Max and Keira’s law - the French equivalent saved my life!

[Isabelle2]

Hi all

I haven’t been on here for a few days so apologies if this has already been commented on. For those who don't know, it’s the law which came in on the 22nd in England, which means everyone is considered to have given consent for an organ donation on their death unless they actively opt out. In Wales this is already law and it will also become law in Scotland soon. In N Ireland I don’t believe it is planned anytime soon.

I live in France and 3 years ago, in May, was told I would need a transplant. No rush, we’ll have you in, say October and do the tests then you’ll be able to have a transplant probably just after the New Year. I know, those of you on, or having been on the waiting list, I kid you not. These were the words of my specialist. He was sure because, in France - perhaps ever since transplants - but certainly for the past 30 years this has been the case. He knew that, unfortunately for someone else, there would be a donor. I am an easy blood group, so that helps I’m sure but it wouldn’t be a problem.

As it was in the beginning of June my situation got worse and on the 16th I was hospitalised. They were then saying We’ll put you on the list in a few days and keep you in. You’ll have had the op by probably the second week of July.

By the 24 th I had bad HE and they put me on the urgent list. the evening of the 25th my family were told to say goodbye. I was in a coma, end of life etc. At 4 the next morning my hubby was phoned. They had a donor!

Suffice to say that if I had not been in a country with an opt out system I wouldn’t be here today.

I hope this gives hope to those of you waiting. Slowly but surely things should get better and more organs will be available - as bittersweet as that is, I know.

[TT-2018]

Thank you for your message, I personally believe that if you opt out of giving, you should also be exempt from receiving. That might just make people think about their choices.

[Hidden]

Good morning Isabelle2,

Thank you for sharing your story, I am sure it will provide food for thought and inspiration for others,

Take care and stay safe,

Trust9

[Dyin2live]

I had no idea this was the case in parts of Europe. I am doubtful this will EVER happen in the U.S. but I think it's an excellent idea. This is not just because I have Cirrhosis. Even if I were perfectly healthy I would feel the same.

[Isabelle2]

Yes. It just seems so obvious it’s the way to go. Quite clearly there are some people who for religious reasons or whatever want to opt out. That’s fine but the assumption is you might give your organs when you no longer need them.

In reality this does not mean most people’s organs are donated. It is only really a small percentage of cadavers which are suitable due to how, where they die etc.

As I say it saved my life and I and my family are eternally grateful to the W French system.

Izzy xx

[ThreeSmiles in reply to Isabelle2]

Fantastic Izzy 👍👍.

Sometimes the French do seem to do things so well! Mind you I know we do too but wouldn’t it be great to combine the best of both countries and here we go doing just that - yippee.

Oops. Not meant to be political just my musings.anyway it’s great that their system worked so much in your favour.

Miles

[Isabelle2 in reply to ThreeSmiles]

Years ago when in the US we were staying with my hubby’s elderly cousins. They moved there in the 50s.

One of their friends, American, couldn’t see the point of a system of universal health care. In Europe this is what countries have, although the exact detailed workings of the system vary according to country.

I explained to him that it was as a result of the terrible suffering experienced by Europeans during the war, something not experienced in the US apart from the bombing if Pearl Harbor, that it had come about.

Each country had been severely damaged by the war and each population wanted to rebuild a better France, UK, Germany, Belgium or wherever. Giving everyone the right to healthcare was simply part of that. It was a pact between government and population and we all still cherish it whole heartedly!

End of history lesson 😂😂

[ThreeSmiles in reply to Isabelle2]

😀 - suitably educated 👍😀