Hi all, been a while but I e been living a new life. As some of you may be aware, my brother was going through the matching process to donate a kidney to me. I had an appt with my neph on the 28th July then went a nice holiday to Washington DC for 3 weeks. During that time my neph contacted me to say my function was 5%. And to contact him when I got back. Within 3 days of returning I had a new kidney with kidney function of 70%. I’ve had ups and down, unrelated infections due to other health issues which resulted in 3 x 1 week course of iv antibiotics. But on the whole o line a normal life. I’m not sick twice a day. I don’t need a sleep every 3 hours and I feel I have my life back. I knew I was Ill before but I had no idea how bad. Both my brother and I are back at work gettingbon with things.
That is wonderful news. I am so happy you are doing better. I did have a silly question though. What are the tests you gave to do to see if you are a match?
I'm so happy for you. That was very quick! It sound as though you have got your life back. I thought the process took much longer. And how wonderful that your brother was able to donate a kidney to you. My very best wishes to you both.
In total Lyn it took a year. Started the checks when I was at 11%
Hi jb. It’s a year long process. Initially it was bloods. That was my total involvement. They test tissue type, blood type and something else. Lol. Can’t remember. But you get a 3 figure score based on compatibility from these tests. 0,0,0 being an identical twin to 3,3,3 being a total no match. Any 3 is a no no. Normal matches range from 1,1,1 . 2,1,2. 2,2,1. Etc to 2,2,2 being the worst match. We then entered into a sharing scheme which is a 2 way match with another couple. Ie my brother could have been a perfect match for someone else but not me and likewise with the other couple and you basically swap donors. My brother also had to get checks to ensure both his kidneys worked as a 50/50 split. Also is a scan on his kidney plumbing to see it suits. Then he gets evaluated to the reasons why and would he cope psychologically with the transplant if for instance it didn’t work. Last thing is an appointment for both of us to see an independent doctor who ethically questions us. Ie do you know each other, any money changing hands etc. We had to take family photos to prove we were brothers as well as north certificates. The bloods are the quick part. His other appointments take the time.
The checks were completed a few months previous. It was just a waiting game until I was ready for it.
Congratulations!! So pleased your brother was willing to donate to you. Welcome to you new life!
How wonderful for you!!
Marj
Congrats! I'm very happy for you and I hope your new kidney will last forever.