A TRANSPLANT survivor has urged church leaders to think carefully before speaking publicly about plans for an opt-out system of organ donation.

Gloria Owens, who had a kidney transplant 30 years ago, warned that recent comments made about the proposed changes by the Archbishop of Cardiff George Stack, could be interpreted as the church's official position on the system, rather than an individual viewpoint.

The Welsh Government proposals are out for consultation until the end of January, and if legislation is approved, a soft opt-out system could come into effect by 2015.

But the Archbishop Stack declared his opposition to changes to the organ donation system, saying "our bodies are not an asset of the state", and added|: "Our organs should be donated as a gift to others, and not as a duty."

It follows similar comments made by Anglican Archbishop of Wales Barry Morgan.

Mrs Owens, from Sketty, who describes herself as a Christian, said the transplant she received had transformed her life, and the proposed opt-out system could save many more.

The former NHS admin worker said: "I am disappointed that learned men such as Archbishop Morgan and Archbishop Slack can demean this serious discussion on how to implement the soft opt out law in Wales. To use the terminology they have used is unworthy of them both.

"They are both high-profile, but speak as individuals and not for their churches. All Christian religions agree with organ donation, and to my knowledge, Christian religions have no official view on either the opt out or the opt in systems.

"Both men should make clear their opinions are their own. High profile church leaders should not scare monger in such a way — it might make people unsure if it is a good thing, and it is, for everyone."

Mrs Owens first became ill when she was 19, and for a number of years needed to undergo dialysis treatment three times a week, five hours at a time. At one stage, her weight dropped to six and a half stone, and husband John feared for her future.

She received a donor kidney at the age of 36, but despite having to leave her job, she threw herself into related volunteer work, including for the Welsh Kidney Patients Association, which was formed in 1996.

She added: "I have been lucky, and I want the same for other people. I have never known who my donor was, but I am obviously very grateful to them.

"The soft opt-out system is not just about kidney donation, but other organs too, including heart, lungs, liver, pancreas, eyes, and next of kin will still be consulted.

"It is good for the NHS too, and has the support of 80 per cent of people in Wales, according to recent surveys."

nino.williams@swwmedia.co.uk