Rocky Mountaineer hosted the Life Changing Train for Heroes to Canada over the past week, inviting organ donors, recipients and their families onboard a rail journey through Western Canada.
The tour, which began on September 14 in Vancouver, BC, and ends today in Lake Louise, Alberta, was held in order to honour and recognise the heroic decision to donate organs, with Australian transplant recipient Max Mohr included on the trip.
The Life Changing Train for Heroes program also raises awareness for the organisations that continue to provide assistance and encouragement of organ donations, and this year Rocky Mountaineer partnered with Transplant Australia to make the journey happen.
Sydney liver transplant recipient Max Mohr has been enjoying the train journey through the Canadian Rockies, while next year’s tour will host another Aussie hero Gordon Rutty.
“The goal of our new program is to give back to heroes and their families, who have sacrificed so much to help others,” president & CEO of Rocky Mountaineer Randy Powell said.
“We are delighted to show our gratitude to these heroes by giving them the opportunity to experience the magic onboard our train, where they will share time with loved ones traveling through some of the most stunning scenery in the world.”
Transplant Australia’s CEO Chris Thomas said the train journey provides an opportunity to promote organ and tissue donation on a broader, international scale.
“Transplantation has no boundaries,” he said. “It affects people from all walks of life, regardless of their race, the colour of their skin, age or religion.”
“Transplant Australia, as the Australian national community organisation for organ and tissue donation, would encourage everyone, no matter where in the world they are, to consider becoming an organ donor. It saves lives and helps families get their lives back on track.”
