A meaningful sculpture recognizing the life-saving impact of organ donation has been unveiled at Great Western Hospital in Swindon, marking the beginning of National Organ Donation Week. The distinctive green sphere, crafted from brass and steel and incorporating various human organ shapes, was created by local artist David Murphy, who has personal experience with organ donation through his sister's kidney transplant.
The sculpture was unveiled by the family of Dr. Diana Episcopo, a former physician who became the oldest organ donor in the South West region at the age of 84. Her daughter, Joanne Episcopo, spoke about her mother's lasting impact, saying, "We know that as a donor, her organs helped three different people in improving, and possibly prolonging, their lives." Dr. Episcopo passed away in 2022 after being "completely committed to the NHS all her working life," according to her family.
Joanne Episcopo reflected on her mother's character and dedication to helping others, noting, "She would have been delighted about this, and possibly a little surprised that even at the age of 84 she was still helping people to have better lives." The sculpture serves as a powerful symbol of how people are connected through the extraordinary process of organ donation.
Artist David Murphy explained his inspiration for the work, stating, "I know first hand how important the circle of life is and wanted to show this through my art. I've chosen to entwine various organs into the brass to show how everyone is joined together through the extraordinary process of organ donation." His personal connection to organ donation through his sister's experience informed his artistic vision for the piece.
The impact of organ donation at Great Western Hospital has been substantial over recent years. In the past five years, 18 people have donated their organs posthumously at the facility, ultimately saving the lives of 47 others across the country. This remarkable statistic demonstrates the far-reaching effects of organ donation decisions made by families during difficult times.
England operates under an "opt-out" system for organ donation, meaning all adults are automatically considered potential donors unless they specifically register to opt out. However, healthcare officials encourage people to register their wishes on the NHS Organ Donor Register, as families of potential donors are always consulted before any donation procedures take place.
Dr. Malcolm Watters, a consultant anesthetist and chair of the Organ Donation Committee, emphasized the life-saving potential of organ donation. He explained that a single person could save "up to nine lives" by choosing to donate their organs after death. "Only a very small number of people die in a way that it is possible for them to be organ donors, so the more people who register as donors, the better chance we have of organ donation being possible," he said.
Currently, 93 people across Wiltshire are waiting for organ transplants, highlighting the ongoing need for organ donors in the region. The sculpture stands as both a tribute to those who have made the ultimate gift and a reminder of the lives that can be saved through organ donation decisions.
