The Margaret Pratt Foundation

PM's Letter

Letter from The Honourable Mr. John Howard PM

"It is my pleasure to provide this message of support for such a worthy cause. Organ donation is a most complicated and sensitive issue. It is always touching to hear how a family's decision in a difficult time means that one person's loss of life gives another the chance to live. It is equally inspiring to to hear of people who benefit from such sacrifice seeking to give back and assist others in similar situations. I understand that this Foundation seeks to do just that.

Australia has one of the highest transplant success rates in the world. Since 1965, over 30,000 Australians have received organ transplants. Very high survival rates mean that most recipients of organs can look forward to many years of productive life. In 2002, over 200 organ donors gave over 950 people a second chance at life. Yet there is still much work to be done in encouraging organ donation and medical and scientific research to enhance the effectiveness of transplants and reduce the likelihood of rejection.

Australia's excellent reputation in transplantation practice can only be enhanced by the activities of organisations such as this Foundation. In particular, Margaret Pratt's efforts to assist the work of the Alfred Hospital's transplant programme are most praiseworthy. I wish the Foundation well in its endeavours."