THE parents of a North Yorkshire teenager whose donated organs and tissue helped six other people have launched a Tree of Life to mark Transplant Donation Week.

Anthea and David Traher, both 49, of Valley Mount, Harrogate, made the decision to allow their son Philip's organs to be used after the 13-year-old suffered terrible head injuries when he was in collision with a car in 1996.

The heartbreaking decision meant that at least six other people were given life-saving or life-changing treatment using organs and tissues from Philip's body.

On Monday Mr and Mrs Traher, together with their sons David and Andrew, aged 17 and 12, helped to unveil a Tree of Life - a framed cross section of an English oak tree - that features leaf shaped plaques with the name of each donor from Harrogate District Hospital.

Philip's name was the first to appear on the tree.

Mrs Traher said the symbolic plaque would make her feel proud, as well as sad.

She said: "Apart from massive head injuries there was nothing wrong with Philip. Not to donate would have been a waste. We never had any doubts.

"Especially when it's a child, it's the worst thing that can happen to you - you can't describe the feelings.

"But had Philip been in hospital because he needed a transplant we would've wanted someone else to donate.

"If you are willing to accept, you have to be willing to give as well."

Monday marked the beginning of Transplant Donation Week, with events planned to promote all aspects of organ donation and transplantation.

A display and information stand was being put on view in the main entrance of Harrogate District Hospital today and tomorrow for anyone who wishes to find out more.

The success of transplantation depends entirely on the generosity of donors and their families. During 2002/3 the organs from 745 people who died were used to save and dramatically improve many lives through 2247 operations.

Despite a six per cent increase in the number of transplants performed, more than 5,600 people are waiting and almost 400 die every year on the list.

In Yorkshire and North Lincolnshire there are currently over 450 people waiting for a transplant.

For more information contact the Organ Donor Line on 0845 60 60 400 or visit www.uktransplant.org.uk

Updated: 08:34 Thursday, July 10, 2003