Two dedicated nurses from NHS Forth Valley, May Cooper and Caroline Gallier, have taken on a remarkable challenge to raise awareness for organ and tissue donation. May and Caroline, who are part of the Scotland Organ Donation Services team at Forth Valley Royal Hospital, decided to conquer Ben Nevis, the highest mountain in the UK. Their expedition was part of Organ and Tissue Donation Week 2024.
The duo joined other donor families and transplant recipients in simultaneously summiting six renowned peaks across the UK on September 27. These peaks included Scafell Pike in England, Yr Wyddfa and Pen Y Fan in Wales, Snaefall on the Isle of Man, and Slieve Donard in Northern Ireland. Participants carried photos of their loved ones to the mountain tops to commemorate Organ and Tissue Donation Awareness Week.
May expressed that the challenge was a way to unite with families impacted by organ donation and share a memorable experience. She highlighted the significance of the national campaign in reminding everyone that organ donation affects us all. Caroline added that the day spent on the challenge was rewarding, with stunning views and a positive atmosphere at the summit.
Currently, around 600 individuals in Scotland are awaiting organ transplants, with many from the Forth Valley region. More than half of the population in the NHS Forth Valley area have registered their donation decision, with 52% opting in and 3.3% choosing to opt out. Registering as an organ donor can potentially save multiple lives of critically ill patients.
For those interested in registering their donation decision or learning more about organ donation, they can visit Organ Donation Scotland or contact 0300 123 2323. While Scotland has implemented an opt-out system, individuals still have a choice in whether they wish to donate organs.
May and Caroline’s inspiring climb of Ben Nevis serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of organ donation and the impact it can have on saving lives. Their dedication to raising awareness for this cause is commendable and sets an example for others to follow in contributing to this life-saving initiative.