Dr. Margot Burnell spoke to NBMS delegates about the impact of such a campaign in New Brunswick. Anyone of any age can donate organs and tissues from as many as 13 body sites. The health of the donor is most important. Organ donors are usually healthy people who die suddenly following severe brain injury, causing brain death. Brain death cannot be reversed and can only be declared by two physicians not involved in the organ donation or transplantation process.
Donation can only take place if brain death is declared and family consent granted.
Material was also available at the meeting including answers to frequently asked questions. Success rates vary depending on type of transplant, for example. More than 3,000 Canadians are waiting for an organ transplant. NBMS officials have been working with their counterparts in Alberta and Ontario to finalize a national group purchase plan for medical supplies and office equipment, according to a report filed by David Balmain, the Society's executive director. The NBMS has hired a consultant to assess the business plan and provide advice.