There were 74 deceased organ donors from Welsh hospitals during 2017/18, the highest ever number of donors in Wales, the latest figures show.
This was published under the 2016 to 2021 administration of the Welsh Government
The Health Secretary, Vaughan Gething welcomed the news, saying:
“The organ donation figures are definitely moving in right direction but we do need to have several more years’ data to draw firmer conclusions around the impact of the change in the law.
“Every donor is incredibly precious; with approximately 300 people dying in circumstances where organ donation is possible we need everyone to say yes and for families to be ready to support this decision.
“We must not forget that behind every number is a person and a grieving family. My thanks go out to all those who choose to give the gift of life, and the family who support their decision. Without their generosity, others would not get their transformative transplant.
“We already know that consent data shows an increase in the percentage of families supporting donation and this is now being reflected in the rise in organ donors.
“Numbers in Wales are small which has caused fluctuations in performance in previous years. Despite the progress that is being made, there are still more people waiting for a life saving or life changing organ donation. I urge everyone to consider what their organ donation decisions are and to confirm that on the organ donor register and tell their family of their decision, asking them to honour it.”
You can register a decision at any time by calling 0300 123 23 23 (Calls to this phone line will be answered by NHS Blood and Transplant), by visiting Organ donation Wales or by telling your family (and friends).