But he was concerned to learn that the rate of donations had decreased in 2014. 

The latest data from the Organ and Tissue Transplant Authority shows that 1117 Australians received the gift of life last year from 378 donors which is down 3 per cent on 2013. 

“It’s very humbling to know that someone died for me to receive that kidney,” Mr Holden said.

“You try to live your life well to honour their memory even though you’ve never met them.”

Mr Holden was born with Alport syndrome – a genetic condition that affects the kidneys and their ability to filter waste.

He started dialysis shortly after his 21st birthday and received the transplant about 18 months later at the John Hunter Hospital in early 2002. 

Before the transplant, Mr Holden was having kidney dialysis three times a week.  

Since the transplant, he and wife Katrina have had a son Isaac, 7, and daughter, Ava, 4.

“[Having children is] something I never thought I could do,” Mr Holden said.

The condition has also affected the 35-year-old’s eyes and he recently had cataract surgery. 

“People need to discuss their [donation] wishes with their loved ones,” he said.

“Their family can still veto the decision.”

Hunter New England local health district donation specialist Jeanette Lacey is based at the John Hunter Hospital.

“In December, there were approximately 1700 people waiting for life-saving organ transplants in Australia. This includes kidneys, liver, heart, lungs and pancreas,” she said.

“Continuing to increase organ donation rates both locally and nationally really does rely on the willingness of the community to know and uphold donation decisions for their loved one.”

Health Minister Jillian Skinner has urged people to have that difficult organ donation conversation.

She said almost 40 per cent of potential NSW donors were lost last year when family withdrew consent after their loved ones had died.

“The majority of families who did not consent for organ donation felt unprepared for the decision and did not know their loved one’s wishes,” she said. 

“This highlights the importance of family discussion about organ donation decisions.”

For information visit www.donatelife.gov.au.