By Nicole Knox

Living donation is the best option for end stage renal (kidney) disease patients. The kidneys transplanted from living and healthy donors typically function more than 15 years for the recipient. They are also better-quality kidneys, as living donors receive a comprehensive evaluation to ensure they are good candidates for donation.

In April 2019, I decided to pursue becoming a living kidney donor. I didn’t undergo a momentous epiphany in making this decision, but it had been weighing on my mind for several months. Managing the ECMC Transplant Department, I see the remarkable change in patients after receiving their kidney. Patients once fatigued and unwell, can return to enjoying life. It just felt like the right thing to do. So, I began
the evaluation process required of all donors that summer — bloodwork, urine tests, and a psychological evaluation, with strong support from those around me.

On October 14, 2019, I underwent minimally invasive surgery to donate my kidney altruistically. The laparoscopic surgery went well, and I recovered without complications. I spent a few nights in the hospital and returned home with my family. My husband was extremely supportive, making sure I followed all instructions given to me at discharge. I was back to my normal activities in about a week and back to work a few weeks after that. I felt no different with one less kidney, and am able to continue to live my life normally.

In March 2020, I was able to meet the recipient of my kidney. Donna is a wonderful woman who embraced me warmly with tears as she thanked me for giving her another chance at life. She made me a new part of her family and we talked for about our lives and how much this process meant to us. I felt like my circle of donation was complete after meeting her. My left kidney is well cared for by this woman in its new “home.” Donna and I will be forever connected.

Donating my kidney changed my life in many ways, some obvious and some not. It never required a change in my daily habits. I still go to restaurants with family, exercise, work, and enjoy the occasional cocktail. My body functions as it should, and I have no lasting effects. However, my outlook on life has changed for the better. I didn’t donate my kidney for the “thank you” from others, but because it felt like the right thing to do. I had two of something when I only needed one, so it made sense to share.

I have seen how organ donation changes lives. Recipients are freed from having to undergo dialysis and are able to enjoy life again. Bringing kindness to someone is one of the most important and valuable things you can give. I would do it over and over again given the chance.

For information about ECMC, kidney care, and organ donation, visit www.ecmc.edu. Call 716-898-5001 or 716-898-3000.

Nicole Knox RN, MSN, is Director of Transplant at the Regional Center of Excellence for Transplantation and Kidney Care at ECMC.