Donating life: Clive Barnard with a picture of his late wife Jeanette, an organ donor. Picture: Rob Carew
TWENTY years ago, Clive Barnard and his late wife Jeanette made a decision on what should be done once their time on earth was over.
The Croydon South couple agreed to donate their organs, believing it much better to help someone in need than "let the worms get inside you".
However, Mr Barnard didn't think this choice would be played out until much later in life.
His wife suffered a fatal brain aneurism in May last year and her organs were donated.
In a peculiar way, the grief Mr Barnard and his two children still feel is lessened because someone else's life has been enriched.
"It's very gratifying and moving when you are told by donor recipients that their family member has received an organ and have been able to live a normal life," he says.
A strong advocate for organ donation, Mr Barnard acknowledges the hardship involved in making what can be a "soul-searching" decision, but he urges everyone to sign the national register.
"I respect people with religious or other beliefs; that's their call. But I'd like to think other people can start to realise the impact donating can have on other people's lives."
He encourages all families to sit down and openly discuss the idea of organ donation — something Eastern Health nurse donation specialist Erin East says is very important.
"With one organ and tissue donor having the potential to transform the lives of 10 or more people, it's a vital discussion," she says.
DonateLife Week ends on March 3. Its aim is to raise awareness about organ and tissue donation, increasing the number of people who share their wishes with their loved ones.
Information about events and activities can be found at dontatelife.gov.au