J M Kayshana, 15

School: St. Margaret's School (Secondary)

Topic: An email to a classmate on your thoughts on pledging under MTERA and how to respectfully discuss organ donation with his parents.

Decision between HOTA and MTERA

Dear Nate,

I am really glad that you are taking organ donation seriously after the talk we had that day in class and are even willing to discuss it with your parents. Honestly, I really admire your courage because not many people our age would be willing to bring up such an important and sensitive topic at home. Organ donation is something that can truly change or even save someone’s life, which is why I can understand why you feel that pledging under MTERA is the right choice. At the same time, though, I also think it is important to understand your parents’ concerns before trying to persuade them immediately.

Besides understanding the differences between HOTA and MTERA, I think it is also important for you to think carefully about what your own heart and mind truly feel is right. When you are confident and certain about your decision, it becomes easier to explain your thoughts calmly and maturely to your parents. I feel that this can also give both you and your parents a greater peace of mind, as they would know that you did not make this decision impulsively, but after seriously thinking it through.

Firstly, there is an important difference between remaining under the Human Organ Transplant Act (HOTA) and choosing to pledge under MTERA. HOTA is an “opt out” system, meaning Singapore Citizens and Permanent Residents aged 21 and above are automatically included unless they choose to withdraw. Under this scheme, organs such as the kidneys, liver, heart and corneas may be donated after death for transplant purposes.

MTERA, however, is completely voluntary. People aged 18 and above can choose to donate a wider range of organs and tissues not only for transplants, but also for medical research, therapy and education. To me, this makes MTERA feel more personal and meaningful because it reflects a person’s conscious decision to continue helping others even after death.

I can honestly understand why you support MTERA so strongly. Besides helping patients who are desperately waiting for transplants, donations can also help doctors and researchers improve treatments and make medical breakthroughs in the future. Just thinking about how one person could save or impact so many lives is honestly very touching to me. Even after someone passes on, a part of them is still giving hope to others. I think that is one of the most selfless things a person could ever do.

At the same time, I also feel that your parents’ concerns should not be ignored or brushed aside. For many people, conversations about death are uncomfortable and emotional. Some parents may worry that organ donation could affect funeral arrangements or go against certain religious or cultural beliefs. Others may feel uneasy about donating organs for research and education because they may see it as disrespectful to the body. Since older generations tend to hold more traditional beliefs, I think their hesitation is understandable.

There are also many myths about organ donation that should be clarified. One common misconception is that doctors may not try their best to save someone who is a registered donor. However, this is not true at all because doctors will always prioritise saving the patient’s life first. In fact, the transplant team is completely separate from the medical team treating the patient.

Another myth is that organ donation badly disfigures the body. In reality, the procedures are done professionally and respectfully, and families are still able to hold proper funeral services afterwards. Some people may also think that they are too old or unhealthy to donate, but doctors will only determine whether the organs are suitable at the time of death.

When talking to your parents, I think the most important thing is to stay calm, respectful, and patient. Avoid sounding too forceful or making them feel pressured into agreeing with you immediately. Organ donation is a deeply personal matter, so naturally they may need some time to process their thoughts and feelings. Instead of arguing with them, try listening to their concerns first and reassuring them with facts and understanding.

You could also share real stories about patients whose lives were saved because of organ donors. Sometimes, hearing a real human story can touch people more deeply than facts or statistics ever could. Most importantly, do not dismiss your parents’ beliefs or make them feel like their worries are unreasonable. Showing empathy and maturity will make them more willing to listen to your perspective too.

Ultimately, I believe that pledging under MTERA is a brave and compassionate decision because it allows someone to continue helping society even after death. Beyond saving lives through organ transplants, donors can also contribute towards medical advancements that may help future generations. However, I also believe that decisions like this should come from honest conversations, mutual respect, and understanding within the family.

I truly hope your conversation with your parents goes well. Regardless of what the final decision may be, I think the fact that you are willing to have such a meaningful and difficult conversation already says a lot about your character. It shows kindness, maturity, and genuine concern for other people’s lives. More importantly, I really admire your bravery to speak up about something so personal and sensitive. Honestly, not many people our age would dare to do that, and I genuinely find it very inspiring.

Yours sincerely,
Kayshana

Disclaimer: Please note that the views and opinions expressed in the essays for the Live On Festival 2026 are those of the participants and are not endorsed by the National Organ Transplant Unit (Ministry of Health).

To learn more about organ donation and organ transplantation in Singapore, please visit www.liveon.gov.sg ↗ (opens in new tab)