An NHS worker from Stokesley is urging families to register their wishes on the organ donor register after revealing how her late mum gave two people the gift of life.
Helen Wilson, a general manager at University Hospitals Tees, has spoken about the legacy of her mother, Judith Webster, who died unexpectedly in 2019 at the age of 63.
Judith, a former radiographer at The James Cook University Hospital, had carried a donor card throughout her career in the NHS. When she passed away, her decision meant two people – one who had waited five years for a transplant, and another who had waited seven – were given the chance to spend Christmas with their families.
Helen said: “Since we were very little, we always knew about mum’s wishes as she carried her donor card in her purse wherever she went.
“As children, we frequently would have conversations about our own wishes and became comfortable to be able to advocate for mum when the time came.”
She described the moment her family was asked about organ donation as “surreal” but made easier because they had always known Judith’s wishes.
Helen added: “We were in a very fortunate position to know mum’s views on organ donation, which made it easier when we were asked in Accident and Emergency if we could consider it.
The organ donation process also enabled our family to spend even more time with her and to say our goodbyes in the intensive care unit. The staff were kind and patient with us and guided us through the process skilfully.”
On Christmas Eve 2019, Judith’s family received a letter from the transplant recipients, confirming that her donation had saved two lives.
Helen said: “Being a donor family is a special club. Although I hope no one has to face this, we find great comfort in knowing that mum’s wishes were followed through to give the gift of life to someone.”
Lisa Tombling, specialist nurse for organ donation, praised the family for sharing their story.
She said: “Her mum’s life is a testament to how a simple decision to donate organs makes the entire process of organ donation more comfortable for families. It just takes two minutes to confirm your decision, which could save nine lives.”
Anyone can confirm their decision by visiting the NHS Organ Donor Website.
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