Joe Mthetwa from Richards Bay (KZN) tells his story of receiving a kidney from his sister after almost giving up hope.

1. Which organ did you receive, and in what year?
Kidney in 2016

2. How long were you on the waiting list for your organ?
Four years.

3. What was life like before the transplant? How did you spend your days?
It was tough as I was undergoing dialysis while working for a construction  company. I had no hope at all.

4. Describe the emotions experienced when you were told your donor is a match?
I had mixed emotions because there were various tests to be done before for both my sister and me. So I had to wait for the big day to come before I could celebrate and think everything is over. When I heard that my sister is a match, it brought tears to my eyes because I started to dream again and regain hope for life.

5. What is life like now, after the transplant?
Life is good and I’m living my normal life again, free from pain and tears, waking up early in the morning to go to  the hospital. Now is the time for me to worship my God and thank Him for a second chance in life that he has given me.

6. What advice would you give patients on the waiting list?
Keep on hoping, God loves everyone and sooner than you think; your day is coming soon (Luke 1:27).

7. Why do you think there is a shortage of donors in South Africa?
Lack of education. Our communities don’t even know what it is to donate. If more people get proper education, that will give them a chance to ask questions and clear their understanding about donating. It can stop so myths and superstitions regarding this issue and then it will be possible that more people will become donors.

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