In recent years, the life expectancy for people with CF has been increased through more advanced treatment with antibiotics, physiotherapy and other therapies, but despite these treatments, the disease does get progressively worse.

Both life expectancy and the quality of life for sufferers can be significantly improved through a lung transplant.

An Irish Lung Transplantation Unit is now up and running at the Mater Hospital, Dublin and we look forward to seeing lung transplantations taking place on CF patients. Currently Irish CF patients awaiting a lung transplant have the choice to be registered on either the Mater or Newcastle list.

The Cystic Fibrosis Association of Ireland in conjunction with the Irish Donor Network has lobbied extensively for a review of organ donation, procurement and transplantation in Ireland since 2003. The HSE established a Review Group in June 2006. From the Irish Donor Network's point of view we would hope that the Review Group would:

Conduct a review of organ procurement practices and governance in Irish hospitals (heart, lung, kidney, liver) and compare this with best practices/p>

Examine the usage rate of donated organs in Ireland .

Review the practice in relation to transplant services nationally for each of the major organs including patient selection, governance, and performance monitoring

The Association recognises the necessity to maximise all organ procurement and utilisation opportunities to save and enhance lives.

Click here for an organ card, Print it out, sign it and carry it with you in your wallet. More importantly don't forget to tell your family/friends your wishes.

Be An Organ Donor click here for more information