Powerful poems mark National Poetry Day
Two special organ donation themed poetry videos have been shared on social media and YouTube to mark National Poetry Day, which took place on October 1st. The poems, titled "If I Should..." and "Thank you to a Stranger" were watched by more than 10,000 people.
If I Should...
“If I Should…” was written by NHS nurse Becky Topham-Roche after a night shift and reflects on the gift of life organ donation brings. It was inspired by working with a colleague who is currently on the transplant waiting list, needing a kidney transplant.
The poem was voiced by four NHSBT staff members, all reading one verse each.
Listen to the poem
Thank you to a Stranger
“Thank you to a Stranger” was written by Laura MacLennan, who was the transplant buddy for her Auntie Debra, supporting her all the way through the process of waiting for a transplant to receiving one.
Debra had a double lung transplant in 2015 and the video features her and Laura reading the poem, set to photos of Debra’s life pre and post-transplant.
Listen to the poem
The law around organ donation in England has changed. You still have a choice whether or not you wish to become an organ donor. You can register your organ donation decision today. Please make sure you share your decision with your family.