An organ donation saved Chris Nichols’ life

FOR 20 years, Chris Nichols struggled with ill health due to a failing liver and kidney.

Chris Nichols received an organ donation which saved his life. Picture: Robert Pozo

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FOR 20 years, Chris Nichols struggled with ill health due to a failing liver and kidney.

The 59-year-old grandfather also had diabetes and had been in and out of hospital, avoiding death on numerous occasions.

Mr Nichols, of Bradbury, was on a waiting list for a liver and kidney transplant for two years.

In April last year, he received a call at 3am to come to Campbelltown Hospital, where a lifesaving organ donation was waiting.

Mr Nichols said the organ transplant gave him a new lease of life. Picture: Robert Pozo

After an 11 hour operation, Mr Nichols spent 17 days in hospital recovering.

Mr Nichols said the operation had not only saved his life, but meant he could enjoy his life as well.

“I didn’t know what it was like to feel well, I hadn’t felt this good in years,” he said.

“I was able to start work again four months after.

“I didn’t think I’d make it to the transplant at times.”

“It’s a second chance at life and I will never forget my donor.”

Mr Nichols encouraged people to sign on to the organ donation list.

Mr Nichols said he remains indebted to his organ donor. Picture: Robert Pozo

“It’s a second chance at life and I will never forget my donor,” he said.

“It’s incredibly sad that a young man lost his life, I will never forget him because without his donation I wouldn’t be here today to be with my children and grandchildren.”

There are more than 1400 people across Australia on waiting lists for a lifesaving or life transforming transplant, according to the Organ and Tissue Authority.

DonateLife Week information stalls will be at Campbelltown Mall on Thursday and Campbelltown Hospital on Friday.

For more information on organ donation visit donatelife.gov.au.