This gift did not arrive under the tree

Woodstock Sentinel-Review, Woodstock, ON

This gift did not arrive under the tree
One Person's View

Kristi Setterington
Thursday January 03, 2008

The best gift a former director of education for the London District Catholic School Board received this Christmas wasn’t found under the tree, but rather through the generosity of one family.
Joe Rapai received a much needed liver transplant in November and was home in time to celebrate the holidays with his family.
"God has blessed me because everything is wonderful. It is a second life. It is the gift of life," he said upon his return home.
Rapai believes education is the best way to promote organ donation. He plans to become part of the education process, by making himself available to encourage people to consider signing organ donor cards.

Each year thousands of Ontarians receive a second chance at life, because of the decision families make to give the gift of life and donate organs and tissues. But with that said, there are still many of who are waiting.
Rapai spent the better part of four years waiting for his new liver. The waiting was harder than the actual surgery, he said.
Some will wait years and will lose their lives because suitable donors are not found in time.
Rapai is one of the lucky ones. According to the Trillium Gift of Life network, more than 350 people in Ontario are waiting for a new liver.
The Trillium Gift of Life network says over 1,600 people are awaiting transplants in Ontario. Organs and tissues that can be donated include the heart, liver, kidneys, pancreas, lungs, small bowel, stomach, corneas, heart valves, bone and skin.
You can get a donor card by calling the Trillium Gift of Life Network at 1-800-263-2833. Donor cards can also be found with every driver’s licence renewal and in many doctor’s offices.
By agreeing to be an organ donor, you can help give the gift of life to someone in need. Sign your organ donation card today.