Signed donor cards not enough to make 1.8 million Ontarians official organ donors
Becoming a donor can save as many as eight lives
The Trillium Gift of Life Network has discovered almost 2 million Ontarians mistakenly believe they're registered organ donors.
A study by the organization found 1.8 million people believe the old, signed cards are adequate, but president Ronnie Gavsie said registering is actually done online at BeADonor.ca or when people renew their health card or driver's license.
"Registration has the power to save lives. It's a gift that leaves a legacy," she added.
Doug Ferguson said he knows how important that legacy can be. The London, Ont. man received a donated liver two-and-a-half years ago.
"I'm very grateful for the gift I received," he said through tears. "It's allowed me to live a productive life. It did save my life."
Ferguson said people should check the back of their health cards for the word 'donor' to determine if they're registered. If not, he said signing up only takes a moment, but can save up to eight lives.