In 2021, Martin Mans (37) from Stellenbosch made the life-changing decision to donate a kidney to his sister, Mariëtte Botha. She was able to obtain her PhD due to the generous lifesaving gift.

1. Which organ did you donate, and in what year?
I donated a kidney in 2021.

2. How long was your recipient on the waiting list for an organ?
It was a pre-emptive transplant, we started with the work-up before my sister had to do dialysis.

3. What made you decide to donate?
Choosing to donate my kidney to my sister was one of the most personal and profound decisions I’ve ever made. It was an act of love, family, and faith in a better future.
My sister and I share a lifelong bond. We’ve faced challenges together and supported each other through every season of life. When I learned that she needed a kidney transplant, I knew immediately that if I could help, I would. The thought of her facing the uncertainty of dialysis or waiting years for a donor was not something I could accept passively.
After extensive medical evaluations and discussions with specialists, I was fortunate to learn that I was a match. From that point on, the decision felt less like a sacrifice and more like a gift I was privileged to give. Seeing her regain strength, health, and hope has made every step worthwhile.
More than anything, I did it because of love because family means stepping in when someone needs you most. I would do it again without hesitation, because I believe we are here to care for each other in whatever way we can.

4. Describe the emotions experienced when you were told that you are a suitable donor?
First, there was relief. After weeks of uncertainty, medical tests, and waiting, finally knowing I could help gave me a deep sense of reassurance. It felt like a light had broken through a long period of worry.
Then came gratitude. I was grateful that my body was healthy enough to be part of the solution. Grateful that I could do something tangible to give my sister a real chance at a full life again.
Of course, there was fear too. Not so much fear of the surgery itself, I trusted the medical professionals, but fear of the unknown. I wondered how the recovery would go, how my body would adjust to functioning with one kidney, and most importantly, whether everything would work as hoped for my sister.
And then, on a very personal level, I’ve always had a deep fear of blood and needles. Even routine blood tests made me anxious, so the thought of going through multiple rounds of tests and ultimately surgery felt daunting. It pushed me far outside of my comfort zone. But in a way, that fear made the decision even more meaningful. I wasn’t doing this because it was easy, I was doing it because it mattered.

5. What is life like now, after donating an organ?
The recovery process took time and care, but I listened to my body and followed the guidance of my doctors. Today, I’m able to do everything I did before, work, exercise, travel, enjoy life with no real limitations.
Emotionally, there’s a quiet strength I carry with me.

6. What advice would you give people considering being a living donor?
Talk openly with your doctors, ask every question, no matter how small. Make sure you have a full picture of what’s involved in the evaluation, surgery, and recovery. Knowledge brings peace of mind.
Emotionally, it helps to remember why you’re considering it. Whether it’s for a family member, a close friend, or even someone you’ve never met, the impact of what you’re offering is life changing. That clarity of purpose will carry you through the difficult parts.
Finally, lean on support of family, friends, even donor support groups.

7. If you could describe donation in one word, what would it be?
Purposeful.