Today’s guest is Heidi Castleden from Hovell’s Creek near Boorowa in southern New South Wales.

On two occasions – an organ donated from a stranger – has saved her life.

The first time was when she was just 15 and the second was when she was 31.

At 15 years of age, after years and years of unsolved medical ailments, Heidi received a diagnosis of a rare congenital liver disease. She was told she would need a transplant in 5 to 10 years but the need came much quicker.

Heidi’s life has been spent managing, waiting and overcoming a myriad of health setbacks for herself and her family. But not for one moment, will she be defined by this. In fact, she told me that some of her friends might be surprised when they hear the finer details of her story.

This week is Organ Donation Week in Australia – the week in which we are all encouraged to speak with our loved ones about organ donation – and to register if that’s what we decide we want to do. You can find out more at donatelife.gov.au

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