We spoke of the bone marrow transplants that were being
trialled, and agreed that it seemed unbelievable that an effective
registry of bone marrow types had not been set up.
How could the transplant program be effective if it was so
difficult to locate a suitable donor? No doubt it came down to
money again. But surely it would have to be a priority with health
administrators to support this life-saving program. If this type
of treatment were to help leukaemia patients and others, then
it must be rated as important.
In this era of organ transplants, such resources are essential.
I wonder how many people have given serious consideration
to donating their organs in the event of them no longer needing
them? It's definitely a hard decision. But the overriding principle
is that by making such a commitment, you have the opportunity
to save lives. This makes the issue clearcut for me.
They can have my organs when I'm finished with them. But
I'm not sure that they will want them.
I am also astounded by the number of people who don't give
blood.
I've had so many needles that the thought of another doesn't
worry me. It also shouldn't worry many people at all. But again,
it would seem that I cannot help in this area, which is annoying
for me.
During my time of illness, I benefited regularly from the
generosity of so many other people who made the effort to donate
some of their blood. People probably do not understand that
one patient may require massive quantities after an accident or during their treatment.
Many, many packets of A+ flowed into my veins. The drugs
would devastate my blood, then reinforcements would be called
upon. I wish I could thank the donors individually.
When I left the hospital, I knew that my trip had been most
worthwhile. I felt really good inside.
While in there I had met two doctors who were working in
this field, and was pleased to hear that they both knew of me,
and could quote my case to patients. They seemed young and
caring, and I remember at the time hoping that they did not
develop into doctors like my doomsday friend, who was too quick
to predict my demise.
How often could I visit patients at the hospital?
