RORY DOHERTY WAS 19-years-old when he signed up to become an organ donor.
Nine months ago, at the age of 33, he died following a work accident and at the hospital staff asked his family would they donate his organs.
His sister Ailbhe said the family “knew without doubt exactly what we would do”. “For a family it is a devastating moment because not only were we losing someone we love, but we were also losing a best friend, father, son, brother and partner,” she explained.
“There is no doubt that the pain was unbearable but knowing that this was what Rory would have wanted and that something so amazing and positive could come out of what had happened we said ‘yes’ to donating his organs”.
She said she is “so incredibly proud” to think her brother was one of the 86 people last year who gave a lifeline to others.
“Rory saved five people’s lives, one recipient received his kidney and pancreas, the second recipient received his other kidney, we know his liver went to the third recipient and both his lungs went to a young person and finally his lovely heart went to England.”
Rory was such a unique character and so many people have said that it was a pity we couldn’t donate his funny bone. He had the ability not only to make people laugh uncontrollably but also knew how to put a smile on your face when you were feeling down, he cared about everyone. There are not enough words to describe just how proud I am of him, in life and in death – he was a legend.
Doherty said it gives her family comfort to know that Rory lives on and she now “wouldn’t be without” her donor card. As this week is Organ Donor Awareness Week and she said she would urge everyone to sign up for a card.
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