Runcorn family appeals for more organ donors after successful charity night

Much-loved dad-of-three Paul Furfie, aged 55, died in January, last year after an accident at home.

His liver and kidneys were donated to save the lives of two men, aged 55 and 70.

His widow, Lorraine organised a memorial night in memory of Paul at The Quayside on Friday and raised £2,160 for the charity, Donor Family Network.

She is now encouraging everyone to consider becoming an organ donor after many of Paul’s relatives and friends have signed up.

Celebrities and sports clubs donated prizes to raffle and auction.

Top Runcorn comic John Bishop gave a pair of tickets for his new tour and heavyweight champion boxer Tony Bellew donated boxing gloves.

Lorraine, aged 54, who lives off Halton Road, said: “It is tragic that we lost Paul but rewarding to know that he went on to help two other people. They can live their lives again. It’s a comfort knowing that a little part of Paul is still alive.

“We’ve received a lovely anonymous letter from the kidney recipient.

“We have a fantastic transplant nurse who has been with us every step of the way.”

Paul, manager of Apec Taxis, had had a successful triple by-pass six months before he died.

Lorraine said: “He had returned to work and was hoping to get back into gardening. He gave everything to his job and his family.”

Paul was working on the house when he had his accident.

Lorraine said: “We think he may have touched a wire and was thrown back. It blew the electrics. He banged his head.

“He was still conscious and trying to continue with the job but he seemed disorientated. It all happened so fast.”

Paul, who was on warfarin, was taken to the Walton Centre.

Lorraine added: “He had a catastrophic bleed. There was no recovery. Paul unfortunately deteriorated on life support.

“I mentioned organ donation and we found out that Paul was already on the organ register.

“Nobody likes to think about dying but I can’t emphasise enough how important it is to discuss your wishes with your family.

“There is a loophole. Even though you may wish to donate your organs, your family can go against this after your death.”

Lorraine and her three sons, Ben, aged 29, Tim, aged 27, and Jack, aged 25, wanted to fulfil Paul’s wishes.

She added: “I can’t thank people enough for their support. We have been overwhelmed by everyone’s generosity. Our charity night was a sell out.

“People often say they want to donate their organs but they never get round to it. Now, it is so easy. You can do it online. A few minutes of your time could give someone who needs a transplant a new life.”