Join us on Transplant Tuesdays as we share the inspiring journey of Neo Malope, a courageous 27-year-old from Ruimsig, Johannesburg, who faced end-stage liver and is currently on dialysis awaiting a kidney transplant.

1. Which organ did you receive, and in what year?
I received a full liver from a deceased donor in 2019.

2. How long were you on the waiting list for your organ?
I was on the waiting list for 8 months.

3. What was life like before the transplant How did you spend your days?
Life was very challenging for me as I had to deal with liver and kidney failure simultaneously! All this happened while I was studying at NWU and I remember I had to deregister my studies at some point as my health deteriorated badly. It was emotionally draining.

4. What is life like with End Stage Kidney Failure?
Having kidney failure and being on dialysis has turned my life around completely. The treatment is time-consuming and I had to rethink how I will make it manageable. I am currently a Law student, which demands a lot of effort from me. This renal condition has also affected my social life, I’m not as outgoing as I used to be. I now enjoy intimate quality time with my loved ones. I had to make huge adjustments to my diet, which sometimes took a toll on my emotions as I had to let go of some of my favourite things.

5. Describe the emotions experienced when you were told your donor is a match?
Frightening and shocking! I was in disbelief. I never thought I’d get a donor that soon..

6. What is life like now, after the transplant?
Life has gotten much better and my days are brighter! My health has improved and that has made me a much happier person in general. It has given me hope for my upcoming kidney transplant.

7. What advice would you give patients on the waiting list?
Be resilient, be courageous and pray! Don’t give up, your precious gift is on the way.

8. Why do you think there is a shortage of donors in South Africa?
Awareness, lack of knowledge & culture! Our people are less informed, less educated about organ donation and have beliefs that don’t allow them to share organs.

9. If you could describe transplant in one word, what would it be?
Sentimental.