Organ donation: the ultimate and most precious gift
Rob Brewster was just 51 when he was fatally struck by a jet ski while swimming at his local beach in Port Melbourne.
And while his tragic passing changed life forever for his tight-knit family, the much-loved father and friend left behind an enduring legacy, as an organ donor.
“He was a very kind and generous person so I think his final gesture in giving the gift of life to someone else was so fitting for the type of person he was,” says his daughter Alexandra.
While Rob spent his final days at The Alfred, the hospital’s Donate Life team supported his family, including then-teenage daughters Alexandra and Georgia, to work through his wishes.
Thankfully, Rob had had a casual conversation with the girls’ mum years earlier, and both parents had agreed they wanted to be organ donors.
“Knowing what Dad’s wishes were made the worst time in our life that little bit easier,” Georgia said.
“It was not a difficult decision for us as a family. As soon as the question was put to us, we knew our answer was yes.”
“We will never forget the care and compassion of the medical team who comforted us without judgement throughout this process.”
This week, the Donate Life team at The Alfred is urging people to have a conversation with their loved ones about organ donation.
“We know that around 80 per cent of families say yes to organ donation if they know their loved one wished to be a donor. At the same time, less than half will consent when they are unsure what those wishes had been,” said Kristen Willmott, Donation Specialist Nursing Coordinator at The Alfred.
“Having that conversation is so important.”
Alexanda, Georgia and their Mum are now registered organ donors, along with friends and extended family.
“Despite the incredible trauma and loss that has occurred as a result of losing Dad, we know that he was able to give the gift of life to others,” said Alexandra.
“His legacy still lives on and although his was cut short, he was able to ensure someone else had a second shot at life.”
DonateLife Week runs from 27 July - 3 August. To find out more about becoming an organ donor, visit www.donatelife.gov.au.
