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HEALTH & WELLNESS TISSUE DONATION
THE TRUTH OF BARE BONES
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There's a hero inside all of us. And that's not just a platitude about unrealised potential but a reality as far as tissue donation is concerned. Tissue donation refers to the generous donation of human tissue, which includes bone and other products created from human tissue, bestowed after death. According to Bone SA, a registered non-profit organisation concerned with tissue products for medical use, one tissue donation can save or improve the lives of more than 65 people. “That's an exponential benefit, which builds a good case for why more people should be encouraged to consent to tissue donation,” says Dr Moji Mogari, Medical Director at Bone SA. But he goes on to explain that it is also a sensitive topic steeped in diverse ethics, opinions and morality. “There are a number of myths that are perpetuated about tissue donation and this misunderstanding contributes to our general fear and hesitation around consenting to tissue donation.”
Not all donations come from people who have died either. Living donors about to undergo hip replacements, can also help by donating the hip bone which is removed during this procedure.
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Photo by Antonius Ferret from Pexels
But knowledge dispels fear, and Mogari believes that debunking some of the more common myths about tissue donation is an important step towards changing attitudes. Significantly, fewer reasons for exclusion as a tissue donor allows the majority of people who die to help others through tissue donation – possibly the simplest way to be a real hero and leave a legacy.”
