Did you know that there are over 100,000 people on the kidney transplant list and every month, about 3000 more are added. My decision to be tested and become a donor was determined by my sympathy of not wanting my niece to go through Peritoneal Dialysis everyday. Through my experiences and conversations with professionals in the field, I have come up with six points to guide your decision on becoming a Living Donor.
1. Don’t start the process if you’re not 100% sure you want to do this.
Be absolutely sure this is what you want before deciding to get tested. I have seen articles by some (although few)who regret their decision to donate. If you’re not sure before you get tested and you find out you’re a match, you might be obligated to go through with the procedure for fear of letting the loved one down. So, before you embark upon this life changing experience, be absolutely sure this is what you want to do.
2. Do not tell the recipient until you’re sure you’re a match
Telling the recipient ahead of time only gives them false hope if it turns out you’re not a match. Hold off and wait to give them the good surprising news. In my case, telling the recipient, my niece, and my sister resulted in tears of joy by both.
3. Involve a loved one or two in your decision and evaluation process
Even if you’re not telling the recipient, you should still involve a loved one in this journey with you. The loved one could be a best friend, sibling or spouse. In my case, I involved my spouse and younger sister because my decision was huge and would affect the lives of those close to me.
4. Make sure you have a support system for recovery, it might mean wage losses
It’s important to have a support system to help you during recuperation because of weight restrictions as well as, in some cases, wage loss. Not all jobs will cover the four to six weeks that you’ll be off work to recuperate. If you will lose income, it’s important to plan ahead on how to supplement that income so you’re not bitter about your choice.
5. You have to be alright if the kidney is rejected
You have to be aware that in some instances, the kidney is rejected by the recipient’s body. You have to be mentally prepared of this possibility. If you feel it would have been a waste of your time and organ should this happen, then kidney donation is not for you. Your attitude going into this process should be that at least you tried.
6. Remember you’re giving the gift of life
Finally, it helps to know that you’re giving the gift of life. Studies have shown that dialysis, though life-saving, can lead to patients being too sick to be good transplant candidates. For me, that point was a reality when I met the Nephrologist for the first time and he thanked me for donating because it is giving the gift of life.
If you have more questions on this process that will help in your decision, do not hesitate to leave your questions in the comments, and I will be glad to answer them.
