Police Service Champions Living Organ Donation

The Saskatoon Police Service has been lauded for its commitment to supporting employees who choose to become live organ donors. This recognition comes as the service officially joins the Kidney Foundation of Canada's Living Donor Circle of Excellence program.

Under this new program, police service employees who donate a solid organ, such as a kidney, partial liver, or lung, will be guaranteed paid time off. This leave will cover at least 80 percent of their wages during the recovery period following the donation.

This significant policy shift was prompted by an internal request from Const. Chris Martin, who wished to donate a kidney to a friend. His action highlighted the potential financial burdens faced by donors.

Police Chief Cameron McBride expressed his admiration for Const. Martin and emphasized the service's commitment to making organ donation more accessible for all its members. He stated that supporting such life-saving acts is the right thing to do.

Const. Martin shared that the employer's support was crucial, removing a major barrier and allowing donors to focus on their health. Errin Willenborg of the Kidney Foundation of Canada noted that financial concerns are a primary obstacle to living organ donation. The police service's policy directly addresses this by alleviating financial stress, thereby encouraging more individuals to give the gift of life.