Organ donations reach record levels in B.C. during 2018

The 502 organ transplants during 2018 in British Columbia is a new record, according to B.C. Transplant.

"This record number of transplants is a testament to the spirit of our residents, who gave the greatest gift of all last year the chance at a new life for others," saidHealth Minister Adrian Dix.

Kidney transplants accounted for339 of the procedures, with 100 living donors stepping up last year.

B.C. Transplant says 2018 was also a record year for deceased donors with 122.

"It takes an incredible team effort to make organ donation happen," says Dr. SeanKeenan, B.C. Transplant's medical director of Organ Donation Services.

"Once a family selflessly consents to organ donation on behalf of their loved one, upwards of 100people are initially involved for each organ donor and transplant recipient."

Over1.35 million BritishColumbianshave registered their wishes to be an organ donor.

As of Jan.1 of this year,669 people are still waiting for an organ transplant in B.C.

B.C. Transplant continues to urge people to register as an organ donor and share their intentions with family members.

The group points out that organ donor LoganBoulet,who died in the HumboldtBroncos bus crash, helped save the lives of six people.