Letter: Moralist medics lose a donor

Sir:I have carried a donor card for many years, but I intend to destroy it, in protest at the attitude of Michelle Paul's surgeon, and that of other doctors, as described by Glenda Cooper ("Should those who abuse their bodies pay the price?", 28 January).

I have always assumed that after my death my organs would go to the most suitable recipient on the waiting list, irrespective of her/his demographic background or lifestyle. I find it intolerable that some self-righteous surgeon should deprive someone of the chance of life which a part of my body might give.

I am a lifelong moderate drinker and smoker, so I particularly object to actions which discriminate against people who share my taste in these matters. Apart from the ethical considerations, it is possible that organs accustomed to dealing with gin and nicotine might be less likely to be rejected by such people.

AUDREY HUNT

Woodford Green, Essex