Feeling lost

[susieinindiana]

Hi. I donated my kidney to my brother in 1997. He had 26 years of doing what he loved, however, his death has been painful for me.

I know that’s what they told us about our recipient’s death, yet I had been so positive and felt the donation was such a freeing experience, I thought I was prepared.

Any advice?

[SophieSkye]

I’m so so sorry for your loss. We are never prepared for losing a loved one. Can I please ask the cause of your brother’s passing? Was this renal related?

[susieinindiana in reply to SophieSkye]

He had congestive heart failure and complications from Type 1 diabetes. They found that his kidney had completely failed on Thursday and his body then just gave in by that Sunday Morning.

[Tarheel8082 in reply to susieinindiana]

I can only imagine how you feel. I'm in the evaluation process to donate to my brother, also a Type 1 diabetic. Losing him is one of my greatest fears. I wish I had advice, will hold you in my thoughts and prayers.

[SophieSkye]

My condolences Susie. So tragic. Thinking of you and all the family.

[cathyserene]

Susie, I'm sorry for your loss. It's very strange and disconcerting to lose a brother. I was a donor to a dear friend who died after just 3 years. My personal loss never eases but her family and friends remain grateful for the chance of life that I gave her. I remain an advocate for donors. You and your brother had 26 years of memories and joy. Please cherish that; Through the sorrows I hope many happy memories will surface.

[GivingOne]

So sorry for your loss, sending you virtual hugs 🫂 and positive energy your way through. I've lost a sibling to Cancer, even though that's not the same thing you're going through, I tend to just go day by day, and on the holidays or her birthday, I think of good memories only, keep busy, and I try to remember she wouldn't want me to be depressed or jeopardize my own health since she was a Nurse.