Massive news for those of you who have been following my journey of dialysis and chronic kidney disease is that I’m starting the process of searching for a possible kidney donor. My doctors and I have begun exploring the option of a kidney transplant, which is simultaneously both daunting and exciting for me to consider as I look towards my future.
Somehow, I had assumed that there would be a list held somewhere of people who were willing to become kidney donors for people who needed them. It seemed natural since chronic kidney disease and dialysis is not uncommon. But I have yet to find this list, or even to hear a mention of such a list existing in the South African context. Still, it had never occurred to me that I would need to look for a possible kidney donor myself. But, from all I’ve been told so far, that appears to be what I have to do.
To help spread the word about my appeal for a kind person to consider donating one of their kidneys to me I’ve decided to start a Facebook group, where I’ll be detailing my experiences, sharing the realities of undergoing dialysis three times a week, and the impact it’s having on my life.
My hope is that the group will serve as a resource for those who want to support me on my journey, those who wish to learn about chronic kidney disease, dialysis and life after a kidney transplant. I hope by people kindly sharing my posts, photos and videos, that I will reach a broader community and raise awareness of this all too common condition.
And yes, my ultimate hope is that this group will enable my appeal to be read by someone who may be willing to offer me a second chance at a life beyond dialysis.
So, here’s my request to you:
• Join my new group on Facebook,
• Spread my appeal by sharing it with your friends and requesting them to share in turn,
• Engage with the group by reacting and commenting on the posts to keep it a vibrant, dynamic group,
• Ask any questions you have about what is happening in my journey
• Let me know what you’d like to see in the group to guide what I share,
Whether you’re curious, concerned or just want to learn more, this group is for you. You’ll find it here, just waiting for you to connect and support my journey towards the next phase of my life.
Matching Hope: A Kidney for Lois Facebook Group:
https://www.facebook.com/groups/2165816257194324
