A close friend of mine needs a kidney transplant. He's got igA nephropathy, which is an autoimmune disease focused specifically on the kidneys. Loads of people with this condition manage with steroids or low-dose chemotherapy, but his condition is aggressive. We've tried all the steroids and chemo, they haven't worked, and now the consultant says it's time for dialysis and transplant.
It's a genetic disease so it's recommended that the donor be a non-relative.
He's an old friend and is like a brother to me. Obviously I have contacted his consultant and am now in the process of getting screened to be a donor. I did a lot of soul-searching and researching before doing it, so I'm entirely certain from my end. I have no kids, I'm in excellent health touch wood.
Anyway, the issue is that he is has reservations about accepting a kidney from a live donor (not just me, anyone). He says he couldn't cope with the guilt of causing someone else's health to decline.
I've tried to counter with stories of people running marathons after donating kidneys, blah blah. I will be fine. Just will need to watch the blood pressure (mine is quite low) and maybe not go riding anymore.
He says all those stories of people being fine after donating are just PR! He says, 'Do you actually know anyone who's donated a kidney and is now fine?'
So, maybe you could help? Has anyone here donated a kidney? Are you fine? Or not so fine? If you don't mind sharing I'd be happy to hear about it.