The speech "Have a Heart" discusses the importance and impact of becoming an organ donor. The speaker shares personal experiences and reflections, starting with their initial hesitation towards organ donation and how a persuasive speech by a pharmacist, Donna McKoy, changed their perspective. The speech highlights the pressing need for organ donation programs, especially in countries like Jamaica, where high rates of diabetes and hypertension lead to organ failure.
The speaker recounts their decade-long journey of trying to establish an organ donation program in Jamaica, facing numerous challenges and setbacks, including bureaucratic resistance. However, the speech also includes a success story of a friend who received a life-saving kidney transplant, demonstrating the profound impact of organ donation on individuals' lives.
The speech concludes with a recent renewed effort to create Jamaica’s first bone bank, supported by prominent figures in the medical and legal fields. The speaker emphasizes the global need for organ donors, citing statistics from the USA, European Union, and South Africa, and advocates for public education and legislative changes to encourage organ donation.
The speaker calls on the audience to consider becoming organ donors, sharing inspirational messages and practical steps towards making a difference. The speech is a heartfelt appeal to save lives through organ donation, underlining the theme with a mix of personal anecdotes, statistical data, and motivational encouragement.
Robert Scott is a seasoned executive with extensive experience in networking, fiscal responsibility, and market development. As General Manager of Lifespan Co. Ltd. since 2020, he restored profitability, expanded sales channels, and increased exports. Previously, he managed Hilda Transportation Ltd. and ARC Manufacturing Ltd., where he achieved significant cost reductions and ISO certification. At JAMPRO, he led multi-sector initiatives and secured funding for export development. Robert holds an MBA from Manchester Business School and a B.Sc. from the University of the West Indies. He is also a Certified International Trade Professional and holds leadership roles in several organizations, including the Jamaica Olympic Association and the Consular Corps of Jamaica. This talk was given at a TEDx event using the TED conference format but independently organized by a local community. Learn more at www.ted.com/tedx