The Life-Changing Value of Organ Donation

The Life-Changing Value of Organ Donation

Did you know the Canadian Transplant Association (CTA) is part of a larger transplant community worldwide through the World Transplant Games Federation?

Over 42 countries have the opportunity to gather every other year for World Game events, participating in information sharing and peer connection.

The CTA is a 100 per cent volunteer-led registered charitable organization with a vision to improve the health outcomes of transplant recipients by promoting the message of post-transplant healthy living.

In 1987, the CTA was launched by a group of individuals passionate about showcasing the benefits of organ donation. Almost 35 years later, we have volunteers across the country raising awareness and creating a community for transplant recipients, donor families, living donors, and their families. We also engage with healthcare providers and other advocacy groups on matters relating to the health and overall wellness of transplant patients. The CTA is the only post-transplant community-focused group with representation across the country.

It is important to the CTA that membership be inclusive and accessible, so in 2021 we shifted to a no-cost membership model. Regardless of age, income, or involvement in the transplant community,

individuals can register for a free annual CTA membership. Our members participate in various events and activities supporting organ donation awareness, including the Canadian and World Transplant Games, National Organ and Tissue Donation Awareness Week, Green Shirt Day and local events like Transplant Trots. Our members represent recipients across organ types and range in age, from four to well over 80 years old! The CTA also provides its members with exclusive opportunities to participate in special transplant-related seminars, celebrations and more. Members can also access research, transplant information, and other healthy lifestyle tips.

The CTA continues to look for ways to expand its reach within Canada and ensure that Canadians know the value of organ donation by sharing member stories and showcasing the healthy lifestyles recipients experience post-transplant. By partnering with organizations like The Kidney Foundation of Canada, Canadian Blood Services, and CDTRP, as well as CST Canadian Society for Transplantation—both research-focused and patient-supported outcome groups. The CTA hopes to continue to grow relationships within the transplant community and provide its members with greater access to information and support for its membership.

In 2022, the CTA was the proud recipient of the Logan Boulet Humanitarian Award for our collective work and collaboration on Green Shirt Day efforts and for raising awareness for organ donation. The CTA is thrilled to continue to have the opportunity to help its members demonstrate the life-changing effects of organ donation on recipients and their families and celebrate the donors who make these gifts possible. As an organization 100 per cent powered by volunteers, the CTA recognizes and appreciates the countless hours of dedication and skill shared by our volunteers to achieve the Canadian Transplant Association’s vision.