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What is the Living Donor Process Like?
Transplants | Last Active: Aug 9, 2021 | Replies (119)Comment receiving replies
I have a friend with end stage kidney disease. I couldn't imagine a person the age of my son dying at the age of 52. I am 70 years old and didn't think I would be able to donate to him. I filled up the questions on line. Christine, the transplant coordinator at the Mayo Clinic Florida called me to ask some questions. I didn't know my blood type, so she sent me a blood kit. I took it to the lab and after done they sent it back to Mayo. She called me a few days later and told me I was a match. They scheduled a week of testing. I never thought it would be so intense. I think i did very well in all the tests. The next one I need to have is a colonoscopy Tuesday. After that, they will let me know if it's a go. I am so excited, hope I can pass all the tests for the surgery. I am not afraid, I am praying and waiting.
Replies to "I have a friend with end stage kidney disease. I couldn't imagine a person the age..."
Hi @mycase1968, I would like to add my welcome to you. You'll notice that I moved your message to this existing discussion about the living donor process. Click VIEW & REPLY to see the past posts from other members who, like you, are going through evaluation.
Congratulations on being a match for your friend. What an incredible gift you are giving. Your sharing your experiences as you go through the testing and evaluation process will be so helpful for others who are considering living donation. You're right that it is intense. They want to ensure that everything is top notch for you and for your friend the recipient.
You may also be interested in this related discussion:
- Kidney transplant: Thinking of becoming a donor https://connect.mayoclinic.org/discussion/kidney-transplant-3/
And should you get through the evaluation process and be ready to donate, you'll most certainly appreciate connecting with members in this discussion:
- Kidney transplant – The Journey from the Donor's Side – https://connect.mayoclinic.org/discussion/kidney-transplant-from-the-donor-side/
All the best with the colonoscopy next week. The prep is the most challenging part. I never thought it would be so hard to drink fluids. But in the grand scheme of things, that's nothing. For someone thinking of starting the donor process, what would be your advice or tip to get started?
@mycase1968, It has been a while since you have posted and I want to check in with you. Have you found out anything about the possibility of donating a kidney?
Please know that whether or not you are approved, you have already earned the "hero" status for your willingness. We would love to hear from you.
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@mycase1968 people like you amaze me and encourage me. Thank you that you are willing to make such a loving donation. I have had kidney problems for 4 years and have been on the waiting list for a transplant for 1 year. I pray that you will pass all the tests and if you can donate, that all may go well with you and your recipient.