Awaiting date for operation

[Mercerman]

Hi There,

I am donating a kidney soon to a friend via the kidney share programme, operation should be early October, I am meeting the surgeon and multi dis team on 1st August.... can anyone tell me if they have been through the kidney share programme and if so did they meet the recipient..... this may sound weird but I feel I want to...

Regards

Mercer

[Michaelynn]

I donated directly to an acquaintance. I recommend meeting your recipient because you will share a unique bond. I was able to watch as his health improved dramatically as a result of my kidney donation. We are good friends now. It’s a great feeling. You will be so happy knowing how their life got better becasusr of you.

[Mercerman in reply to Michaelynn]

Thanks... When did you donate?

[Michaelynn in reply to Mercerman]

5 years ago

[AdrianFernandez79]

I donated in October of 2015. I was part of a donor exchange and our chain included 10 people total (5 donors, 5 recipients). I donated indirectly to my co-workers Mom. I did not know her before the donation and 3.5 years later she is like my 2nd Mom and we have a very strong bond.

I never got to meet or contact the actual person who received my kidney but I hope that it worked out for that person.

[Mercerman in reply to AdrianFernandez79]

Thanks....

[PeaceToall in reply to Mercerman]

Do you have any constant pain from donating ? I’m considering donating to a special lady and I think I’ll do it if I pass the examinations.

[BigTerp44 in reply to PeaceToall]

Dear PeaceToall-The only pain I had was from gas trapping in my right shoulder. It goes away the more you walk. I donated in 2012 and would do it again in a heartbeat. First day post op, I was up and around walking in the hospital. In order to be discharged, one must eat, be able to use the bathroom and walk. I was out the next day.

I was back to work in 2 weeks and playing soccer in 30 days. I tried to get in the best shape I could pre-op and 7 years later, no issues. Your special lady will be forever grateful for your gift.

Best wishes.

[EchoMax1012]

Hi! I did a non-directed donation in 2/2016 and chose to never meet my recipient. I knew that this person would be grateful, and I didn't need to have their validation or praise. I of course wonder how that person is doing from time to time, but for me, this has been a good decision.

[PeaceToall in reply to EchoMax1012]

Do you have any pain now from donating?

[Mercerman]

Thanks...... I am now thinking maybe not... Will decide nearer the time I guess....

[Pas246]

Thank you on behalf of those waiting for a live kidney. A selfless act.

Praying for your speedy recovery

[EchoMax1012]

I'm a bit confused. If the recipient is a friend, it seems like you already know each other, and meeting him/her would have already happened. I'm sorry if I'm being dense about this...