Koketso Ramaboea, 33 years old, from Honeydew, Johannesburg spent 3 years on the waiting list for a liver. Read her story in our #TransplantTuesdays feature.

1. Which organ did you receive, and in what year?
I received a liver transplant in 2018.

2. How long were you on the waiting list for your organ?
I waited for 3 years on the list.

3. What was life like before the transplant? How did you spend your days?
Before my transplant I was suffering from fatigue; continued oesophageal varices (enlarged veins in oesophagus) which when they raptured caused blood loss and necessitated hospitalisation. My weight also fluctuated due to my illness.

4. Describe the emotions experienced when you received “The Call” for your transplant?
Because I had received about three calls before, I was a bit hesitant to celebrate or tell my family about the call.

5. What is life like now, after the transplant?
Life is amazing, I’ve been able to go back to work and school, have a healthy and active lifestyle. I have hope.

6 What advice would you give patients on the waiting list?
Have a strong emotional support system, be active and healthy. Always be prepared..and never lose hope.

7. Why do you think there is a shortage of donors in South Africa?
It’s because of myths and believes that taint the gift that is donation. And not enough awareness.

8. If you could describe transplant in one word, what would it be?
Love