Update on the response to my search for a living donor.

[ILMA54]

I finally got up the courage to send out a request for a living donation. I drafted by letter based on samples on the NKF site and several other sites. On Sunday, I sent my letter via Microsoft Messenger to ~ 150 people. Rather than sending it to all of them in a single note, I sent each letter individually to preserve some level of anonymity.

I have been overwhelmed by the response. I got three immediate "yes" responses and four "Let me think about it." responses.

Then, just this morning, I received an e-mail from somebody who heard about my situation from a friend of his I had contacted. He is a match and has gone through much of the testing at the same hospital I am working with.

Humbled beyond words at the willingness of people to step forward. On the one hand, I kick myself for not sending out a request letter when I first was added to the transplant list 15 months ago. I also recognize that I had to reach a point of desperation to get up the courage to ask for assistance.

[DexterLab]

Congratulations! It is so hard to ask for such a thing, and yet we are blessed that such people exist. You never know who it will be. I asked at church, and my pastor ended up as my donor. Good luck with the transplant!

[ILMA54 in reply to DexterLab]

Thanks! How long ago was your transplant?

[DexterLab in reply to ILMA54]

Almost a year. I have PKD, and I was better before I left the hospital. My donor is doing great and so am I. I am doing well with the meds but drinking 3 liters a day is an ongoing challenge. And we got it all done before I needed dialysis. I am a happy camper.

[WYOAnne NKF Ambassador]

Congratulations on finding a donor! And YES it is the ultimate GIFT you can receive from another. Best of luck with all. Keep us posted as you move forward!

I am living well, 20 years post transplant!

[Qdog]

Wow, that is so encouraging. My son just got added to the active list. We were told his best chance of a good outcome was from a live donor. So happy for you! Good luck! Keep us posted how everything goes!

[hope1419]

I understan clearly your struggle in your decision to ask. After all, it is the Big ask. It took me a long time to do so. I first had to "mourn" the lost of my kidney health and independence, accept the loss and the need for help. I finally reached out to the local newspaper, and told my story, I gave my information for people to call the donation center, as you, I received three people who did the initial testing, then the center chose one to complete the testing, and we are planning the transplant to be done soon. I am humbled to no end, and scared at what is coming, but, I know that these things do not happen too often, so I am blessed, as you are.

[LisaSnow]

Congratulations! Have you had your transplant yet? Are you in the USA?

[ILMA54 in reply to LisaSnow]

No. All of this has taken place in the last two weeks.