‘Because of You’ was inspired by Rose’s brother Tim who passed away in 2022 and became an organ donor.
When Rose was asked to perform at the Opening Ceremony of the World Transplant Games in Perth in 2023, the song virtually wrote itself. She is now honoured to introduce the song to a whole new audience in Canberra at this year’s Australian Transplant Games.
Rose said: “It is in loving memory of my brother Tim who suddenly and tragically passed in 2022 and gave the gift of life through organ donation.
“We didn’t have to make the decision because our brother Tim was a registered organ donor. He had ticked all the boxes and all the preparation we had was when he said, ‘I’m an organ donor, because where I’m going, I’m not going to need them. So, someone here may as well have them’.
“But it is both an ode to honour donors and donor families and an anthem to express the joy and gratitude expressed in the lives of recipients. This is so apparent at the Transplant Games where we witness people living their best lives and participating in life in ways they never thought would be possible.”
The opening Ceremony of the Games will be held at Stage 88 inside Floriade – our nation’s celebration of spring – on Wednesday, October 2 at 10am. At 9.30am the Games Parade will wind its way through the stunning tulip gardens of Floriade.
Transplant Australia CEO, Chris Thomas, was delighted that such an inspirational singer had agreed to relive the magic of the World Games in Perth now in Canberra at the Australian Games.
“Across the world, people have been inspired by Rose, her song and her story-telling straight from the heart. It is impossible to listen to this song and not be moved by her personal story,” Mr Thomas said.
“We need more Australians to register as donors, to understand the life-saving benefits of donation, and what better way than through the power of song. That’s why we are pleased to announce that Transplant Australia and Rose Parker will release the song to the world via Spotify to celebrate Thank You Day this November.”
To find out more about the 2024 Australian Transplant Games Opening Ceremony CLICK HERE.
