People across Ayrshire and Arran are being encouraged to leave no doubt when it comes to their donation decision this Organ and Tissue Donation Week.
Today, NHS Ayrshire & Arran is getting behind Organ and Tissue Donation Week (21-27 September), and encouraging local residents to leave no doubt when it comes to their donation decision.
In Scotland, everyone aged 16 and over has a choice when it comes to organ and tissue donation – to be a donor, or to opt out. This means that if you die in circumstances where donation is possible and you haven’t recorded a decision, it is assumed you agree to be a donor, unless you are in a group for whom the opt-out system does not apply, or it would be against your views.
NHS Ayrshire & Arran is encouraging everyone to make their organ and tissue donation decision known and sharing it with their loved ones. While Scotland’s opt-out system is in place, it remains important to register your wishes and discuss them with family and friends, ensuring your decision is understood and respected. Visit www.organdonation.scot to record your choice and find out more.
Charles McAllister (Charlie) knows first-hand the difference a transplant can make. Living on Arran, he faced twice-weekly trips to University Hospital Crosshouse for dialysis after kidney failure caused by Polycystic Kidney Disease. Despite the challenges of travel and winter ferry disruption, he remained positive while waiting for a transplant from his brother, Willie.
In May 2026, Charles received his life-changing kidney transplant. Just three months later, he was back helping on the family farm, with more energy, a healthy appetite and a renewed sense of freedom.
Charles brother Willie, 64 years, decided to donate a kidney to his brother after seeing the challenges he faced travelling for dialysis treatment. Speaking of his experience he said, “Donating a kidney was straightforward and I recovered quickly, returning to light duties within a few weeks.”
Grateful for his brother’s generosity, Charles encourages anyone who is suitable for transplantation to consider it. “Go for it,” he says. “My experience was positive, I was well looked after every step of the way, and the benefits have been life-changing.”
His brother Willie added, “The best part has been seeing Charlie regain his health, energy and independence. If you’re considering living kidney donation, I’d encourage you to find out more. It’s an incredible gift to give, and you really could change someone’s life.”
Charles “Chick” Hamilton, 61, from Kilmarnock, has experienced both the highs and lows of the transplant journey.
After receiving a kidney from his wife, Sheena, in March 2024, the transplant was sadly unsuccessful despite several operations. Following months of dialysis and a cancelled transplant in October 2025, Chick finally received a successful kidney transplant on Christmas Day 2025.
“The support from staff and my family got me through some of the toughest times of my life,” says Chick. “Today, I have a new lease of life. I’m free from dialysis, enjoying holidays with my family again and keeping up with my grandchildren. My advice is to learn as much as you can, seek support and stay positive. A transplant can give you the chance to start living again.”
Alistair Reid, Director of Allied Health Professionals and Chair of NHS Ayrshire & Arran’s Organ and Tissue Donation committee said,
“The NHS Organ Donor Register has helped save and transform countless lives through the gift of organ and tissue donation. Whatever your decision, make it known by recording it on the Register and sharing it with your loved ones.
Every donation opportunity can make a life-changing difference. This Organ and Tissue Donation Week, NHS Ayrshire & Arran is encouraging everyone to make their choice known and have the conversation with those closest to them.”
Don’t Leave Your Loved Ones in Doubt.
You can register your donation decision and find out more at www.organdonation.scot