Social worker Alina Mustata awarded MGH Hidden Hero award for helping families give the gift of life

Every year, thousands of people living in Ontario require tissue transplants. Currently there are over 1,500 people waiting for an organ transplant in Ontario.

Earlier this year, MGH was recognized by the Trillium Gift of Life Network (TGLN) for its ongoing support of organ and tissue donation and presented with the Provincial Conversion Rate award.

In 2017/18 TGLN, together with hospital partners such as MGH, contributed to saving 1,263 lives through organ transplantation and enhanced the lives of many through more than 2,100 tissue donations.

MGH Hidden Hero

Organ donation is a complex process and and many people are involved in making it happen. The MGH Hidden Hero award recognizes those individuals who work tirelessly behind the scenes to help families that are dealing with the difficult loss of a loved one, make the decision to allow their organs to give life to others. 

“Alina has on many occasions been the support person for families as they make what sometimes can be a very difficult decision.  She recently supported a family during the loss of their loved one,” says Marilyn Lee, manager, Intensive Care Unit. “Alina stayed with the family when they needed it most, even though it was far beyond the end of her work day.” 

Marilyn adds, “This compassionate and committed work is not always visible to others but we know it is appreciated by the families of organ donors.”