A Luton woman who received a life-saving liver transplant is urging fellow residents to register as organ donors after her family endured what she calls “scary times” during her illness.
Jackie Little said she owes her life and precious time with her new grandson to the generosity of her donor and their family.
“Words can’t describe how this has improved all of our lives,” she said. “None of us take anything for granted anymore, and we are all more grateful for the small things. It makes you realise what’s really important.”
Jackie was first diagnosed with liver problems in 2017 and later with autoimmune hepatitis in 2020. By 2024 her health had deteriorated dramatically, leaving her exhausted, confused and sometimes unaware of where she was.
“I don’t know how my family coped, especially my husband, son and stepdaughter,” she said. “I was forgetting who people were and where I was, leaving the house then not knowing where I was going or what I’d gone for. We had to put cameras in and outside the house so I could be checked on for my own safety.”
Placed on the organ waiting list in November 2024, Jackie received her transplant five months later at Addenbrooke’s Hospital.
“When I woke up the next day I knew I was better,” she said. “My head was clear, I didn’t feel confused and my speech was clearer. Waiting and recovery aren’t easy but are well worth it. It’s so important to be on the organ donor register as it gives people like me their life back.”
The NHS says more than 8,000 people across the UK are waiting for a transplant and every day patients die due to a shortage of donors. One donor can save or transform up to nine lives, and as many as 50 more through tissue donation.
Medical director Paul Tisi said Organ Donation Week highlights how one person can make a profound difference saying: “We know that one person can save up to nine lives through organ donation, and even more through tissue and cornea donation. We are asking our staff to register their organ donation decisions and to promote this to families, friends and their communities.”
Residents can register their decision via the NHS app, the Organ Donor Register website or by calling 0300 123 23 23.
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