By Olivia Condous
A Melton man is encouraging people to register as an organ and tissue donor by sharing his own inspiring journey that turned his life around.
Adam Burrage was the recipient of a medical tissue donation that enabled to follow his dream career in the media industry.
The 48-year-old was diagnosed with an eye disease called keratoconus in his early twenties, which caused him to almost totally lose his eyesight.
“It all came crashing down because of losing my eyesight, it’s quite disheartening and depressing to give up your dream job as well… that was a big loss,” Mr Burrage said.
After receiving two corneal transplants from two donors, he regained his vision and was able to return to working as a camera operator and start up his own photography business.
Mr Burrage said he saw having a second chance as a “great opportunity”.
“The confidence it’s given me as a person… to have control back and to do what I love, is a huge plus,” he said.
Since restarting his career, Mr Burrage’s work as a photographer has seen him photograph high-profile Australian figures, such as Dennis Walter and Daryl Braithwaite.
“My photography business, it started as a hobby and to grow to the size it is, is just phenomenal,” he said.
Mr Burrage encouraged everyone to register as an organ and tissue donor, to make a difference in someone else’s life.
“It gives someone else a better opportunity and gives them opportunities to do more with their life.”
To learn more about becoming an organ and tissue donor, visit donatelife.gov.au.
