Learn about the Voucher Program

[PeterChao]

I think the general public doesn’t realize that transplanted kidneys have a limited life span, generally about 10-12 years. This means many transplant recipients need another transplant in the future.

Something to consider is the voucher program. This would allow a living donor to donate their kidney prior to the patient needing it. That patient would receive a voucher for when they need the kidney in the future.

You can learn more about it here

kidneyregistry.org/info/vou...

I received my kidney on 1/24/2018, I’m doing well and very grateful my mom(72) at the time was able to donate her kidney to me. Good luck to anyone that is waiting. Hope this information helps!

[WYOAnne NKF Ambassador]

Peter is right, the average for a deceased kidney donor is 10-12 years. My transplant center said 12-15 years.

I had a deceased donor transplant in 1999. So, I am 20 years post transplant. I just had my labs done last week and my creatinine is holding steady at 0.9. I have always taken all of my transplant meds and listened to my doctor's. If prescribed another medication, including antibiotics, I always check with my nephrologist before I take it. Even though other doctors' are reminded about my transplant, some prescribe a med I should NOT be taking. After a transplant I think there is a lot of due diligence the recipient needs to do too.

Is this the reason my kidney is still functioning like a champ? Or is because I received my kidney from a 16 year old deceased donor and was a 4/6 match? Either way, I am so grateful to God & my donor family everyday for this wonderful LIFE!

[PeterChao in reply to WYOAnne]

Glad to hear everything is going well!

[nharper in reply to WYOAnne]

Hi i too are thankful God first and my sister second I am post transplant 32 years. I take my meds,and try to live an holistic

Life..life is good