Heart-rending stories of love, sacrifice and saving lives

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By Manju Mittal

One had to be there on last Sunday of the month August 28, 2016 when the audience at Riverside Theatre felt deeply moved hearing stories of grieving parents. A mother who decided to donate organs of her young son while another was of a recipient’s mother and her unconditional love that drove her to save her child. Families related their experiences who have been profoundly touched by organ and tissue donation. Accompanied by photographs from private collections, the stories revealed engaging and inspiring insights into family, determination and of extraordinary generosity.

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Rupesh Udani, originally from India, Rosemarie and Oliver Zammit of Australian-Maltes background, Rita and George Germanos from Lebanon, Maria Capili was born in the Philippines and Andrew Vien’s parents are from Vietnam who related their stories.  These five Storytellers from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds shared their heart-warming journey on the ultimate gift of life in this year’s Life Giving Stories followed by Q&A session. A free live storytelling showcased the stories of organ and tissue recipients to increase awareness and highlighted the importance of organ and tissue donation amongst culturally and linguistically diverse communities.

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Though sad, it was quite inspiring to listen  their stories with story tellers answering questions from audience in Q&A round.  Afterwards there was a reception with light snacks and beverages and a time for families to reflect on the ceremony, speak with other donor family members and the community members who came to hear.

The storytellers hope that by sharing their journey with organ and tissue donation, their stories will hopefully encourage people from all diverse communities to start conversation with their own families and loved ones about this important issue.

Life Giving Stories 2016 were produced by the NSW Multicultural Communication Service in partnership with the NSW Organ and Tissue Donation Service (OTDS) and Performance 4A and staged at the Riverside Theatre in Parramatta NSW. This inspiring story telling session was directed by master storyteller and photographer William Yang and writer and produced by Annette Shun Wah.

I urge everyone to register for organ donation as it could be your loved one who is given a second chance at life. Each organ donor can save up to 10 lives and improve the lives of many others. Register right away today on: www.donatelife.gov.au

Short URL: https://indiandownunder.com.au/?p=7394