Jim's Hearts

Here’s the good news: 90% of Canadians claim that they support organ donation and 95% of Canadians would accept an organ donation if they needed one (thanks to the good people at the because i can project for the stats). Now, here’s the bad news: less than 25% of Canadians have agreed to donate their organs. Seriously Canada?? Is this saying that 75% of us cannot possibly put ourselves into the shoes of someone who needs an organ donation now? How is it that we could be so short-sighted, cold, lacking empathy and just plain illogical? Here’s another piece of information for you then: you are 6 times more likely to need an organ transplant than to be a donor. Ready to tear your hair out yet?

We must change this story. People like Jim are on a waiting list that doesn’t have to exist. There is no logic to our abysmal donor registration numbers. Share this information as far and wide as you can. Sign up to beadonor in Ontario, and across Canada (not in Canada? Contact us and we’ll help you figure it out.)  Talk to your family about it.

Be inspired by Jim’s story. He’s waiting.

When we started our campaign to get people to sign up to be a donor, and talk to their families, we focussed on Ontario, Canada, because that’s where Jim lives and that’s where he waits for a new heart. It quickly became clear though that this is not just an Ontario issue. All provinces across Canada are looking for solutions. We’ve also heard from many states across America; Australia; Ireland; the UK and more. They all struggle with this same issue. We know have to start small…..but a little part of us wants to dream big. Like bringing together everyone with the same issue and solving it together. It’s easy to get carried away with grandiose ideas, and that’s great – we’re going all in and want everyone who is committed to organ donation to lend a hand. (Get in touch with us any time!)  Today though, the solution we have at hand is small, and it needs you. Sign up to be a donor. Tell your family. Share the message.

Jim is still waiting. Be inspired.

While Jim waits for his new heart, he’s not alone. Of course Marah and their children wait with him, and hope, and step up to do the things he can’t. Stepping up in the most unbelievable way are Marah’s parents, Dave and Lynn. At a time when a well-deserved retirement should be happy and carefree, Dave and Lynn find themselves in the role of primary caregivers once again. They live in the same home now with Jim, Marah and family, Lynn staying with Jim most days. As a retired nurse, Lynn is well-placed to offer support and care. Any event for Marah and Jim’s kids will find Dave behind the wheel – driving to and from, and staying to cheer them on. Marah will tell you they couldn’t do this without their support, and consider themselves lucky.

When you are on the waiting list for an organ transplant, lives are turned upside down. Not just your life – but those around you who love and support you.

Be inspired by Jim’s story. Be a donor. Talk to your family. For Dave and Lynn and all the incredible people supporting someone on the waiting list: share.