Spike in Alberta's drug poisoning fatalities includes many organ donors

The number of deceased organs donors who died from drug poisonings is increasing in Alberta as toxic supply increases fatalities and emergency calls.

The number of deceased organ donors who died from drug poisonings is increasing in Alberta as toxic supply increases fatalities and emergency calls.

Alberta Health Services (AHS) data shows the last three years have seen a noticeable spike as far as donors are concerned.

In 2022, 34 of the 97 deceased donors – 35 per cent – died from drug poisonings. That's up from 2019, when the number was only nine of 69 donors – or 13 per cent.

The increase coincides with a higher overall total for organ donations.

"The gift of organ donation, regardless of the cause of death, saves lives and significantly improves the quality of life for many Albertans," AHS told CTV News in a statement.

Zoe Welz lost her life to a poisoned supply when she was just 18.

Seven years later, her mother is advocating for change.