Transplant saves Paul's life

A Trafalgar resident faced certain death last year as he gasped for every breath with less than 15 per cent lung capacity.
But now, thanks to a life-saving organ donation, Paul Sandall is alive and well.
The 60-year-old was diagnosed with idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis, leaving him "totally helpless".
With his lungs steadily turning into what felt like concrete, Paul needed to carry an oxygen machine at all times.
"I was facing my own death as I was degrading so quickly," he said. "Every time I moved, I erupted into horrific suffocation fits, things like exposure to hot steam or cold air closed-up my airways."
"I relied on my partner to dress me, cook for me or take me to medical appointments. I couldn't even go to the toilet or shower without help."
The Alfred transplant team told Paul he needed a double lung transplant if he was to live beyond the end of the year.
But, like the 1800 others in Australia on the list for a life-saving organ transplant, Paul was warned it could be a lengthy wait.
"I was terrified. I didn't know if I was going to survive the operation. I didn't know if the transplant would work, or if my body would reject the donated lungs.
"I was scared I would die before I received a donation, and then I was told about the complicated mix of anti-rejection drugs I would have to take for the rest of my life."
However, good news arrived when his doctor walked in and notified a matched set of lungs had become available.
With DonateLife Week starting on Sunday, all Victorians are being urged to consider registering as organ and tissue donors.
According to DonateLife, about 80 per cent of Australians over 16 support organ and tissue donation, but only seven million are registered to do so. DonateLife wants to double this number.
Since his transplant, Paul has no signs of rejection, and his doctors are pleased with his recovery.
He has colour back in his face and has returned to working on his rural property.
He has even taken up bike riding and picked up his flute after being unable to use it for so many years.
"I often think about the donor and their family," Paul said. "I can't imagine the pain they must have gone through losing a loved one. They gave me the most precious gift I have ever received."
"I wish more people were like that family, we need more people to register as an organ donor," he added. "It saved my life and now I'm able to enjoy things I've never been able to do before."
DonateLife Victoria state medical director Rohit D'Costa said one organ donor could save the lives of up to seven people and change the lives of many more through eye and tissue donation.
"Like Paul, for someone who is seriously ill, an organ or tissue transplant can mean the difference between life and death," Dr D'Costa said.
DonateLife says it only takes one minute to register as a donor. Simply visit, donatelife.gov.au