I feel compelled to respond to the May 28 letter by Jerald Anderson, president/CEO of the Regional Organ Bank of Illinois (ROBI), but before I do, I would like to thank Stephen J. Hedges and William Gaines for their very informative, two-part investigative report on organ donations (Page 1, May 21 and 22). I cannot count the number of people who have called or contacted me to extend moral support over what amounts to a very serious breach of trust associated with an act of charity and kindness.
The Chicago Tribune reporters were right when they mentioned that I was outraged upon finding out how my father’s donated organs and pilfered tissues were processed and distributed. But I am absolutely amazed over why Mr. Anderson would feel compelled in his letter to defend himself and ROBI–unless, of course, he realizes that he and ROBI are part of the problem and not part of the solution.
Mr. Anderson mentions that ROBI is a not-for-profit organ and tissue procurement organization. But he does not mention whether or not it sells organs and tissues to for-profit companies. He talks about the improved quality of life that results from organ donations, but he does not mention the people who die from the improper processing of these organs.
My father would turn over in his grave if he found out that someone had died as a result of his charitable act of kindness.
Mr. Anderson mentions that donation is “a trust-based system” and that he feels a tremendous responsibility toward donor families. Please tell that to the people who have called me complaining about the $100,000-plus worth of hospital bills they are faced with–after their dearly beloved pass away. When we are speaking about the dignity, sanctity and preservation of human life, the end does not justify the means.
