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I made the decision to become a living donor in 2011 and donated at Johns Hopkins in Baltimore.
I didn't plan to meet my recipient but through a "happy accident", I did and I ended up getting the best sister ever. I think my story is important because it's a reminder that you don't have to be EXACTLY Bibi's blood type to make a difference here.
Mary Tompkins was in need of a kidney in 2011 and her friend Susan agreed to be a donor. Susan wasn't 100% compatible with Mary, but it was Susan's willingness to step up for Mary that put Mary and Susan into the paired chain and so that chain grew until one person shows up that agreed to be an altruistic donor that kicked the whole thing off.
I was lucky enough to be that person and the chain was ultimately 8 people in size. When you agree to be an altruistic donor, it isn't just one life you're saving.
It's now been nearly 12 years and Mary is living a rich and full life, with many grandchildren born during that time and I have to say as her donor, knowing what I know now, I would gladly donate to Bibi if I had a third kidney.
I could talk all day about the relationship my new sister and I have, but I'm interested in telling you about my experience as a living donor. First off, I can't say that it has changed life/lifestyle much at all. While I have never been a super athlete, I did manage to climb Mount Kilimanjaro a few years ago with no problem. Mostly what has changed is that I have to avoid taking NSAIDS like aspirin and avoid supplements since they are unregulated by the FDA.
Otherwise, that's pretty much it. my remaining kidney has adapted to the loss of "leftie" who is performing admirably in Mary.
Just click this link to go to Baylor's Living Donor program or scan the following QR Code
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