people suffering end stage organ failure, the need for organ transplants will only continue to increase. With continued advancements in medical treatment, as well as improved safety features such as airbags and helmet laws, fewer people are dying in ways that make solid organ donation possible. Good news for most of us, but for those waiting for a life saving transplant, it means fewer organs and longer waits.
The BC Transplant Society continues to expand upon this province's donation programs through innovative living donor options and enhanced research. BCTS' living related donor program continues to improve, increasing the number of kidney and liver transplants possible. As well, BCTS is the first program in North America to fully research and launch a clinical pilot into Living Anonymous Donor (LAD) kidney transplantation - looking at the feasibility and long term donor outcomes when a stranger donates a kidney to a person they do not know nor will ever meet.
BC's organ donor registry was introduced in 1997, and replaced all previous methods of indicating one's intent to become an organ donor, including the Driver's license and CareCard decal programs. The registry gives individuals four different choices, including the option not to donate. It is important to register because it ensures that an individual's decision is recorded, and saves the family from making a difficult decision at an already traumatic time.
The chances that
you will require an organ transplant far outweigh the odds that you will ever
be a potential organ donor. Register today at www.transplant.bc.ca or call
1-800-663-6189. It doesn't matter which organ you give you'll get someone's
heart in return.
-30-
For more information or to be connected with a patient waiting or recent recipient please contact:
BCTS Communications
604-877- 2240
1-800-663-6189
www.transplant.bc.ca
|
News Release January 5, 2005 BC's
Organ Donor Registry celebrates 500,000th registrant, Vancouver - The British Columbia Transplant Society (BCTS) registered the 500,000th (12.5% of population) British Columbian on the Organ Donor Registry at the close of 2004, with 30,000 new registrations received in 2004. While this is a much anticipated milestone, it still falls far short of the 85% of British Columbians who have said they support organ donation and intend to register their decision. "It's important that we acknowledge the half-million British Columbians that have taken the time to register their decision," says Bill Barrable, BCTS Provincial Executive Director. "It would be great if more British Columbians would take a few moments to register their decision…it's one of the greatest things they can do for themselves and potentially someone else." Organ transplant activity remains steady in BC with 206 people receiving transplants in 2004 up slightly from 202, the year previous. However, despite our best efforts, 20 British Columbians waiting for a life-saving transplant did not get a second chance, and died before receiving a donor organ. With increased safety measures such as seat belts, airbags and bicycle helmets resulting in a new and distinct mortality profile, BC's number of deceased donors has seen a gradual decline over the last decade. Despite this trend, the BC Transplant Society has continued to pursue other donor options in order to meet the increased demand for organ transplants. Highlights for the year include BC performing the first two living anonymous kidney transplants in Canada, with eight more scheduled before the completion of the ongoing clinical pilot. These transplants are made possible through the altruism of healthy people who donate a kidney anonymously to a complete stranger. The donors will be followed post donation to determine long term medical and psycho social outcomes as well as long term feasibility of this type of donation. While the increased number of transplants performed in 2004 is encouraging news there are still over 400 people awaiting a solid organ transplant in BC. Registration takes five minutes and may be the most worthwhile five minutes you spend. You can register your decision electronically at www.transplant.bc.ca or by calling 1-800-663-6189 for more information. The British Columbia Transplant Society is affiliated with the University of British Columbia and is an agency of the Provincial Health Services Authority. -30- Sally Greenwood |
|
BC
Transplant Society performs Canada's first VANCOUVER - The BC Transplant Society (BCTS) has performed the first two Living Anonymous Donor (LAD) transplants in Canada. This province wide program is the culmination of four-years of comprehensive research into the practical and ethical implications of living anonymous donation (donating a kidney while alive to a stranger). Forty-three potential LAD candidates who contacted the BCTS on their own volition completed questionnaires, and took part in a two-hour interview to assess psychological health, psychosocial suitability, commitment, and motivations to donate. Almost half of these candidates passed stringent criteria to be considered as potential LAD candidates. "To think about this from a theoretical perspective is impressive, but to actually see these people step forward, be assessed, and donate to someone they don't know is inspiring," says Antonia Henderson, BCTS research psychologist. On the strength of these results, the BCTS formulated policy and decided to proceed with LAD transplants in the context of a clinical pilot study. The objective of this study is to confirm that LAD kidney transplantation is a safe and economically viable strategy to further increase the supply of organs available for transplantation. Recipients of LAD kidneys will be those next in line on the wait-list for a kidney from a deceased donor. It is expected that these potential recipients would have exhausted all possibilities of bringing forward their own living donor. "I have been on dialysis and waiting for a transplant for seven years," says a grateful recipient of a LAD transplant "Being off dialysis is huge. I'm feeling better, and this will allow me to return to work." Two LAD
transplants have been performed so far, with another nine potential
candidates being assessed. Several other donors, who were more than
willing to give, were evaluated, but were deemed medically unsuitable
according to our criteria. A decision on whether to implement an ongoing Living Anonymous Donor program will be made after the completion of the clinical pilot. LAD is not intended to solve the current organ shortage, but to provide one more means of expanding the donor pool. Currently more than 300 British Columbians are waiting for a kidney transplant, while more than 500 others are on dialysis and waiting to be assessed for a transplant. Transplants are cost-effective. For those with kidney disease, the average cost of dialysis treatment is $50,000 a year. By comparison, the one-time cost of a kidney transplant is approximately $20,000, with an additional yearly cost of $6,000 for anti-rejection medications. This research
was supported through an unrestricted grant by Fujisawa Canada. The BC
Transplant Society was established in 1986 as a comprehensive health
care organization responsible for all aspects of organ transplantation
in BC. It is the only integrated delivery system for organ transplant
services in North America, and is an agency of the Provincial Health
Services Authority.
|
| November
15, 2004
VANCOUVER - Did you know that 14 North Shore residents are currently waiting for an organ transplant? Did you know that over the past 10 years, more than 95 people in West and North Vancouver have received a second chance at life when they received an organ transplant? And did you know that only 12% of British Columbians, and 16% of North Shore residents, have registered their decision on BC's Organ Donor Registry? In an effort to increase the awareness of organ donation, and to encourage more people to register on the Organ Donor Registry, the British Columbia Transplant Society (BCTS) has teamed up with the three North Shore communities to bring North Shore Organ Donation Week November 29 to December 3, 2004. All civic employees will receive an organ donor registration form, and will be encouraged to complete and return it during the Organ Donation Week. Local businesses are also being asked to get involved by running a registration campaign with their employees and customers. The BC Transplant Society is running an ad in the North Shore News on Sunday, November 28th, and an insertion of the organ donor registration form on Wednesday, December 1st. When it comes to registering, North and West Vancouver residents are slightly above the provincial average, but fall well short of some communities where 30% of citizens have registered. The mayors of the three North Shore communities and transplant patients from the area could be available should the News want to arrange interviews or a photo to kick-off the week. While more than 80% of people surveyed in BC support organ donation, only 12% have indicated their decision on the organ donor registry. Registration takes five minutes and may be the most worthwhile five minutes you spend. You can register your decision electronically at www.transplant.bc.ca or by calling 1-800-663-6189 for more information. The British Columbia Transplant Society is an agency of the Provincial Health Services Authority. -30- Contact information: Ken Donohue
|
| September
24, 2004
The Society would like it known that it does not directly solicit the public for money, via telephone or door to door. Individuals should not give any money or credit card information to anyone claiming to represent the BC Transplant Society. If someone calls soliciting money for organ donation, people should ensure the organization is a registered charity, and be comfortable with their donation. Individuals should report suspicious phone calls or solicitations to their local police or the BC Transplant Society. If you
have any further questions please contact the BC Transplant Society
at - 30 - To register
your decision regarding organ and tissue donation, please visit www.transplant.bc.ca
or call 1-800-663-6189 for more information. |
| April
20, 2004
Public Service Announcement Give Something Valuable to a Total Stranger VANCOUVER - The BC Transplant Society (BCTS) wants you to take action and register as an organ donor. This week (April 19-24, 2004) is National Organ and Tissue Donor Awareness Week across Canada and to mark this occasion BCTS volunteers will be on hand to register you and your family at two great locations. The first display is at Granville Island Market from Thursday, April 22 to Sunday, April 25 from 9 AM to 6PM daily in the Food Court of the Market. Everyone who registers will be given a green ribbon to wear showing your support for organ and tissue donation. Not only will the ribbon make you feel good it will allow you a 10% discount from 25 generous merchants who have pledged their support to this important initiative. If Granville Island isn't in your plans then you can drop by the London Drugs at Granville and Georgia between 9:30 AM and 5:30 PM April 22-24th, where more volunteers will be waiting to assist you in your registration. We encourage everyone to register. It's the greatest gift you can give - the gift of life. And it's so easy to do; it only takes a moment. So please register yourself and your whole family. It's truly a great feeling, and no matter which organ you give, you'll get someone's heart in return. The registry gives individuals four different choices, including the option not to be a donor. It is important to register because it ensures that an individual's decision is recorded, and saves your family from having to make a difficult decision at an already traumatic time. The chances that you will require an organ transplant far outweigh the odds that you will ever be a potential organ donor. Register today to be an organ donor and live on. For more
information or to register visit www.transplant.bc.ca or call 1-800-663-6189. |
| January
13, 2004 BC Legislature Leads Organ Donor Registration VICTORIA - Health Services Minister Colin Hansen launched an organ donor registration campaign with the BC Transplant Society at the legislature today. The event marked the kick-off of a provincial campaign by the BC Transplant Society to help raise awareness and ensure the public are better informed about the process for registering as a potential organ donor. "Currently, there are over 400 British Columbians waiting for life-saving or life-enhancing organs, and another 650 waiting for a cornea transplant," said Hansen. "An organ transplant depends entirely upon the generosity of donors and their families. The circumstances are by definition tragic, yet this unselfish act helps others," said Hansen. "To date, just 12 per cent of British Columbians have registered their decision on BC's Organ Donor Registry. Our goal is to bring that up to 17 per cent. We are lending our support to this important program to help grieving families and save lives. I would like to ask everyone to please give careful thought to becoming an organ donor. The decision you make today may help save lives in the future." "The registry ensures that one's decision is honoured, like a living will or advanced directive. It also offers the family solace, because they don't have to make a difficult decision at an already difficult time," says Bill Barrable, provincial executive director, BC Transplant Society. The demand for organs far outpaces the supply. Last year, 29 British Columbians waiting for a life-saving transplant did not get their second chance, and died before receiving a donor organ. Wait times for organ and tissue transplants depend entirely on organ donation and the availability of organs for transplant. For more information, or to register electronically, visit www.transplant.bc.ca. organ donor registration forms are also available from any London Drugs, ICBC Driver Services Centre, and VanCity Savings Credit Union, or by calling the B.C. Transplant Society at 1-800-663-6189. -30- Media
contact:
|
| January
2, 2004 Increased number of transplants in BC still fall short of need VANCOUVER - The British Columbia Transplant Society (BCTS) increased the number of organ transplants performed in 2003 to 202, up from 189 in 2002. However, despite our best efforts, 29 British Columbians waiting for a life-saving transplant did not get their second chance, and died before receiving a donor organ. With increased safety measures such as seat belts, airbags and bicycle helmets resulting in a new and distinct mortality profile, BC's number of deceased donors has seen a gradual decline over the last decade. Despite this trend, the BC Transplant Society has continued to pursue other donor options in order to meet the increased demand for organ transplants. "The BC Transplant Society recognized the need for other viable donor sources several years ago", explains BCTS Communications Director, Sally Greenwood. "Since 1998, the number of living related kidney transplants has increased by nearly 100%." Currently, Canada only performs living donor transplants between donors and recipients who have a pre-existing relationship with one another, but BCTS has been aggressively pursuing research into the option of living anonymous donation (LAD). "After four years of comprehensive clinical and psycho-social research, we have determined that there are people in society who, for truly altruistic reasons, would like to donate a kidney to help a stranger. So, in early 2004, BCTS will begin a clinical pilot to determine long term feasibility and patient outcomes, "explains Greenwood. In addition to living kidney transplants, BC also introduced a living liver donor program in 2001 and continues to offer this as an option for those individuals with end stage liver disease who have a loved one willing to donate a portion of their healthy liver. While living
donation has provided new options for those awaiting transplants, it
is not the only reason BC's numbers have increased. In partnership with
the Vancouver General Hospital/ Vancouver Coastal Health Authority,
the BC Transplant Society/Provincial Health Services Authority began
BC's first pancreatic islet cell program to assist in the treatment
of type 1 diabetes for some patients. To date, seven patients have received
islet transplants and continue to live insulin free. While the increased number of transplants performed in 2003 is encouraging news there are still over 400 people awaiting a solid organ transplant in BC. While 85% of people surveyed in BC support organ donation only 12% have indicated their decision on the organ donor registry. Registration takes five minutes and may be the most worthwhile five minutes you spend. You can register your decision electronically at www.transplant.bc.ca or by calling 1-800-663-6189 for more information. The British Columbia Transplant Society is affiliated with the University of British Columbia and is an agency of the Provincial Health Services Authority. -30- Contact information: Sally Greenwood
|
| December
17, 2003 Local Transplant Recipients Say Thanks on Behalf of BC Transplant Society VANCOUVER - Santa Claus isn't the only one preparing to make some important deliveries this holiday season. The BC Transplant Society (BCTS), too, is busily gearing up for its annual, "Operation Popcorn." In the coming weeks, organ transplant recipients will be delivering big, decorative tins of popcorn to hospitals throughout the province to thank the many doctors, nurses and lab specialists who perform a difficult, but crucial role in the organ donation process. Operation Popcorn began more than 15 years ago, but it was only in the last few years that transplant recipients began delivering the popcorn. "Operation Popcorn allows us to thank hospital staff for the work they do," says Ralph Alexander, a 11-year heart transplant recipient. "They can see the positive results that come from organ donation and transplant…it is such a thrill for them to see us each year." This valuable program allows BCTS to illustrate the success of transplantation while acknowledging the important contribution medical professionals make in the donation process. Without the support of BC's hospital personnel, organ donation and transplantation would not be possible. This year, close to 200 British Columbians have benefited from the gift of life. More than 400 British Columbians are currently awaiting a life-saving or life-enhancing organ transplant. While surveys suggest that 85% of British Columbians support organ donation and intend to register, only 12% have done so. It is important that all British Columbians register their decision on BC's Organ Donor Registry. You can do so by logging on to www.transplant.bc.ca or by calling the BCTS at 1-800-663-6189. For
more information on the schedule for recipients to deliver popcorn to
your local hospital, please contact Lisa Despins or Ken Donohue at
The BC
Transplant Society, an agency of the Provincial Health Services Authority,
was established in 1986 as a comprehensive health care organization
responsible for all aspects of organ transplantation in BC. It is the
only integrated delivery system for organ transplant services in North
America.
|
| August
19, 2003 BC
transplant recipients win medals at
Maria McKenzie, a Burnaby resident and kidney transplant recipient, competed in her first World Games, and won a bronze medal in race walking. "The games are a celebration of life," says McKenzie. "Life is what binds the competitors, and hopefully, through sport and the Transplant Games, we can show people the importance of organ donation." Margaret Benson, a double-lung transplant recipient from North Vancouver, won three medals, including a gold, in various track events, and echoes McKenzie's sentiments on the importance of the Games and the celebration of life. "Competing in the Games and enjoying life wouldn't be possible without the incredible gift that organ donors have given us. This is one way we can honour and thank them," Benson says. Kidney recipient, Marvin Meissner, of Port Moody, earned a gold medal in the ball throw competition, and silver in bowling. The World Transplant Games is held every two years, and is organized so that performances of transplanted athletes can show the world the success of transplantation, and to pay tribute to donors who have made these achievements possible. The first world games were in held in 1978, in Portsmouth, England. Vancouver hosted the games in 1993, and Canada will again play host when the 2005 World Transplant Games are held in London, Ontario. For more information on the BC Transplant Society, or to register on BC's Organ Donor Registry, please visit www.transplant.bc.ca or call 604.877.2240.
The BC
Transplant Society, an agency of the Provincial Health Services Authority,
was established in 1986 as a comprehensive health care organization
responsible for all aspects of organ transplantation in BC. It is the
only integrated delivery system for organ transplant services in North
America.
|
| June
17, 2003 BC
Transplant Society First Program in Canada to Develop
The first step is an enhancement of the existing comprehensive screening process already in place. The BCTS has expanded its donor medical and social history questionnaire to capture relevant information related to travel and medical symptoms linked to WNV. Travel history, linking potential donors to endemic regions during peak periods (summer months), will now be investigated to rule out any possibility of WNV prior to initiation of the organ recovery process. In addition, questions will also be asked that help identify the symptoms of WNV. In the second step, BCTS and the BCCDC have been working collaboratively to ensure new medical laboratory tests are in place to screen all BC organ donors for WNV. Two tests will be used, one to detect antigen (a specific fragment of Nucleic Acid of the virus) and the other to detect whether antibodies have been produced against the virus, thus identifying an earlier WNV infection. These tests can be completed in a timely fashion ensuring there is no delay in donor organ recovery and subsequent recipient surgeries. This ongoing commitment to new test development and time sensitive screening is imperative to the safety and ongoing success of the organ transplant program in BC. WNV is
transmitted to humans through bites by infected mosquitoes that can
become carriers through biting infected birds. The virus is not spread
by direct person-to-person contact, or from animal to human. Eighty
percent (80%) of people bitten by an infected mosquito will never become
ill or show any symptoms of infection. Twenty percent (20%) of people
infected develop mild flu-like symptoms lasting less than one week.
Fewer than1% develop serious health problems such as encephalitis or
meningitis (inflammation of the brain or its lining). The new screening process for organ donors has been developed to ensure that those people who may have had WNV, but never developed symptoms or had flu like symptoms that may have gone undetected, are caught. In the case of the 1% of people who develop serious problems, these symptoms would already preclude them from ever becoming an organ donor. For more information or to register as an organ donor in BC, please visit www.transplant.bc.ca or call 1-800-663-6189. -30- The BC
Transplant Society was established in 1986 as a comprehensive health
care organization responsible for all aspects of organ transplantation
in BC. It is the only integrated delivery system for organ transplant
services in North America.
|
|
Run
or volunteer for your life and support the BC Transplant Society VANCOUVER - On Saturday, July 19th, the Vancouver Island Relay, a 10 stage-running race will once again be held. This one-day relay starts in Courtenay, and follows the scenic island highway [oceanside route] for 120km to Nanaimo. Runners
and volunteers are needed to ensure a successful event. There are a
number of volunteer positions available. Organizers of the event wish
to raise the awareness of organ donation and have chosen the BC Transplant
Society as its charity of choice. Runners are being encouraged to bring
completed organ donor registration forms to the relay. If you would like to volunteer, please contact Sherri Wade at 250.753.3245 ext. 2649, or e-mail: swade@pacificsport.com. For more information on how you can register a team in the relay, please visi www.vancouverislandrelay.com
Ken Donohue
|
| April
17, 2003
75%
of British Columbians say they intend to register as an
The chances that you will require an organ transplant far outweigh the odds that you will ever be a potential organ donor. Register today to be an organ donor and live on. For more
information or to register visit www.transplant.bc.ca or call 1-800-663-6189.
|
|
April 17,
2003
The
BC Transplant Society and The Sutton Place Hotel VANCOUVER - The Sutton Place Hotel is ready to hold its 1st BC Transplant Drive-Thru For Life Breakfast aimed at increasing organ donor registration and awareness. The event will be held on Wednesday, April 23rd, 2003 at the AAA Five Diamond rated hotel. In support of National Organ and Tissue Donor Awareness Week, April 21-27, 2003, BC Transplant Society and The Sutton Place Hotel have teamed up with sponsors, 96.9 JACK FM, The Vancouver Sun, Vancouver Province, Café Classics, Neptune Food Services, Rainbow Press and Venice Bakery to provide the public with gourmet-to-go breakfast bags. "Driving Thru for Life" has been designed to educate people about organ donation and how in BC, one's driver's license decal is no longer enough to indicate one's decision to be an organ donor. BC's Organ Donor Registry gives individuals four different choices, including the option not to be a donor. It is important that all British Columbians register regardless of their decision. Currently, there are more than 400 people in BC awaiting organ transplants, and an additional 500 awaiting corneal transplants. Only 10% of British Columbians have registered on the Organ Donor Registry. To increase registrant numbers, Breakfasts-to-go will be offered to the local community who drive, walk or run through the hotel's front driveway. From 6:00am to 9:30am, join the BC Transplant Society and 96.9 JACK FM on location for this life saving event. The general public is encouraged to have their personal information ready for one of the many volunteers that will be serving up breakfast when they register. Monetary donations are NOT needed; just registering with the society is enough. In addition to a great healthy breakfast, a variety of prizes will be hidden randomly in breakfast bags. Give the gift of life on April 23rd; join in the drive-thru for life at The Sutton Place Hotel. -30-
Ken Donohue
Sabrina
Pokomandy
|
| April
17, 2003
The
BC Transplant Society, The Q FM 100,3 and Thrifty Foods VICTORIA - The Q FM 100.3 is co sponsoring Victoria's 1st BC Transplant Drive-Thru for Life Breakfast aimed at increasing organ donor registration and awareness. The event will be held on Friday, April 25th, 2003 at the THRIFTY FOODS located at Quadra & McKenzie. (101-3995 Quadra Street). In support of National Organ and Tissue Donor Awareness Week, April 21-27, 2003, BC Transplant Society, The Q FM 100.3 and Thrifty Foods have teamed up with other prize sponsors to provide the public with breakfast-to-go. "Driving Thru for Life" is designed to educate people about organ donation in BC. The driver's license decal is no longer valid as a way to indicate one's decision to be an organ donor. Registering with BC's Organ Donor Registry ensures that an individual's decision is recorded, and saves the family from making a difficult decision at an already traumatic time. The Registry gives individuals four different choices, including the option not to be a donor. It is important that all British Columbians register regardless of their decision. Currently, there are more than 400 people in BC awaiting organ transplants, and an additional 500 awaiting corneal transplants. Only 10% of British Columbians have registered on the Organ Donor Registry. To increase registrant numbers, Breakfasts-to-go will be offered to the local community who drive, walk or run through the Thrifty Food's parking lot. From 6:00am to 9:00am, join the BC Transplant Society and The Q FM 100.3 on location for this life saving event. The general public is encouraged to have their personal information ready for one of the many volunteers that will be serving up breakfast when they register. Monetary donations are NOT needed; just registering with the society is enough. In addition to coffee and muffins, a variety of great prizes will be randomly awarded. Give the gift of life on April 25th; join in the drive-thru for life at Thrifty Foods. -30- For further information contact: Ken Donohue
Teresa
Koroll
|
|
February
20, 2003
BC
Transplant Society asked to take new VANCOUVER - Due to yesterday's announcement about the BC Ear Bank at St. Paul's Hospital, the Ministry of Health has asked the British Columbia Transplant Society (BCTS), an agency of the Provincial Health Services Authority, to oversee the development of a plan for quality control and regulatory compliance for all of the province's tissue banks. BCTS has had no previous jurisdiction over tissue banking in BC, but has long standing expertise in the area of solid organ donation and transplantation. The BC Transplant Society is prepared to take responsibility for quality control and regulatory compliance for all tissue banks in B.C. and pleased that the Ministry of Health recognizes its safety record and excellent patient outcomes in solid organ donation. "Taking
responsibility for ensuring tissue banks meet high standards makes sense
for us given our experience in managing and coordinating the province's
solid organ transplants, and we look forward to taking the lead on this
important issue," said Bill Barrable, Provincial Executive Director,
BCTS. "Patient safety and positive outcomes have always been our
primary focus and as such we have always adhered to strict testing protocol
and guidelines." Hundreds of British Columbians are currently awaiting life-saving organ transplants and without the ongoing support of the public through our Organ Donor Registry and living donation, these patients will die. The British Columbia Transplant Society is committed to ensuring best practices and outcomes for all of our patients - and we will do our utmost to ensure these same standards are applied to tissue banking in BC. In 2000, the BCTS was recognized for its outstanding quality and best practices when the National Quality Institute awarded it with the Canada Award for Excellence. - 30 - |
| February
5, 2003
Living Anonymous Donors: Lunatic or Saint? VANCOUVER - "Living Anonymous Donors: Lunatic or Saint?", is the title of a comprehensive BC Transplant Society (BCTS) research study that was recently accepted for publication in the American Journal of Transplantation. The results of the multi-phase study seem very promising for the future of living anonymous donation. "We are excited by the study results," says Antonia Henderson, PhD, one of the lead researchers. "The study has revealed that a significant number of sane and altruistically motivated individuals are willing to donate a kidney anonymously while alive. Our findings reveal that these generous people would not only donate a kidney to someone they do not know, nor will ever meet, but that they would do so and expect nothing in return." Policy guidelines about living anonymous donation have been developed and a clinical pilot study, directed by the BCTS, is scheduled to begin in April. These guidelines recommend that potential recipients would have exhausted their living-related donor options before being eligible for a kidney from an anonymous donor. This initiative
is part of the Society's multi-pronged approach to organ donation. The
overall objective is to provide the health-restoring benefits of organ
transplant services to those British Columbians who meet the suitability
and eligibility criteria for transplantation in BC. The results of this work have left the researchers convinced that there exists a potential alternative donor source, which allows us to move forward with living anonymous donation. "It has been an inspiring and humbling experience to talk to people who are so selflessly motivated," says Henderson. "It restores one's faith in humanity." - 30 -
|
| September
26, 2002
BC Transplant Society performs first pediatric heart transplant and 200th heart transplant VANCOUVER - On September 4, 2002, the BC Transplant Society, an agency of the Provincial Health Services Authority, celebrated two milestones when it performed the first pediatric heart transplant, and the 200th heart transplant in BC. Routinely, pediatric patients needing a heart transplant are sent to an out-of-province transplant centre specializing in pediatric heart transplants; however, in this particular case, the patient, a four-year-old girl suffering from cardiomyopathy, was too unstable to be transferred. The 11-hour transplant operation was performed at B.C.'s Children's Hospital by a surgical team led by Dr. Anson Cheung, surgical director of heart transplantation at St. Paul's Hospital, and Dr. Suvro Sett, a cardiac surgeon at B.C.'s Children's Hospital. This transplant surgery illustrates the positive results of collaboration between institutions and programs. "The transplant was a success in part because of the cooperation of the Heart Transplant Program at St. Paul's, B.C.'s Children Hospital, and the BC Transplant Society, " says Dr. Anson Cheung. "This was a very unique situation, which thankfully had a positive outcome. The BC Transplant Society's Heart Transplant Program and its medical team are proud of this 200th transplant milestone and will work hard to improve upon it in the years to come." The first heart transplant in BC was completed at Vancouver General Hospital, in December 1988. After eight years, the Heart Transplant Program moved to St. Paul's Hospital in 1996, so it could be a part of the newly formed, Heart Centre. On average, 15 people receive heart transplants each year in BC. To date, 13 heart transplants have been performed in 2002. Of the 200 heart transplants performed in BC, 110 were done at Vancouver Hospital, before the program moved to St. Paul's Hospital in 1996.The graft survival rate for BC heart recipients after five years is 79 per cent, which compares favourably to the national average of 73 per cent; proving that heart transplants provide recipients with a long lasting, quality of life. - 30 -
|
| February
14, 2002
100th Lung Transplant in British Columbia Recognized VANCOUVER- The British Columbia Transplant Society (BCTS) performed its 100th lung transplant, in 2001. To recognize this milestone many lung transplant recipients and BCTS representatives came together for a recognition reception, on February 14th, 2002. Lung transplants, historically one of the lowest numbers of transplants completed due to the fragility of the donor organ, were up by over 100% in the year 2001. In 2000, six lung transplants were performed while in 2001 10 single and five double lung transplants were completed. This notable increase is due to improved donor identification as well as donor quality - two key factors in the transplant process. "Our lung transplant rates and results last year were exceptionally good," says Dr. Robert Levy, Medical Director of the BCTS Lung Transplant Program. "BC might have a relatively small lung program, but we have very good clinical outcomes and first rate results." The BC lung transplant program is nationally recognized for its clinical and research excellence in the field. The first lung transplant in BC was performed in 1989, when one single lung and three heart-lung transplants were done. The following year, BC's first double lung transplant was performed. Due in part to a substantial increase in lung transplants, the BC Transplant Society performed an overall record number of solid organ transplants in 2001. The total of 218 organ transplants surpassed a record high, set in 2000, by nearly ten percent. Today, 450,000 British Columbians have registered their decision to be organ donors. While the record number of transplants performed in 2001 is encouraging news there are still over 400 people awaiting a life-saving transplant in BC. You can register as an organ donor electronically at www.transplant.bc.ca or by calling 1-800-663-6189 for more information. The British Columbia Transplant Society is affiliated with the University of British Columbia and is part of the Provincial Health Services Authority. -30- Contact information: Sally Greenwood
|
|
January
3, 2002
BC
recognizes new solid organ transplant record VANCOUVER - The British Columbia Transplant Society (BCTS), performed a record number of solid organ transplants in the year 2001. This year's total of 218 organ transplants surpassed last year's record high by nearly ten percent. With increased safety measures such as seat belts, airbags and bicycle helmets, BC's number of cadaveric donors has seen a decrease over the last several years. However, with the addition of living organ donation as a viable option, BC's transplant numbers have continued to increase, thus reducing wait times for both potential kidney and liver recipients in many cases. "The British Columbia Transplant Society recognized the need for other viable donor sources several years ago", explains Sally Greenwood, BCTS Communications Director. "Although we performed our first living kidney transplant in 1976 we began focusing on this as a viable option in the mid 1990s. Since 1998, the number of living kidney transplants has increased by nearly 100%." 2001 also saw BC perform its first living liver transplant, with four completed before year-end. Currently, Canada only performs living donation transplants between donors and recipients who have a pre-existing relationship with one another, but the BCTS is researching the possibility of expanding this option to include living donation between strangers. This groundbreaking study, due to be complete by the end of 2002, may provide further expansion of the donor pool. While living
donation has provided new options for those awaiting transplants, it
is not the only reason BC's numbers have increased. The number of suitable
organs per donor was up this year, resulting in more transplant recipients
per donor. Another bright spot in this year's transplant totals was
the incredible increase in lung transplants over year's past. Lung transplants, historically one of the lowest numbers of transplants completed due to the fragility of the organ, were up by over 100% in the year 2001. In 2000, six lung transplants were performed while in 2001 10 single and 5 double lung transplants were completed. This notable increase is due to improved donor identification as well as donor quality - two key factors in the transplant process. Today, 450,000 British Columbians have registered their decision to be organ donors. While the record number of transplants performed in 2001 is encouraging news there are still over 400 people awaiting a life-saving transplant in BC. You can register as an organ donor electronically at www.transplant.bc.ca or by calling 1-800-663-6189 for more information. The British Columbia Transplant Society is affiliated with the University of British Columbia and is part of the Provincial Health Services Authority. -30- Contact information: Sally Greenwood
|
| September
7, 2001
BC’s
unions mobilize to reduce transplant waiting times with drive to VANCOUVER - BC’s union movement today pledged to contact at least 250,000 of its rank-and-file members in the next 12 months to urge them to register as organ donors, in a drive to reduce the length of time the more than 469 British Columbians must wait for transplants. "There is a chronic shortage of hearts, lungs, livers and kidneys for transplant in BC," said B.C. Federation of Labour President Jim Sinclair. "Many of those on the waiting list will die waiting if we don’t act. "We’ve decided to take the organizational resources we use to negotiate for our members and mobilize them to help the hundreds of British Columbians whose life could be extended with an organ transplant." "This new partnership with the B.C. Federation of Labour is the largest single institutional commitment ever made to the BC organ donor program," said Bill Barrable, Chief Executive Officer of the BC Transplant Society. "It’s unprecedented in this province or across Canada to have such a major commitment from such a large organization." "One out of every four potential organ donors is lost because the individual did not register their decision nor did they share their decision with their loved one," Barrable said. "We have 450,000 registered donors now, but if we succeed in adding even a fraction of the province’s union members to that list, there could be a potential increase in transplants and a reduction in wait times." During the next 12 months, Federation affiliates will distribute the BC Transplant Society’s organ donor registration forms to more than 250,000 union members in regular union mailings. The Federation speaks for 475,000 union members in the province, but is targeting those in the largest unions in the first phase of the program. Shop stewards and union staff will be urged to follow up in the workplace where possible. Special promotional posters, many featuring union members who are organ recipients, will be put up on union bulletin boards in workplaces across the province. The filled-out forms, which can be returned postage-paid directly to the BC Transplant Society, have been coded to allow both partners to evaluate the success of the program. "We expect to receive about five percent of the registration forms we send out by conventional distribution channels," Barrable said. "Our hope is to double, triple or quadruple that return rate as a result of the drive the Federation has undertaken. That will have an enormous impact on our registry." -30- For more
information: |
| June
8, 2001 St.
Paul’s Hospital Performs 1,000th Kidney Transplant VANCOUVER
- On June 2nd, St. Paul’s Hospital, part of Providence
Health Care, celebrated a milestone when it performed its 1,000th
kidney transplant. The first was performed at St. Paul’s Hospital 15
years ago. The
dramatic rise in the number of living kidney transplants over the past
five years has helped the hospital reach this figure. “The only reason
we have been able to achieve this landmark is due to increased living
donation,” says Dr. David Landsberg, a Medical Director with the BC
Transplant Society and Nephrologist at St. Paul’s Hospital. Within
the last two years the number of living kidney transplants in British
Columbia has increased by nearly 100%. In 1998, there were 43 living
kidney transplants-in 2000, that number jumped to 81-just over half
being performed at St. Paul’s. Because
Canada is one of the safest and healthiest countries in the world, the
number of cadaveric transplants has decreased significantly over the
past decade. As such, living kidney transplants now outnumber cadaveric
kidney transplants. “We need to continue to increase the amount of living
kidney transplants,” says Dr. Landsberg. “One positive step is for the
government to begin providing better financial support to living donors,
including, covering out of pocket expenses and Employment Insurance
coverage.” While
great strides have been made in the area of living donation, there is
still a great need for British Columbians to register on the Organ Donor
Registry. Registration forms are available at all London Drugs, ICBC
Driver Services Centres, most doctors’ offices, or by calling the BC
Transplant Society directly at 1-800-663-6189. Electronic registration
is also available by visit the BC Transplant Society’s website at <www.transplant.bc.ca>
-
30 - The
BC Transplant Society was established in 1986 as a comprehensive health
care organization responsible for all aspects of organ transplantation
in BC. It is the only integrated delivery system for organ transplant
services in North America. The Society funds, manages and coordinates
all organ transplant services across the province. It funds and coordinates
10 regional outpatient transplant clinics in Vancouver, Fraser Valley,
Prince George, Kamloops, Penticton, Kelowna, Trail and Victoria. The
Society also conducts transplant research and delivers professional
and public education related to organ donation and implements Universal
Referral and Training Legislation. In
2000, the BCTS was awarded the Canada Award for Excellence by the National
Quality Institute. Contact:
Sally
Greenwood
|
| March
26, 2001 BC
Transplant Society halfway through groundbreaking Living
kidney donations have taken place in BC since 1976, but in all cases
the donor and recipient were either blood-related or emotionally related,
such as a spouse or close friend. An adult living liver program in BC
was established this year. In an effort to increase the number of organs
available for transplantation, the BC Transplant Society (BCTS) embarked
on this groundbreaking research. “Living anonymous donation is not commonly performed
in the United States,” says Lainie Ross, MD, PhD, a Pediatrician and
leading authority on anonymous living donation. “There are some serious
ethical issues surrounding this type of donation, and great care must
be taken in the solicitation of potential donors, and the allocation
of any organs.” Ross is the Assistant Director for the MacLean Center for Clinical
Medical Ethics at the University of Chicago. The BC Transplant Society is hopeful the study
will identify the process and framework in which to establish a Living
Anonymous Donor program in British Columbia. Safeguards must be in place
to protect both the donor and recipient, and to prevent the commercialization
of organs and coercion of organ donors. The first phase of the study will be published
in Summer 2001. Subsequent reports will be submitted for publication
over the coming year. -30- To
register your wishes regarding organ and tissue donation please visit
www.transplant.bc.ca or call 1-800-663-6189
for more information. The
BC Transplant Society was established in 1986 as a comprehensive health
care organization responsible for all aspects of organ transplantation
in BC. It is the only integrated delivery system for organ transplant
services in North America. The Society funds, manages and coordinates
all organ transplant services across the province. It funds and coordinates
10 regional outpatient transplant clinics in Vancouver, Fraser Valley,
Prince George, Kamloops, Penticton, Kelowna, Trail and Victoria. The
Society also conducts transplant research and delivers professional
and public education related to organ donation and implements Universal
Referral and Training Legislation. In 2000, the BCTS was awarded the Canada Award for Excellence by the National Quality Institute.
|
January
31, 2001
Record
200 Organ Transplants Performed Due to Living Donors
VANCOUVER–
Thanks to a record number of living donor kidney transplants, the British
Columbia Transplant Society (BCTS) was able to perform a record 200
organ transplants in the year 2000. Due
to a growing wait list and a decreasing number of suitable cadaveric
donors, the BCTS has placed a strong focus on living kidney donation
over the past several years. This option of living kidney transplant
has recognized close to a 100% increase over the last two years. Up
from 43 in 1998 and 72 in 1999, the 81 living transplants performed
in 2000 is an indication that living donation is rapidly becoming the
most viable option for kidney transplants. During
the same three-year period cadaveric kidney donations have gone from
a low of 53 to a high of 68 ending in a drop to 60 this past year. This
further illustrates the increasing transplant gap that is being witnessed
as the number of people in need of a life-saving transplant continues
to grow while the number of suitable organ donors continues to decrease
despite the improved efficiency of organ recovery. With
an aging population, safer roads, improved safety features such as airbags
and helmet laws, as well as improved trauma surgery; the medically suitable
cadaveric organ donor pool in BC is declining. While the BCTS and partner
acute care hospitals continue to strive to maximize the cadaveric donor
rate it has also developed and implemented a strategy to ensure that
other donor options are explored. In
a three-pronged approach to organ donation, BCTS continues to work at
improving that cadaveric donor rate with new referral legislation and
improving the consent rate through the organ donor registry, but it
is also seeking to improve the living donor rate through both its living
kidney and living liver programs. Partnered with a study into Living
Anonymous Donation, expanding the donor pool has become an important
priority. In
a study released late last year, BC was recognized for its increasing
rates of living donation. It performs a proportionately high percentage
of Canada’s living donor transplants. While it makes up 13% of Canada’s
population 19% of the nation’s live donor transplants are performed
in the province. “BCTS
is responsible and accountable for organ donation and transplantation
in BC”, says CEO Bill Barrable. “As such we have a responsibility to
provide British Columbians with programs that will ensure them a chance
at a life-saving transplant. In this case we have recognized a need
for alternative donor pools and have thus chosen to increase our promotion
of and performance of living donor transplants when appropriate.” With
538 people currently awaiting an organ transplant in BC and 459 of those
in need of a kidney, living donation is the only alternative option
to reducing the waiting list and getting people off dialysis. Over a
five-year period, dialysis costs the health care system $275,000; compared
to a kidney transplant and anti-rejection drugs, which for the same
period costs only $65,000. This savings of $ 210,000 per person is a
significant benefit to the taxpayer and frees up much needed health
care resources for other services. While
living donation is an alternative for some people awaiting kidney and
liver transplants it is not a viable option for those in need of a heart,
or pancreas. To this end it is imperative that British Columbians register
their wishes on BC’s Organ Donor Registry where they have four choices,
including an option not to be a donor. Registering ensures that your
wishes will be known and respected and saves family members from having
to make a difficult decision at an already difficult time. To
register your wishes regarding organ and tissue donation please visit
www.transplant.bc.ca or call 1-800-663-6189 for more information. -30- The
BC Transplant Society was established in 1986 as a comprehensive health
care organization responsible for all aspects of organ transplantation
in BC. It is the only integrated delivery system for organ transplant
services in North America. The Society funds, manages and coordinates
all organ transplant services across the province. It funds and coordinates
10 regional outpatient transplant clinics in Vancouver, Fraser Valley,
Prince George, Kamloops, Penticton, Kelowna, Trail and Victoria. The
Society also conducts transplant research and delivers professional
and public education related to organ donation and implements Universal
Referral and Training Legislation. In
2000 the BCTS was awarded the Canada Award for Excellence by the National
Quality Institute. Contact: Sally
Greenwood |
| August
3, 2000
BCTS Calls for Support of Living Organ Donors VANCOUVER – In a continuing effort to improve organ donor rates in British Columbia the BC Transplant Society (BCTS) is recommending consideration of some form of tax credit or expense reimbursement to living organ donors. With the knowledge that cadaveric organ donation is steadily declining due to improved safety measures, trauma surgery, and an aging population, the BCTS has focused much of its energy into increasing living donation. Currently, BC only considers emotionally related or blood related individuals for living donation. However, in November 1999 the BCTS launched a two-year study into the feasibility of developing a Living Anonymous Donor program. Initial results of this study indicate that the expense associated with living donation is a key barrier to this type of donation. Prior to accepting a candidate for living donation, individuals must travel to Vancouver for extensive medical evaluation. Once assessed and accepted for living donation, they must then return for the surgery and remain off work for up to eight weeks. Expenses such as travel and accommodation while in Vancouver are borne entirely by the donor, but the BCTS would like to explore options to alleviate these prohibitive costs. “One of the biggest obstacles to donating a kidney, are the costs incurred,” says Prince George nephrologist and Transplant Clinic Director, Dr. John Dufton. “It would improve transplant rates and help families enormously if the out-of-pocket expenses that these donors incur when agreeing to donate a kidney to someone who is currently on dialysis could be reimbursed,” he adds. In an effort to reduce hospital and recovery time to the donor, the BCTS will be offering laparoscopic or “keyhole” surgery for living kidney donation in the fall. This minimally invasive technique will allow living donors to experience a much less painful surgery and reduce the recovery time from the usual six to eight week period down to two weeks – a time period much more manageable and cost-effective. However, this technique alone is not enough. Tax credits for out of pocket expenses and some form of incentive or support for employers who allow for their employees to take this type of paid leave are suggestions that may provide much needed support, and perhaps overcome, some of the most difficult impediments to this public service. In addition to the human benefit, the savings achieved from removing patients from dialysis is in the order of $200,000 per patient over a five-year period. Considering BC’s current wait list of 572 patients, 500 of those waiting for a kidney, and the wait time estimated at seven to nine years for a cadaveric kidney, the cost-effectiveness of transplantation is evident.
|
| April
25, 2000
Organ Donation...It's Living Proof VANCOUVER
- On Wednesday, April 26th, from 11:30 am to 2:30 pm, sounds
of life will resonate from the Vancouver Art Gallery. You’re invited
to join and celebrate the gift of life as the British Columbia Transplant
Society (BCTS) holds its inaugural Organ Donor Registration sign-up
event. Meet and talk with
transplant recipients, people awaiting transplants, and donor families
as they share their remarkable stories. Less
than one percent of all deaths result in potential solid organ donation
in BC and with improved safety measures and trauma surgery this donor
pool continues to diminish. But you can help. Register your wishes today
on BC’s Organ Donor Registry. The
British Columbia Transplant Society is committed to providing the best
donor strategy possible in order to meet the needs of all British Columbians
who require a life-saving transplant. Through the registry, new legislation,
improved professional training and living donor programs the BCTS continues
to work towards this reality. |
| December
6, 1999 BC
Transplant Society Studies Living Anonymous Donation VANCOUVER -
In an effort to increase the number of organs available for transplantation,
the BC Transplant Society (BCTS) is embarking on potentially ground
breaking research into Living Anonymous Donation. Living
kidney donations have taken place in BC since 1976, but in all cases
the donor and recipient were either blood-related or emotionally related,
such as a spouse or close friend. A 1997
BCTS public opinion survey analyzing public attitudes towards organ
donation found that 32% of respondents would be willing to donate a
kidney to a stranger. It is this finding, together with occasional unsolicited
offers of a kidney from members of the public that has provided the
impetus for the BCTS to research the concept of Living Anonymous Donation.
On
average, the BCTS receives one to two calls per week from people offering
to donate a kidney to a stranger. “Our goal now is to determine if these
people, once they understand what is involved in the donation process,
exist in large numbers and if so, what motivates them,” say Co-Investigators,
Drs. Antonia Henderson and Monica Landolt. The
results of this study will not be available for three to four years
and it should not in any way dissuade someone from pursuing living related
or emotionally related kidney donation. At this time, it is not a replacement
for the cadaveric kidney program, but it does represent an exciting
time in the realm of organ donation and transplantation. “This
is the first study of its kind in the world. If it reveals what we hope
in three to five years it may be possible to eliminate our waiting list
entirely for all but heart transplantation, without resorting to xenotransplantation
(animal to human transplants). It may also lead to a whole new level
of public involvement in organ transplantation, “ says Bill Barrable,
BCTS, CEO. It
is now possible to safely and successfully transplant kidneys, partial
lungs and partial livers from living donors. These innovative procedures
are critical to those people currently waiting for transplants as the
demand for organs continues to outweigh the supply. With only one percent
of all deaths suitable for potential solid organ donation the traditional
organ donor pool is very small. Currently, 560 British Columbians are awaiting a life-enhancing or life-enhancing transplant. Of those, 508 are on dialysis and waiting for a new kidney. For more information on this study or to register to be an organ donor please call the BC Transplant Society at 1-800-663-6189. Contact:
Sally Greenwood
|
| October
13, 1999
Ultimate Heroes Honoured VANCOUVER - In a moving ceremony, on October 12th, Garde B. Gardom, Q.C., BC's Lieutenant Governor, presented donor recognition medals to families of loved ones who donated organs in 1998. Organized by the British Columbia Transplant Society (BCTS), this second annual Donor Recognition Ceremony, recognizes and honours those who give the ultimate gift - the gift of life. Held at Cecil Green Park at the University of British Columbia, donor families came together to remember their loved ones and to pay tribute to those individuals who gave selflessly so that others may live. Unfortunately, the transplant waiting list continues to increase while the donor rates remain as low as 14 donors per million. Over 560 British Columbians are awaiting a life-saving transplantation. With the implementation of new legislation and professional training, a computerized and accessible registry and the development of a living kidney donor program, the BCTS is working to improve these dismal rates. Please sign up on the Organ Donor Registry today. If you have a decal on your driver's license you are not registered on this new system. Registration forms and informational brochures are available at: · London
Drugs The BCTS was established in 1986, directs, delivers or contracts for all organ transplant services across BC. For more information on organ donation and transplantation please call 1-800 663-6189. Contact:
Sally Greenwood
|
| September
8, 1999
BC Transplant Society calls on Federal Government to Introduce Comprehensive National Organ Donor Strategy VANCOUVER - Currently, 3,500 Canadians are waiting for organ transplants, more than 550 of those are from British Columbia. Sadly, up to 30% of those waiting for a heart, lung, or liver will die before an organ becomes available. Canada continues to have one of the lowest organ donor rates of any industrialized country, with an average of 14 donors per million, which is less than that achieved in states such as Pennsylvania and Florida, where rates average between 30 and 40 donors per million population. "One of the reasons why we have one of the lowest rates is because we don't have a national strategy, and a system to support the public's overwhelming support of organ donation," says Bill Barrable, CEO of the B.C. Transplant Society. "This isn't a problem that affects just one province, it affects all Canadians." Due to this worsening crisis, the British Columbia Transplant Society is calling on the Federal Minister of Health, Allan Rock, to immediately launch a national public education and public relations campaign, which will: 1) Educate the public on the need for organs for transplant 2) Direct them to a "transplant" website designed to provide information relating to such things as: a) the procedure and process to register their consent for organ donation in their province or region. b) Definitions and criteria for brain death c) Selection and allocation criteria for transplant d) Actual survival rates and costs of transplantation e) Information to dispel persistent and misleading myths surrounding organ donation and transplantation There is already significant private and public sponsorship willing to help with such an initiative, with little or no direct costs to the taxpayer. Such a website could be developed and maintained by the Canadian Institute for Health Information (CIHI), or the proposed Canadian Transplant Network. The B.C. Transplant Society also asks the Minister of Health to immediately provide incentives to the provinces to introduce mandatory referral and training programs, similar to those implemented across the United States, late last year. The US National Organ Donation Initiative requires that all families be offered the option of organ and tissue donation, by specially trained requestors, for all persons dying in all US hospitals. "Canada's organ donor crisis won't go away anytime soon unless we implement concrete strategies to solve it," says Barrable. "We need to recognize that this is a national public health issue, much like the federal government did in the United States, and turn this crisis around." Pioneered in Pennsylvania, the mandatory referral and training program has achieved excellent results, and is now being implemented in British Columbia. After only three years, organ donor rates in Pennsylvania increased by nearly 50%, and remain one of the highest in the world. "If introduced Canada-wide, this program would go a long way at increasing the number of organs available for transplant, and would lessen the social and economic costs associated with thousands of Canadians waiting for transplants," says Barrable. The British Columbia Transplant Society (BCTS), established in 1986, directs, delivers or contracts for all organ transplant services across BC. For more information on organ donation and transplantation please call 1-800 663-6189. Contact:
Sally Greenwood
|
| June
16, 1999
200,000 British Columbians Registered as Organ Donors British Columbia - June 15, 1999, the British Columbia Transplant Society (BCTS) officially registered the two hundred thousandth British Columbian on its Organ Donor Registry. In October 1997, the BCTS introduced a new computerized registry to record the wishes of organ donors in B.C. This new registry, the first of its kind in Canada, replaces all previous ways of recording one's wishes, including signing up through your Driver's License or Care Card. "The biggest challenge we face," says Bill Barrable, CEO of the BCTS, "is educating people that the organ donor decal on your Driver's License or CareCard is not enough. If people want to become organ donors they must fill out an Organ Donor Registry card and send it back to the Transplant Society." While the BCTS is pleased that 200,000 British Columbians have registered, it represents only 5 per cent of the population. Research shows that an overwhelming majority of Canadians support organ donation, yet in British Columbia only a small percentage of people have signed up. The demand for organs far outpaces the supply. What makes this an especially pressing situation is that only 1 % of all deaths can result in potential solid organ donation. Currently, there are over 550 British Columbians waiting for life-saving or life-enhancing organs. Sadly, many of them will die waiting. In an effort to increase organ donor rates, the BCTS, and the provincial government, recently introduced a new initiative called Universal Referral and Training. At the heart of this are two provisions. First, all hospitals in British Columbia with ventilators will be required to report all deaths, up to and including age 75 to the BCTS for assessment. Second, specialized healthcare professionals will be trained to approach families of potential organ donors in a caring and respectful manner. These "Designated Requestors" will ensure that all British Columbians are given the opportunity to be organ and tissue donors. "We are confident that Universal Referral, coupled with the Organ Donor Registry, will significantly boost organ donor rates," says Barrable. "When a similar initiative was introduced in Pennsylvania five years ago, their donor rates jumped nearly 50 per cent. We are hopeful the same will happen in British Columbia." Canada has one of the lowest organ donor rates of any industrialized country, with an average of 14 donors per million. That compares with the U.S. average of 21 per million, and Pennsylvania at over 30 per million. Organ Donor Registration Cards are available from any London Drugs, ICBC Drivers Service Centre, and Van City Credit Union, or by calling the B.C. Transplant Society at 1-800-663-6189.
Contact:
Sally Greenwood
|
| April
16, 1999
Your Driver's License Decal is No Longer Enough British Columbia - April 18th to 25th marks National Organ Donor Awareness Week. There are currently 548 people waiting for an organ transplant in British Columbia with the demand for organs far outweighing the supply. The British Columbia Transplant Society (BCTS) is challenging all British Columbians to talk about organ donation with their families and to give "The Gift of Life" and sign up on BC's Organ Donor Registry. In October 1997, the BCTS launched a new organ donor registry replacing all previous ways of recording your wishes. Your driver's license decal is no longer enough. To register to be an organ donor in British Columbia you must complete an organ donor registration card and mail it back to BCTS, in the postage paid envelope provided, for processing. No one is too old. Individuals under the age of 19 must have a parent or guardian's consent. Forms are available at all London Drugs, Driver Service Centres (Motor Vehicle Branches), ICBC Autoplan Brokers, VanCity Credit Unions and through the BCTS. Currently, Canada has one of the lowest organ donor rates in the western world. At a rate of 13 donors per million population, Canada's rate falls well below the US average of 21 donors per million and compares even more poorly to states such as Pennsylvania where there are 30 donors per million. During Organ Donor Awareness Week please take a moment to talk to your loved ones about the possibility of organ donation. Consider that one donor can change the lives of forty people - forty people can have a second chance at life and sight through the generosity of one donor! Consider that the chances are far greater that you will one day require an organ transplant than you will of ever becoming an organ donor. Only 1% of all deaths in British Columbia will result in organ donation. To be considered for organ donation one must die of brain death - the irreversible cessation of all activity in the brain. Those who die from cardiac death are not eligible organ donors, but they are eligible tissue, bone and cornea donors. Unfortunately, over 30 percent of all people waiting for an organ transplant in British Columbia will die - waiting. It does not have to be this way. Please think about the greatest gift you can make - The Gift of Life. Share your wishes with your family. Register today and give someone a better tomorrow. For more information please call the BC Transplant Society at 1-80-663-6189 or visit our web site at www.transplant.bc.ca Contact:
Sally Greenwood
|
| April
15, 1999
Bringing Post Transplant Care Closer to Home Lower Mainland - On Monday, April 19,1999 at 9:00 am, Minister of Health, the Honourable Penny Priddy, will officially open the Newton Transplant Clinic in Surrey. In 1989, to better meet the needs of patients, the British Columbia Transplant Society (BCTS) began opening regional clinics throughout the province for post transplant ambulatory care outside the lower mainland, incorporating local resources in Victoria, Kamloops, Kelowna, Prince George, Penticton and Trail. This helped to reduce the cost and inconvenience for patients and families who were not Lower Mainland residents. More recently, demographic data was used in the planning of two new clinics in the Fraser Valley. An analysis of data was done on all post-transplant patients and based on these results, two clinics were established in the Fraser Valley in 1998, the Newton and Langley clinics. These clinics, the first off-site (not attached to a hospital) clinics to be established in BC, were opened to further enhance the services and to promote maximum patient rehabilitation and reintegration into the community. This meant opening two clinics in the region to better meet the needs of patients living in the Fraser Valley. Clinics such as these are paramount as they enable people to receive post transplant care closer to home, thus reducing their travel time to and from treatment and thus reducing costs. Currently the Newton clinic serves 44 patients and the Langley clinic serves 39, with more using the facility every day. April 18-25 is recognized as National Organ Donor Awareness Week. The British Columbia Transplant Society would like to remind all British Columbians that the demand for organs currently far outweighs the supply. There are currently 548 people waiting for an organ transplant in BC. The new Organ Donor Registry, established in October 1997, replaces all previous ways of recording your wishes. Your Driver's License and CareCard decals are no longer enough. Please pick up an Organ Donor Brochure and Registration Card at any London Drugs, ICBC Driver Service Centre (Motor Vehicle Branch), ICBC Autoplan Broker or VanCity Credit Union or call the BCTS at 1-800-663-6189. Talk to your family about your decision and mail the completed card back to the BCTS in the postage paid envelope provided. Please Give Life. Register today and ensure someone a better tomorrow. Contact:
Sally Greenwood Newton
Clinic Address:
|
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Organ
Transplant Research Awarded $165,000 by VANCOUVER - The BC Transplant Foundation (BCTF) and the BC Health Research Foundation (BCHRF) recently awarded a total of $166,874 in research grants to four British Columbia transplant researchers. Dr. Adeera Levin, of St.Paul's Hospital, has received $55,534 to continue examining ways of reducing the impact of transplant waiting times on patient outcomes. Dr. Stephen Chung, of Vancouver Hospital, was granted $43,000 for his study examining the liver's potential role in reducing the rejection of transplanted organs. Both Dr. Levin and Dr. Chung were also recipients of last year's BCTF/BCHRF transplant grants. There are also two new grant recipients this year. Dr. Robert Levy, of the University of BC, was awarded $20,340 to develop an optimal anti-rejection treatment regimen for lung and heart-lung transplant patients. Dr. Alice Mui, also from the University of BC, received a prestigious research scholar award for outstanding new investigators that provides salary support for four years. In addition, she received an operating grant of $48,000 to support her studies into the cellular and molecular actions of two closely related immune system regulators that have opposite effects on the rejection rates of transplanted organs. "We are pleased to be able to increase our support of transplant research and equally impressed with the caliber of submissions we received," said Mr. Bill Barrable, CEO of the BC Transplant Foundation. "Through our partnership with BCHRF we hope to continue improving the quality and quantity of transplant research conducted here in British Columbia. In doing so, we hope to fulfill our vision to be international leaders in organ donation, transplantation, and research ensuring our patients and families improved quality of life." Dr. Dick Whitney, Executive Director of the BC Health Research Foundation, believes that the partnership between the BCTF and the BCHRF will result in further innovations in transplantation, strengthening British Columbia's role in helping transplant patients and bolstering BC's growing global reputation in this field. For more information contact: Judy Finch,
Program Manager
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| February
25, 1998
BC Transplant Foundation and The BC Health Research Foundation Awards $148,000 in Funding to Organ Transplant Researchers VANCOUVER - The BC Transplant Foundation (BCTF) and the BC Health Research Foundation (BCHRF) recently awarded a total of $148,000 in three grants to local transplantation researchers. Dr. Adeera Levin (St. Paul's Hospital) has received $55,000 to examine ways to reduce the impact of transplant waiting time on patient outcomes. Dr. Jean Shapiro (Vancouver Hospital) has received $50,000 to evaluate a new drug which can prevent osteoporosis in kidney transplant patients, and Dr. Stephen Chung (Vancouver Hospital) was granted $43,000 to study the liver's potential role in reducing rejection of transplanted organs. "We're very pleased to have struck this new partnership with the BCHRF and are delighted to see it has resulted in an unprecedented number of proposals for transplant research," said Bill Barrable, CEO of the BC Transplant Society. The BC Health Research Foundation received eight applications, and was able to support three. "It's a really encouraging indicator of what is to come with regards to our collaboration in support of transplant research in this province," added Mr. Barrable. Two past projects funded by the BCHRF have already put this province on the map with regards to transplantation. Dr. Eric Jamieson's work regarding heart and lung transplantation and preservation of donor organs has extended the time span during which a recovered organ can be transplanted - a lifesaver for transplant recipients worldwide. Also, Dr. Karim Qayumi's studies uncovered the effectiveness of different drugs, alone and in combination, in preventing damage to transplanted organs when blood is returned to the organ after transplantation, which has led to better clinical outcomes. Dr. Dick Whitney, Executive Director of the BCHRF, is also pleased with these results. "This partnership between the BCTF and the BCHRF is exciting. It strengthens our ability to nurture innovative health research in transplantation, and ensures that the money available goes to projects of the highest caliber, due to the BCHRF's comprehensive peer review process." The partnership between the BCTF and the BCHRF should result in further innovations in transplantation, strengthening British Columbia's role in helping transplant patients, and bolstering BC's growing global reputation in this field. For more
information contact:
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| October
23, 1997
New Organ Donor Registry First of its Kind in Canada Vancouver, British Columbia - October 23, 1997. The Ministry of Health and the British Columbia Transplant Society today announced the launch of a new Organ Donor Registry (ODR) for the province of BC. The first of its kind in Canada, the ODR will be administered by the BC Transplant Society (BCTS) with funding by the Ministry of Health and private sector partners. "The new registry will be an important step forward in organ transplantation in BC," said the Hon. Joy MacPhail, Minister of Health. "It is our expectation that this new system will help to reduce the chronic shortage of organs, tissue and corneal grafts available for transplant." The computerized registry will replace all previous ways for individuals to record their wishes for organ donation, including signing up for organ donation through a BC Driver's Licence or CareCard. To register, individuals must fill out a registration card and mail it to the BCTS in the postage-paid envelope. This information will then be scanned into the computerized registry. "The current need for organ donations in British Columbia far outweighs the number of organs available for transplant," said MacPhail. "Each year there are more than 350 people awaiting organ transplants and an additional 900 awaiting corneal transplants. In BC, up to 25 per cent of people waiting for a solid organ transplant die on the waiting list." A pilot program for the new registry was conducted in April 1997. The pilot program proved that the Organ Donor Registry was an extremely effective way of creating awareness about organ donation and encouraging people to sign up. During the program, the number of people who said yes to organ donation increased by 50 per cent. "The Organ Donor Registry is a secure, legal and confidential way to record your wishes for organ donation," said Bill Barrable, Chief Executive Officer of the BC Transplant Society. "It will offer a number of benefits, including timely access to information for health care professionals." When a health care professional identifies a potential donor, they call the registry with their access code to determine if that person has registered with the ODR. If that person has registered, they will receive a faxed copy of the registration card that can be presented to the family. All hospitals will have authorized fax numbers for accessing the system and built in security checks. "The new registry has been made possible thanks to the cooperation and funding from numerous individuals, organizations and the government," explained Barrable. "The transplant recipients who are featured in our communication materials are excellent examples of the success of transplantation and are key in creating awareness about organ donation." Registration cards are available at all Motor Vehicle Branches and London Drugs stores. They will also be included with all future BC Medical Services Plan CareCard mailings. The BC Transplant Society is a provincially funded health organization that supports the needs of transplant patients and families. It provides leadership for all solid organ transplant services in BC including: pre-transplant assessments; organ recovery and donor matching; and follow-up care at regional clinics across the province.
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2009
December 18,
2009
Life-Saving
Transplant Programs Go Platinum! (PDF)
BC Transplant is pleased to celebrate two significant milestones-the 20th
anniversary of both the liver and the lung transplant programs in BC.
September
17 , 2009
Mayor
Robertson kicks-off Vancouver Organ Donor Awareness Campaign (PDF)
Only 15 per cent of Vancouver's residents have registered on the BC Organ
Donor Registry, which is lower than the provincial average of 17 per cent,
according to Mayor Gregor Robertson.
August 14,
2009
BC
transplant recipients travelling Down Under for World Transplant Games (PDF)
A great sense of excitement is in the air for six BC transplant recipients
gearing up to participate in the 17th World Transplant Games from August 22-30th
on Australia’s Gold Coast.
July 22, 2009
Put
sibling rivalry aside - you never know when you might need a kidney
(PDF)
Of the 1,133 living donor kidney transplants performed in BC since the
start of the program in 1976, 382 or 34%, are donated by siblings. The next
highest are parents, spouses, and unrelated individuals (friends, co-workers)
each at 16%.
April 24, 2009
Recycle
Yourself - Event April 24th (PDF)
In addition to recycling your bottles, cans, and paper, did you know you
can also recycle your organs? BC Transplant wants you to know you don't have
to go to waste when you're gone-donate your organs-recycle yourself.
April 20,
2009
National
Organ and Tissue Donor Awareness Week - April 19 - 26 (PDF)
You can save a life in three minutes... Organ donor registration rates vary
largley across BC's communities, how does your community stack up?
April 20,
2009
Langley
Takes Organ Donation Seriously (PDF)
Coinciding with National Organ and Tissue Donor Awareness Week, Mayors Green
and Fassbender of the Township and City of Langley kicked off a week long
organ donor awareness campaign.
January 7,
2009
Another
record-setting year for organ transplants in BC (PDF)
BC Transplant,
an agency of the Provincial Health Services Authority, announced today that
a record 266 transplants were performed in British Columbia in 2008--the third
consecutive record-setting year. A record 47 liver transplants were also performed.
2008
December 10, 2008
Transplant
Recipients POP in to Say Thanks (PDF)
On December 11th, transplant recipients will again board the Express (generously
donated by Pacific Coach Lines) for a special delivery of popcorn to a number
of Lower Mainland hospitals.
December 2,
2008
BC
Heart Recipient Alive, Kicking and Running 20 years post transplant
(PDF)
Celebrating this success story and more on the 20th Anniversary of Heart
Transplantation in BC
BC Transplant, an agency of the Provincial Health Services Authority,
and the Providence Heart + Lung Institute at St. Paul’s Hospital are
pleased to celebrate the 20th anniversary of the heart transplant program
in British Columbia. Through continued innovation, and collaboration, over
325 life-saving heart transplants have been performed in British Columbia.
October 23,
2008
BC
Transplant Celebrates 40th Anniversary of Province's First Organ Transplant
(PDF)
Organ transplantation has come a long way and saved many lives since its beginnings
in 1968. The first organ transplant - a kidney - was performed at Vancouver
General Hospital on Oct. 24, 1968
August 20,
2008
Canadian
Athlete, First Heart Recipient to Race in Penticton Ironman (PDF)
Canadian, Dwight Kroening, will be the first heart transplant recipient to
compete in the Subaru Penticton Ironman-racing on August 24th, 2008
August 6, 2008
Organ
donation helps families of donors says new BC study (PDF)
New research shows psychological benefits to families of organ donors
A new BC research study recently published in Clinical Transplantation
provides compelling evidence to suggest that families of deceased organ donors
actually benefit from the knowledge that their loved one donated their organs.
August
1, 2008
BC
transplant recipients heading East to compete in the Canadian
Transplant Games (PDF)
Four transplant recipients from British Columbia are gearing up to participate
in the Canadian Transplant Games, which is taking place in Windsor, ON, from
August 4-9.
June 26, 2008
BC
First Province in Canada to Introduce Digital Signature Technology to Online
Organ Donation Registry (PDF)
BC Transplant partners with Recombo to uphold donation decisions
while streamlining registration process
BC Transplant, an agency of the Provincial Health Services Authority, and
responsible for all aspects of organ donation and transplantation in British
Columbia, today announced it has become the first province in Canada to offer
an online, legal organ donor consent system incorporating digital signature
technology from Vancouver-based Recombo Inc.
April 25, 2008
Driving
the Coast to save lives…organ donor registration tour rolls through Sechelt
(PDF)
In support of
National Organ Donor Awareness Week, BC Transplant's second annual Traveling
Organ Donor Registration Tour rolls through Sechelt on Sunday, April 27th,
from noon to 6:00 PM, at Extra Foods.
Driving
the Coast to save lives…organ donor registration tour rolls through Powell
River (PDF)
In support of
National Organ Donor Awareness Week, BC Transplant's second annual Traveling
Organ Donor Registration Tour rolls through Powell River on Saturday, April
26th, from noon to 6:00 PM, at Safeway.
April
24, 2008
Driving
the Island to save lives…organ donor registration tour rolls through
Campbell River (PDF)
In
support of National Organ Donor Awareness Week, BC Transplant's second annual
Traveling Organ Donor Registration Tour rolls through Campbell River on Thursday,
April 24th, from noon to 5:00 PM, at Thrifty Foods.
April
22, 2008
Driving
the Island to save lives…traveling organ donor registration tour rolls through
Port Alberni (PDF)
In support of
National Organ Donor Awareness Week, BC Transplant's second annual Traveling
Organ Donor Registration Tour rolls through Port Alberni on Wednesday, April
23rd, from noon to 6:00 PM, at Safeway.
April
21, 2008
Driving
the Island to save lives…traveling organ donor registration tour rolls through
Nanaimo (PDF)
In support of
National Organ Donor Awareness Week, BC Transplant's second annual Traveling
Organ Donor Registration Tour rolls through Nanaimo on Tuesday, April 22nd,
from noon to 6:00 PM, at the Thrifty Foods (Longwood Station). Nanaimo MLA,
Leonard Krog will join local organ transplant recipients at noon to kick-off
the event.
April 16, 2008
Get
a breakfast-to-go…and save a life (PDF)
Victoria's 4th
drive-thru for life event is coming to the Cloverdale and Quadra Thrifty Foods,
on Monday, April 21st, from 6:00 am to 10:00am. Local transplant recipients
will be joining 100.3 The Q!'s Ed Bain and Cliff LeQuesne live on location.
Driving
the Island to save lives…traveling organ donor registration tour rolls through
Duncan (PDF)
Mayor Phil Kent
will be joined by local transplant recipients at Duncan City Hall on Monday,
April 21st, at 3:00 PM, as BC Transplant's Organ Donor Registration Tour rolls
through Duncan.
February
25, 2008
TELUS
flies in to assist in organ transport
TELUS corporate jet used to support life-saving transplant operations
(PDF)
Due to a temporary shortage of planes available for hire by BC Transplant
late last week, TELUS provided its corporate jet to BC Transplant's donor
coordinators and doctors involved in organ recovery. The jet transported organs
used in seven life-saving operations.
February
6, 2008
Record
breaking year for transplants in BC (PDF)
BC Transplant, an agency of the Provincial Health Services Authority,
announced today that a record 262 transplants were performed in British Columbia
last year -- more than in any other previous year.
Kamloops
Sets New Record for Organ Donation (PDF)
Royal Inland Hospital broke a 16 year record for their organization with a
600 per cent increase in organ donors, providing new life to 26 people, announced
Kamloops MLA Claude Richmond and Kamloops-North Thompson MLA Kevin Krueger.
Kelowna
Sets New Record for Organ Donation
(PDF)
Kelowna
General Hospital broke a 20 year record for their organization with an increase
of almost triple in organ donations, providing new life to 40 people, announced
Kelowna-Lake Country MLA Al Horning and Okanagan-Westside MLA Rick Thorpe.
2007
December 20,
2007
Canada's
First Robot-Assisted Living Donor Kidey Surgery at VGH
December 11, 2007
Popcorn
Express, transplant recipients get on board to say thanks
November 29, 2007
BC
Women More Willing to Give (Tenth anniversary of BC's Organ Donor Registry)
October 31, 2007
Miracle
on 12th Avenue
October 22, 2007
BC
Transplant performs 1,000th living donor transplant
August 17, 2007
BC
transplant recipients gearing up for World Transplant Games in Bangkok
June 7, 2007
Organ
Donor Registration Tour rolling through Southern Interior
April 26, 2007
British
Columbians urged to register for organ donation
April 24, 2007
Transplant numbers
continue to set records in BC
February 22, 2007
150
British Columbians have received lung transplants
January 17, 2007
BC
Transplant performs record number of transplants in 2006
2006
December 11, 2006
Organ
Transplant Recipients Say Thank You to BC's Hospitals
December 04,
2006
Giving
the Ultimate Gift This Season
November 16,
2006
Transplant
patients to benefit from unique research partnership
August 29, 2006
BC
Motorists Drive-Up Registration Numbers
July 19, 2006
Financial
support for living donors shortens wait for transplants
BC
launches North America's first program to reimburse living donors
June 28, 2006
New
program offers hope to those waiting for a kidney transplant
April 20, 2006
Safer
Society Means Fewer Organ Donors
October 14,
2005
Victorians
support organ donation more than others in province, but more awareness still
needed
August 1,
2005
BC Organ Transplant Recipients Clean Up at XV World Transplant
Games
April 15,
2005
What Are You Waiting For? National Organ and Tissue
Donor Awareness Week
January 7, 2005
BC's Organ Donor Registry celebrates 500,000th registrant,
but need for
organ transplants still great
2004
December 6, 2004
New Test
for Transplant Rejection on the Horizon
November 25,
2004
BC Transplant Society performs Canada's first Living
Anonymous Donor Transplant
November 15, 2004
BC Transplant teams up with the three
North Shore communities to bring you North Shore Organ Donation Week - November
29 to December 3, 2004
September
24, 2004
BC Transplant Society Warns Against
Fraudulent Solicitations
April 20, 2004
Give Something Valuable to a Total Stranger
January 13, 2004
BC Legislature Leads Organ Donor Registration
January 2, 2004
Increased number of transplants in BC still fall
short of need
June 17, 2003
BC Transplant Society first program in Canada to develop
Organ Donor Screening Process for West Nile Virus
May 20, 2003
Run or volunteer for your life and support the BC Transplant
Society
and the Vancouver Island Relay
April 17,
2003
75% of British Columbians say they intend to register as an
organ donor, yet only 11% have done so
April 17,
2003
Vancouver's BC Transplant Drive-Thru for Life - Wednesday,
April 23, 2003
April 17,
2003
Victoria's BC Transplant Drive-Thru for Life - Friday,
April 25, 2003
February 20,
2003
BC
Transplant Society asked to take new
responsibility for tissue banks in BC
February
19, 2003
Ministerial
Statement: Action Plan to Ensure Safe Care at BC's Tissue Banks
February 5,
2003
Living Anonymous Donors: Lunatic or Saint?
February 14,
2002
100th lung transplant in BC recognized
January
3, 2002
BC recognizes new solid organ transplant record
2001
September 7, 2001
BC's unions mobilize to reduce transplant waiting times
June
8, 2001
St. Paul's Hospital performs 1,000th kidney transplant
March
26, 2001
BC Transplant Society halfway through groundbreaking
Living Anonymous Donor Study
January
31, 2001
Record 200 transplants performed due to living donors
2000
August
3, 2000
BC Transplant Society calls for support of
living organ donors
April
25, 2000
Organ donation…it's living proof
December
6, 1999
Anonymous Living Donation
October
13, 1999
Ulitimate heroes honoured
September
8, 1999
BC Transplant Society calls on Federal Government to introduce
comprehensive national organ donor strategy
June
16, 1999
200,000 British Columbians registered as organ donors
April
16, 1999
Your driver's license decal is no longer enough
April
15, 1999
Brining post transplant care closer to home
March
29, 1999
Organ transplant research awarded $165,000 by BC Health
Research Foundation and BC Transplant Foundation
1998
February 25, 1998
BC Transplant Foundation and the BC Health Research Foundation
awards $148,000 in funding to organ transplant researchers
1997
October
23, 1997
New Organ Donor Registry first of its kind in Canada
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