Romford survivor backs organ appeal

A 27-year old transplant survivor suffering from cystic fibrosis is backing an appeal to help drive up the number of organ donors.

Born with the hereditary condition drama student Victoria Tremlett, of Romford, waited four years for an operation that changed her life.

Ms Tremlett said: “To me organ donation means that I am alive to spend Christmas with my family, which I certainly wouldn’t have been without my donor.”

Since receiving a lung transplant in 2011, Ms Tremlett has completed a university degree in English Literature, achieving first class honours.

She now has her sights set on a career on the stage and is studying drama while also running a successful cake-making business in her spare time.

This experience has inspired her to join the NHS Christmas List campaign to raise awareness about the thousands of other people across the country who are still waiting for their transplants.

She said: “Ever since I was waiting for transplant I have been working to raise awareness and encouraging donors to sign up. I have friends still needing transplants and the awful wait isn’t something you can forget.”

Speaking about her donor, Ms Tremlett said: “I always think of them and their family but especially this time of year, I am eternally grateful for their gift.

“To me organ donation is synonymous with giving, kindness and love: the spirit of Christmas itself.”

Gail Mander, an NHS nurse specialising in organ donation, works with the families of organ donors, supporting them through the process.

She said: “For many patients a transplant is the only option left and their life depends on families agreeing to donate.

“It is humbling to work with people following the loss of a loved one at any time of year, not just at Christmas, and it is very rewarding to fulfil the wishes of a donor and their family to save lives.”

To register on the NHS Organ Donor Register, NHS organ donation website, call 0300 123 23 23 or text SAVE to 62323