Monday 29 December 2008

Christmas, New Year and sad news.


Firstly and most importantly, we hope that all our LLTGL supporters had a wonderful, happy and peaceful Christmas. We have been taking a small (but much needed!) break over the festive period and will be back full steam ahead come New Year.

Christmas and New Year are times of great reflection many of us, especially for Transplant recipients. Feelings of joy and gratitude of still being here thanks to the greatest Gift of all are often mixed with feelings of sadness and reflection when thinking of the donor and their family.

The New Year brings great excitement of new possibility and opportunity, but for many a fear of what may (or sadly may not) come. Let's hope that 2009 is the year when the British public really begins to sit up and take notice of Organ Donation, the huge crisis we are facing due to the escalating shortage of donors, and the incredible legacy that one can leave by joining the Organ Donor Register.

We are also very sad to say that Helen Miller, one of our courageous volunteers who contributed her moving story to our Life Stories section, passed away shortly after Christmas. Helen had been battling Emphysema for many years and was listed for a life-saving transplant in 2006. She waited and hoped, and fought hard to raise awareness, keeping a weekly diary in her local paper the Sheffield Star.

Helen’s courage and determination to speak out to highlight the plight of those in need of a transplant were a true testament to her strength of character. Our thoughts are with her family and friends at this sad time, they now face the New Year festivities without a very special lady.

If you would like to do something in Helen’s memory, simply pass on this blog to hopefully encourage others to sign the Organ Donor Register.

Thank you.


x


2 comments:

Anonymous said...

I'm so sorry to read that about Helen, my thoughs are with all who knew and loved her.

Audrey x

lulu said...

Rest in peace Helen. You will be missed by so many. You were truly amazing!!!

Lu xxx