Cardiomyopathy is the leading reason for heart transplants. Today's change in the law regarding organ donation is a positive first step towards a whole new chance at life.
Although many people with cardiomyopathy have their condition and symptoms controlled with medication, for some people in advanced heart failure, a heart transplant can be their best option of controlling their condition.
Right now, there are around 295 people waiting for a new heart in the UK. The majority of these people have cardiomyopathy.
There is a real shortage of organ donors in the UK, with only one in three people registered as donors. Only with a significant increase in the number of people on the organ donor register can we increase the number of heart transplants, which currently sits at around 180 a year.
The law around organ donation in England has changed. From the 20th May, the introduction of Max and Kiera’s Law will make all adults potential organ donors unless they opt out. This law will greatly increase the number of people on the donor register and make a clear statement about the importance of organ donation.
This is a positive first step that presents an opportunity to have much-needed conversations about individual wishes and helps create a culture where organ donation is the norm.
If you’re fit and healthy, then donating your organs is likely to be the last thing on your mind – but it’s a vital decision you can make now that could save lives in the future.
A donated heart can mean a whole new chance at life for someone living with advanced heart failure due to cardiomyopathy. That’s why we encourage everyone to consider staying on the register and telling their family about their wishes.
Visit the NHS organ donor register for more information about organ donation and how to make your choice.