The EODD 2013 campaign has begun with the Council of Europe'sEuropean Directorate for the Quality of Medicines and Healthcare releasing the first two, in a series of four, animated video clips; one being released each week until the main celebration event on 12 October, in Brussels.
These clips are being used to stimulate discussion on the subject of organ donation and transplantation. The ultimate aim of the European Day for Organ Donation and Transplantation (EODD) is to encourage debate and, ultimately, increase the number of donors throughout Europe, bringing down the shocking statistics of patients dying while waiting for organs.
In 2011, 68,073 people were waiting for a kidney transplantation in Europe. Whilst on all organ waiting lists, 12 people died every day due to the lack of available organs, 12 people who would have otherwise had the chance of being saved had an organ arrived on time. Kidney, liver, heart, lung, pancreas, intestine, bone marrow and many other tissues and cells can be transplanted and anyone could become a donor, regardless of their age. To become an organ donor is to offer an incredible gift, a gift that could potentially save the lives of 8 people. Donated tissues and cells have the potential of saving or improving the lives of up to 100 people.
This year will mark the 15th EODD, and following Hungary in 2012, Belgium will play host to the celebration day with events being held from 10-12 October. (more...)
