Copyright 2003, Roadracing World Publishing, Inc.

This is a response to the proposed “organ donor” bill in New Mexico, and the letter from Mike Hughes. As a lifelong motorcyclist, I must say that I totally agree with Mr. Hurt’s proposed bill, regarding organ donorship from non-helmet wearing riders.

I truly believe in freedom of choice. However, I also believe in Darwin’s theory of natural selection, and the fact that we reap what we sow.
The odds of a biker being killed without a helmet are much, much greater than a rider wearing a helmet. If a rider chooses to ride without a helmet, then they are accepting the risk. The taxpaying public should not have to shoulder the financial burden for the transportation and care of an for an injured, under-insured, or under-educated rider, as they often do. To be fair, in return for the freedom to choose not to wear a helmet, they should offer to give something back, something that will actually make a difference by saving lives.

This sounds like a fair trade to me. Besides, why would you need your organs if you’re dead? To keep them would be totally selfish. If you do not agree, then wear a helmet.

Then you can keep your organs to yourselves. But if you accept the risk of riding without a helmet, then you should offer your life-saving organs in trade.

I will gladly sign my organs over to somebody else who may need them if I die. However, I will also choose to wear a helmet when I ride. As a result, I most likely will never even have to worry about the issue.

Howard Halterman
Fairfield California



Just thought I would give my two cents worth. Harvesting organs from people who do not consent is a slap in the face to the whole system. People should make their thoughts and wishes known to their family. If and only if they want their organs donated should they be taken. After all I should know, I have been an avid motorcyclist and heart transplant recipient for almost 20 years now. By the way my heart came from a signed donor on a motorcycle.

Chris Fisher
Bathurst, New Brunswick, Canada




Just a few thoughts on mandatory organ harvesting, helmetless, helmeted, seat belted or not.

The good that comes from organ harvesting far out weights any argument against it!

You are DEAD when the organs are taken, your loved ones can still have what ever funeral they choose.

YES,I am saying it should be mandatory when you die.

Terry Milligan
London, Ontario, Canada



(See other posts, 1/30/2003 AMA Objects To New Mexico Bill Which Effectively Classifies Helmetless Street Riders As Organ Donors and 1/31/2003 Reader Comments On New Mexico’s Proposed Forced Organ Donation Program.)