Mr. Speaker, this year makes five that have passed since my sister, Sue, received the gift of freedom, of renewed life's normality. She was the recipient of a kidney, which has allowed her the fullness of daily living since. Sue's dialyzing for hours every day is for her and her family but a distant and fading memory.
This gift five years ago was a Godsend to my eternally grateful sister, as well as a blessing to her loved ones and friends who all silently prayed for her day of liberation to come. We joined in one voice to thank the medical doctors, donors and the families who selflessly contributed to this extraordinary gift in such a moment of grief.
Organ donation is truly a liberating gift, removing the shackles that bind one to a machine and, indeed, many times giving life itself.
On this the 4th day of May, I thank all donors everywhere, knowing that my sister Sue will have a happy birthday today.