Last modified: 11 May 2000
National Organ Donor Awareness Day -- John Hunter Hospital
by John Miller
It was a beautiful late May morning when we set up our stall in the foyer of John Hunter Hospital, in New Lambton Heights in Newcastle. The Hunter Health Organ transplant coordinator, Janice Crooks-Vadjal, had beaten us in setting up tables, chairs, and of course, coffee and tea were on tap. We expected several transplants to attend but I was suprised by the response. Keith Galdino and Hazel Robson were in their Transplant Sports track uniforms, as was Beverley Langford with the two boys, along with John and Dot Taylor. Also there were Robin Buxton, a heart transplant, Vivienne Heels, who is awaiting lungs (who made a spendid effort as she is on oxygen 24 hours a day!) and me (liver) and Jan. Many of the medical staff came and went and made it even more enjoyable.
Donor rose pins were on sale as was a wealth of stickers, brochures, and donor cards. The Newcastle Herald was there to give us press and we had many photos taken. The reporter was quite surprised by all of these everyday people who had had a transplant and looked so well. During the day we sold a total of 11 donor rose pins and gave away heaps of donor cards and pamphlets. Many people took cards for their family members as well. I wish to convey my sincere thanks to all who participated and made the day an enjoyable one.
John Miller