Anéll Prins, 38, from Brackenfell in the Western Cape, shares her inspiring story of donating a kidney to her friend Nikki. Anéll had known Nikki’s husband since their days singing in a youth choir until 2003. After losing touch for a few years, fate brought them back together when they reconnected at church. Through this reunion, Anéll and Nikki became close friends, leading to Anéll’s extraordinary decision to donate a kidney and give Nikki the gift of life.

1. Which organ did you donate, and in what year?
I donated a kidney to my friend on 29 November 2022.

2. How long was your recipient on the waiting list for an organ?
Nikki had her one polycystic kidney removed 2 months before our transplant. She was on dialysis for those two months.

3. What made you decide to donate?
I really love helping people, so when I heard that Nikki needed a kidney, it was obvious to me that I wanted to do it.

4. Describe the emotions experienced when you were told that you are a suitable donor?
Wow, I still remember that day. It felt like I had just won the Lotto! I was so excited and could not wait for the procedure day.

5. What is life like now, after donating an organ?
Nothing has really changed for me, I sometimes forget that I now only have one kidney. But it is amazing knowing that my friend is doing so much better with her new kidney.

6. What advice would you give people considering being a living donor?
Just do it, it is really worth it.

7. Why do you think there is a shortage of donors in South Africa?
Misconceptions that you can not live with only one kidney. Some cultures also believe that they must have all their organs.

8. If you could describe donation in one word, what would it be?
3 words… The greatest honour.

9. Are there any reason NOT to be an organ donor?
If you have a medical condition that is a contra-indication.

10. If you could be any organ, what organ would you be and why? 
The heart. That is where you give and receive love from.