A NORTH Belfast man who donated his kidney is encouraging people to have a conversation with their family about organ donation.
John Cunningham, from the Antrim Road is an altruistic living kidney donor, a term used for a person donating a kidney to someone they do not know, but who needs a transplant.
To mark Organ Donation Week John took part in The 'Grand Organ Donation Life Cycle' event at Grand Central Station, which brought together Translink staff, travellers and members of the organ donation and transplantation community from across the North for a virtual cycle challenge to Dublin.
Set against the busy backdrop of the flagship transport hub, the event puts the spotlight on the life-saving and life-changing impact of organ donation and transplantation. It also gives those whose lives have been touched by donation or transplantation the chance to share their personal stories with the thousands of commuters passing through the station each day.
John explained: "I have been a blood donor for a number of years and saw a display in the City Hospital for organ donation.
"It was an easy process, with keyhole surgery and when I found out it could help three people, that was a big incentive for me.
"Since then, I have been involved with Transplant Sport Northern Ireland along with transplant athletes and other donors. Last year, I represented Northern Ireland in the World Transplant Games and we won a few medals.
"Organ donation is so important. I would urge people to have a conversation with your family and should the worst happen and you pass away, they know you are happy to donate your organs. Whether you are on the organ donation register or not, your family have the last word.
"Research has found that if you discuss your wishes with your family, the rates of organ donation can double."
Catherine McKeown, Organ Donation Promotion Manager at the Public Health Agency, said: "It's fantastic to be working alongside Translink again for what has become a real highlight of Organ Donation Week.
"Events like this allow us to reach people who might not otherwise think about organ donation, and that's so important. Every conversation we spark today could be the one that helps someone make an informed decision, and ultimately, save a life."
Translink Group Chief Executive Gerard Carlin, echoed the importance of raising awareness of organ donation.
"We are proud to support this cycle challenge at Belfast Grand Central Station as part of Organ Donation Week," he added.
"Organ donation has the power to transform and save lives, yet many people have not had the important conversation with their loved ones about their donation decision. By bringing this event to one of the busiest transport hubs in Ireland we hope to help raise awareness, encourage discussion and highlight the profound difference organ donation can make to individuals, families and communities. We would encourage everyone to take a few moments to learn more about organ donation and share their wishes with those closest to them."
Organ donation in the North moved to an opt-out system in 2023 under Dáithí's Law, named following a campaign by Ballymurphy boy Dáithí Mac Gabhann (9) and his campaign for a heart transplant.
However, donation can still only go ahead with a family's support, which is why registering a decision and talking about it with loved ones remains essential.
It takes just two minutes to register your decision at organdonationni.info. Then, talk to your family about your wishes today.
