It has been five years today (May 25) since I donated a kidney to someone whose profile I saw on Facebook who was looking for a kidney. Although he and I were not a match, my willingness to donate meant that we could be part of a paired exchange; my kidney went to someone who was a match, while he received a kidney from someone who was a match for him. Altogether, there were three donors and three recipients. We will be celebrating our five-year anniversary in a few weeks with a lunch in Cleveland.
Unfortunately, the person who received the kidney that I donated passed away 15 months after the surgery, but not from kidney disease. I did feel somewhat cheated that he and I did not get to know each other better; the surgeries took place during the COVID years and it was difficult to meet up. Over the last few years since his passing, I have stayed in touch with his family; my wife and I even went to visit them at their second home in France. I also know that the time after his surgery was transformative for him and his relationship with his family. I do not feel like my donation was “wasted.” There are no guarantees in life.
The person for whom I donated is doing great. He continues to be in wonderful condition. We talk a few times each year by telephone and when he is in Cleveland we try to get together for lunch–although without too much success. It is OK that we are not “besties,” as I did not do this so that I could get something out of it; I just wanted to help someone if I could.
As for me, after the first month or two, I felt myself really coming back to “normal.” My kidney function levels have continued to improve as the remaining kidney his grown to pick up the slack. There were a few side-effects–one that required a minor outpatient procedure–but otherwise I am in good health. I work out at least five times per week and my lab results are normal for my age.
People ask me if I would do it all over again. The answer is “no;” that is, of course, because I only have one kidney left and I need it for me! I am glad that I did it; it was one of the most difficult and rewarding experiences of my life.
It is not often that we get the chance to save a life. I encourage those who might consider this to do some research; you can contact me as well. It won’t be easy, but you won’t regret it either.
Kosher Fitness 