I am a long time friend of Bev’s, having met up in our undergrad years on Toronto and continuing our friendship over the decades and across continents.
I have just been accepted as a match for a childhood friend of mine who needs a kidney.
My friend was diagnosed with kidney disease. She has now been on dialysis for 4 years.
Potential donors were sought. Some people, even complete strangers, have offered, but they were rejected for one reason or another. The assessment procedure is very protective of donors, being careful to not put them at any risk themselves.
When I heard about her needing a kidney, I read the links that were sent to me, and learned more about kidneys. I called the Kidney Foundation, and then the Living Donor Co-ordinator. I learned a great deal and decided to be assessed.
I wanted to give my friend more time…..and a better quality of life. Currently, her fatigue is huge and she is not able to go away anywhere for more than one night at a time. There were other reasons as well. She is a grandmother, as am I, and wants to have more time and energy to enjoy this.
I have been accepted!!!
On August 18 the surgery will happen. All our families will be there. I feel really good about this and I feel this is a great privilege.
I would ask to your prayers, good wishes and positive thoughts for Monday August 18 for Pam (donor) and Ann (recipient) and our families.
