A YOUNG woman who desperately needs a double lung transplant has today backed a new initiative unveiled by social networking site Facebook.

Kerry Thorpe, who was diagnosed with cystic fibrosis when she was six months old, faces a race against time to get a life-saving operation. And today, kind-hearted Kerry, who is determined to help others in her situation, has backed a new initiative which will allow Facebook users to showcase their organ donor status online.

The idea is part of a collaboration between Facebook and NHS Blood and Transplant (NHSBT) and aims to help boost the number of people on the Organ Donor Register.

Although users who click the health and wellbeing button will not have officially registered as a donor, it is hoped the feature will promote awareness of giving organs.

Miss Thorpe, 21, first appeared in the Ipswich Star last year when she told of her struggle to find a donor. Today, she said the scheme would help raise awareness of organ donation.

“I think it is a brilliant idea,” she said. “It would be great if it shows up on your Facebook when people become donors because it may encourage others to follow suit.”