Kidney for Sharon
The idea of donating a kidney is frightening and it's natural to have some questions. I've tried to provide some additional information below that you might be wondering about. Please don't hesitate to reach out if you would like any additional information.
Q: Does it matter if I'm Type O+ or O-? A: No, the positive or negative doesn't matter. A potential donor just needs to be Type O.
Q: Is it expensive? What if I don't have health insurance? A: Donors do not incur any costs for pre-donation medical tests, the donation itself, follow-up care.
Q: Are you on the organ donation waitlist? A: Yes, but for patients with an O blood type, the wait is up to 8 years. A donation from a living donor will help me heal sooner and resume a normal life faster.
Q: What is the donation procedure like? A: Donating is relatively easy. It is a laparoscopic procedure and involves a short overnight stay in the hospital.
Q: What is the recovery like for a donor? A: Donors typically stay overnight at the hospital and can return home the next day. Heavy lifting is not recommended for six weeks after donating.
Q: Why can't you just do dialysis? A: Dialysis isn't a simple fix. Your kidneys filter your blood 24/7. Dialysis can replicate this, but it takes hours three times per week and significantly disrupts your ability to live a normal life.
Q: How does donating impact my health? A: Donors generally have no impacts to their health and lead normal lives. Your body functions as well with one kidney as it does with two.
Q: I have Type O blood and want to help. How can I see if I'm a match to donate? A: Contact Georgetown University Hospital through the "How to Help" page on this site.
