Remembering Alan Skippen who died at Ipswich Hospital to mark Organ Donation Week starting on September 18
The widow of an engineer who donated his organs, transforming the lives of at least three people, has spoken of her pride at the legacy he has left.
Alan Skippen, 72, died at Ipswich Hospital in January 2022, following a bleed on the brain.
Just four months before, the long term blood donor, who lived near Hadleigh, told his wife Jenny that he wanted to donate his organs.
Sharing her husband’s story in the run up to Organ Donation Week, Jenny explained: “Alan was a keen blood donor and was quietly proud of donating 89 units during his lifetime, so it was unsurprising when he agreed to have his organs harvested.”
“That made it was easy for us as a family when we were approached about donation as we knew it was what he wanted.”
“I have since received cards from two of the recipients, which was wonderful. It somehow made it more personal to know that part of Alan had given people and their families their lives back.
“We are so proud of Alan. We have lost him and still grieve for him, but what a legacy to leave. It’s the gift that keeps on giving.”
Alan’s kidneys were used to help two men in their 70s, while his liver saved the life of a 50-year-old who had been given one month to live. His corneas were also harvested to help people with sight problems.
Jenny and Alan’s sons Mark, Simon and Paul, together with their wives and Alan’s grandchildren, now wear the golden heart pin, which is given to donor families by NHS Blood and Transplant, to help start conversations around the importance of organ donation.
“We wear our golden heart badges with pride,” said Jenny who fostered more than 20 children with Alan during their 50-year-marriage.
“If we are asked what it symbolises, we explain how selfless our husband, brother, dad and grandad was.”
She added: “This is particularly true of Simon and his wife Vicki, who work on the frontline of the NHS.
“When they talk to the families of patients who are unfortunately not going to survive, they wear the golden heart and explain how organ donation can turn something utterly terrible into something where some good can be salvaged.”
“I would actively encourage everybody to talk to their nearest and dearest while they are fit and well.
“Have that conversation now so if the unthinkable does happen, everyone is clear about what their loved one wanted.”
Organ Donation Week begins on Monday, September 18, more information can be found on the NHS Organ Donation website.
