Letter: Moralist medics lose a donor

Audrey Hunt
Thursday 30 January 1997 00:02 GMT
Comments

Your support helps us to tell the story

From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.

At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.

The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.

Your support makes all the difference.

Sir:I have carried a donor card for many years, but I intend to destroy it, in protest at the attitude of Michelle Paul's surgeon, and that of other doctors, as described by Glenda Cooper ("Should those who abuse their bodies pay the price?", 28 January).

I have always assumed that after my death my organs would go to the most suitable recipient on the waiting list, irrespective of her/his demographic background or lifestyle. I find it intolerable that some self-righteous surgeon should deprive someone of the chance of life which a part of my body might give.

I am a lifelong moderate drinker and smoker, so I particularly object to actions which discriminate against people who share my taste in these matters. Apart from the ethical considerations, it is possible that organs accustomed to dealing with gin and nicotine might be less likely to be rejected by such people.

AUDREY HUNT

Woodford Green, Essex

Join our commenting forum

Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies

Comments

Thank you for registering

Please refresh the page or navigate to another page on the site to be automatically logged inPlease refresh your browser to be logged in