Living Kidney Donor

Introducing Cathleen Le Roux, a 57-year-old from Bloemfontein who altruistically gave her kidney to the daughter of a school friend.

1. Which organ did you donate, and in what year?
A kidney in 2023.

2. How long was your recipient on the waiting list for an organ?
Two years. 

3. What made you decide to donate?
I had an inner drive to donate and it was something on my bucket list. I wanted to give the family hope and Helene (recipient) to be as healthy as possible. It was a privilege to donate.

4. Describe the emotions experienced when you were told that you are a suitable donor?
“I don’t have words to convey the true magnitude and divinity thereof. I was so determined and to see her and hear how well she is doing now brings me eternal joy.”

5. What is life like now, after donating an organ?
Normal, I feel bigger from within.

6. What advice would you give people considering being a living donor?
Pray about it and then Do It.

7. Why do you think there is a shortage of donors in South Africa?
Awareness and Courage. “I think LAB personnel, all personnel conducting tests, X-rays, and scans should be informed about organ donation.”

8. What is the biggest stigma/myth you have heard about organ donation?
You receive money, cannot live with just one kidney, and the donor will have to be on medication and a strict diet for the rest of their lives.

9. If you could describe donation in one word, what would it be?
Courageous.

10. Are there any reasons NOT to be a living donor?
Your own health.

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