Family tell of Ian Hoggarth's 'amazing organ gift'

THE family and girlfriend of a keen cyclist who died suddenly have found comfort in his decision to become an organ donor.

Ian Hoggarth was just 34 when he died from Brugada syndrome, which causes sudden unexpected cardiac death in apparently healthy individuals.

Without telling anyone, he had signed up to the NHS Organ Donor Register just six weeks before his death.

His family were asked about organ donation while they were at his bedside before he died in hospital.

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Ian's mother, Barbara, 60, said she was unaware her son was interested in becoming a donor and it was comforting to know they were following his wishes when faced with the decision.

She said: "You still have to say 'yes' but it's a comfort to know we had made the right decision. People don't discuss these hard issues as much as they should.

"If one person reads this and thinks 'I will talk to my husband, wife, friend or partner', it will have raised awareness."

Tracey Heron, specialist nurse in organ donation at Hull and East Yorkshire Hospitals NHS Trust, said, with tissue donation included, one donor can help up to 50 people. Solely based on organ donation, a donor can help up to nine people.

Tracey said: "If you speak to your loved ones and they know your wishes, it makes their decision so much easier," she said. "I don't think people realise how easy it is."

Tracey said organ donation can bring comfort to families at the most difficult times in their lives.

"It's an amazing gift Ian has given," she said.

"I hope his family get a lot of comfort, not just now but years down the line, that something positive has come from such a tragic situation.

"Many families I have been with in these circumstances have taken comfort from knowing their loved ones have been able to help others after their death and give the gift of life."

Tracey said the benefit to recipients should not be underestimated.

She said: "It can give recipients an unbelievable quality of life.

"Their daily living, if you can call it living, means they are waiting for hospital treatment or they are in hospital.

"They can't do normal daily activities. Having a transplant can give them a quality of life where they can go back and enjoy their children and be able to participate in everyday things families do.

"It makes such a difference."