I don't write on topics that require a lot of urgency. But in 'Stiff,' I wanted to change people's hearts about organ donation. Whenever I get a chance, I try to talk about that.
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I have a call to speak, to write, to do sort of deep-heart surgery in people's lives.
As a child, I had no interest in science whatsoever - then I started writing and recognized how relevant it was. My first book about science and medicine captured the world of organ transplantation in 1989 from the points of view of all of the participants - scientists, surgeons, social workers, organ recipients and even donor families.
When my father passed away, he had his organs donated. In that painful moment, I was deeply comforted knowing that my father would be able to give others a second chance at life. That is why I encourage everyone to sign up to be a donor.
The gift that has been given to me says much about our capacity for great compassion and generosity, and I hope it sends an inspiring message to others about the importance of organ donation.
Organ donation is very personal to me. My mother, before her death, was on kidney dialysis for several years.
I think that my work is my attempt, I suppose, is to try and become a piece of connective tissue. I'm trying to communicate with people here and in America - in rich countries - about what I see on the ground in badly affected areas.
I'm trying to talk about challenging subjects people might not like and trying to find relief as we discuss it.
My goal is to spread the word about the need for more blood donors.
I think I'm drawn to writing about something which feels intense and important.
Since I'm not a journalist, I talk about issues that encourage an interchange of ideas through conversation while also being entertaining.
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