Dave gave the ultimate gift – life

Dave Perrottet, from Berkhamsted, died aged 73 in December 2013 of a sudden brain haemorrhage, and was discovered at home by wife Liz.

The 68 year old says losing her former BBC producer husband – who had been retired for more than 20 years – was a dreadful shock, but takes some comfort in the fact two people who were on the brink of death are now healthy again thanks to his status as an organ donor.

Liz said: “I feel very strongly that Dave’s story should be highlighted, it’s the most amazing thing to have done.

“I have believed in organ donation for a long time and have kept a card on me for many years. When I was helping him renew his driving licence I said, how about ticking the box?”

Dave had an interest in researching and collecting wine, enjoyed golf and was a railway and train enthusiast along with Liz. Prior to his death, he had been diagnosed in the early stages of dementia, but multi-talented Dave was also a keen jazz musician and played the trombone.

His liver and one kidney were used to save the lives of others – one of whom was in a critical condition and dependent on dialysis to remain alive.

Liz has received regular updates about both recipients and is pleased to report they are both doing extremely well.

She said: “Dave saved the lives of two people – both had families. They got their loved ones back.

“It has helped me enormously knowing that these two people have got a life.”

Dave was honoured along with eight other people who gave the ultimate gift of life through organ donation at an award ceremony in Herts.

They each received The Order of St John award for Organ Donation, run in conjunction with NHS Blood and Transplant, but Liz believes the practice should be even more widespread in the county.

She said: “People are amazed to hear that Dave’s organs could still be used at 73.

“You never know when anything is going to happen.

“Just tick the box on the register, because we never know.”

To join the NHS Organ Donor Register, visit organdonation.nhs.uk or call 0300 123 2323 or text SAVE to 62323.