Toby and Bernadine Boulet, shown in a handout photo.THE CANADIAN PRESS/HO
Sandra LaRose's teenage daughter, Kailynn, expressed her wish to donate her organs, prompting her family, including her mother and step-father, to follow suit by affixing red and white stickers on their Saskatchewan health cards. Kailynn, a cheerful teenager from Tyvan, Sask., tragically lost her life at the age of 17 in a car accident caused by distracted driving. Despite the devastation, her decision to donate her organs provided solace to her grieving family and eased the process for hospital staff.
Kailynn's selfless act was inspired by the story of Logan Boulet, a defenseman for the Humboldt Broncos hockey team, who tragically passed away in a bus crash. Logan's decision to donate his organs prior to the accident saved six lives, becoming a catalyst for organ donation awareness in Canada. In honor of his legacy, April 7th has been designated as Green Shirt Day, encouraging individuals to register as organ donors and discuss their decision with their families.
The initiative, led by Logan's parents and the Canadian Transplant Association, emphasizes the importance of open conversations about organ donation. Supporters are urged to wear green on Green Shirt Day, with various events and activities planned across the country to raise awareness about organ donation.
In addition to wearing green, schools have played a pivotal role in educating children about organ donation through art and storytelling. Kathleen Fleming, director of the British Columbia branch of the Canadian Transplant Association, notes the increased participation of schools in Green Shirt Day activities. Students are engaged in creative projects and educational sessions to learn about the significance of organ donation.
One of the resources used in schools is "The Ant Who Needed a Transplant," a book that explains organ donation in an age-appropriate manner. Bernadine Boulet, Logan's mother and a Grade 2 teacher, has introduced her students to the Mighty Orgamites, animated characters representing various organs and tissues. These initiatives aim to normalize discussions about organ donation and empower children to make informed decisions.
Bernadine recalls the night of the bus crash when doctors informed her and her husband, Toby Boulet, about Logan's irreversible brain stem injury. Despite the devastating news, Bernadine remembered Logan's wish to donate his organs, which he had expressed to his father months earlier. Logan's decision to register as an organ donor on his 21st birthday exemplified his selflessness and desire to make a difference.
Following Logan's passing, his parents received letters from two anonymous recipients who received Logan's heart and kidney. While they remain unaware of the recipients' identities, they are grateful that Logan's decision has allowed others to lead healthier lives.
Organ donation has become increasingly accessible in Canada, with residents from all provinces able to register online through their respective transplant associations. The province of Nova Scotia has adopted an opt-out system for organ donation, underscoring the importance of discussing one's wishes with family members.
Green Shirt Day serves as a poignant reminder of the lifesaving impact of organ donation and honors the legacies of individuals like Logan and Kailynn, who selflessly gave the gift of life to others.
