Simon Smith

My wife Lynn died in May 2017, a catastrophic aneurysm which was completely unexpected and from which she never regained consciousness. We’d talked about organ donation and both agreed that if the circumstances arose, it would be the next step. Lynn had said that the survivor might find the organ donation process helpful. I hadn’t appreciated what she might have meant but having experienced the astonishing care shown to Lynn and me by all, I think I understand what she was intimating. I found organ donation provided a structure which gave me time to be with Lynn and begin to appreciate the enormity of what had happened. I observed the second series of tests conducted by the consultant anaesthetist and believe that the organ donation process ensured there was dignity in death. It seemed a fitting end for Lynn who had given 35 plus years nursing service in the NHS, specialising in mental health for most of her career. Lynn was able to donate her liver, lungs and kidneys and four people were given life enhancing opportunities.

Since Lynn died I have been keen to promote organ donation, giving a donor family perspective. I now Chair North Cumbria Integrated Care NHS Trust’s Organ Donation Committee.