Beth and Malcolm Owen are advocating for organ donation after their 18-year-old daughter, Menna, donated her heart and lungs following her death on March 1, 2025. Menna collapsed at the family's home in Tonteg, Rhondda Cynon Taf, and later died in hospital. The couple have since received letters from the recipients of Menna's organs, who are reportedly doing well. "Perhaps Menna's purpose was to make an incredible difference to us every day of her life, and to save lives in her death," Beth Owen stated.
National Organ Donation Trends
Menna's story emerges amid a concerning drop in family consent for organ donation across the UK. Figures indicate a nearly 20% decrease over five years, falling from 69% in the 2020-21 period to 57% in 2025-26. In response to this decline, the National Health Service (NHS) aims to increase the number of people registered as organ donors by one million. Health experts are urging the public not only to express their intention to donate but also to communicate their wishes to their families.
Circumstances of Menna's Death
Beth Owen recounted that on the day of Menna's collapse, the 18-year-old, who had epilepsy that was described as "well controlled," had gone to lie down after finishing work. Beth initially assumed her daughter was tired due to long working hours. She later discovered Menna in the bathroom, experiencing cardiac arrest. Medical professionals determined Menna had suffered a catastrophic brain injury from which recovery was not possible.