"A Gift of Love", St. Michael's Parish Conference

In efforts to dispel religious misconceptions surrounding organ and tissue donation, my good friend and fellow organ recipient, Carol, along with a team from four parishes across Waterloo Region (St. Michaels, St. Louis, St. Agnes and Our Lady of Lourdes) planned an organ and tissue donation awareness conference. Titled "A Gift of Love", the panel consisted of Versha, Carol, Claire, myself and Father Tim.

Versha is the Vice President of Operations of Trillium Gift of Life Network (TGLN) and spoke about TGLN, statistics in Ontario and some of the misconceptions. She did a wonderful job and made clear several important points. Carol spoke about her journey to her transplant and what it is like to wait for an organ. She invited Janet, Pam and Ray to share their personal opinion of waiting for an organ since they are currently listed at this time. Claire shared her story of her son that passed before his time at the age of 4 and saved many lives by donating his organs. Claire shared her story with grace. While it is a difficult story to hear, she certainly provided an important perspective. Father Tim is a double cornea recipient and also detailed the catholic perspective of organ and tissue donation.

"I have come so that they may have life, and have it more abundantly" John 10:10

Carol and the team did a fantastic job planning this event and touched many lives. She has set an example for future events the Life Donation Awareness Association can work to plan.

I was very excited to see so many of the members from the group come out to help and support this event. It's really wonderful how people come together to make a difference.

Janet, Pam and Ray

Presentation Panel: Father Tim, Claire, Andrea, Carol and Versha