Meet Noncedo Ndlwana (38) from Cofimvaba, Eastern Cape. A Masters student in Journalism & Media Studies at Wits, and a real-life hero who donated a kidney to her cousin. Proof that courage, love, and storytelling can change lives.

1. Which organ did you donate, and in what year?
I donated a kidney to my cousin in 2023.

2. How long was your recipient on the waiting list for an organ?
5 Years.

3. What made you decide to donate?
I could not bear the sight of seeing a loved suffer a life-long illness while I could help. My conscience would not allow me.

4. Describe the emotions experienced when you were told that you are a suitable donor?
To know that I could save a life made me the happiest woman alive. My heart was filled with joy. I have always wanted to involve myself in humanitarian work, using the energy and the little resources that I have. That’s what I live for. Otherwise, what is life without helping others?

5. What is life like now, after donating an organ?
I am living a normal and a more confident life. The truth is that I sometimes forget that I am operating with one kidney. I don’t regret taking such a decision, it’s fulfilling.

6. What advice would you give people considering being a living donor?
Donate that organ; it will be worth it.

7. Why do you think there is a shortage of donors in South Africa?
I guess it is lack of knowledge and societal misconceptions. Some people worry more about the ‘what if’s’ and decide not to donate instead of seeking professional advice on the effects of organ donation.

8. Has the idea of an altruistic donor become an outdated expectation in a modern society?
By the look of things, organ donation is something that is going to take time in order to be entirely understood. Donating to a stranger would even be worse. I guess more education and advocacy would around this topic is needed, and has to be made constant. Over time, we will get there.

9. What is the biggest stigma/myth you have heard about organ donation?
Organ donation reduces donor’s life expectancy.

10. If you could describe donation in one word, what would it be?
Humanity

11. Are there any reason NOT to be an organ donor?
If someone is generally healthy and emotionally fit, I don’t see why they cannot donate an organ.

12. If you could be any organ, what organ would you be and why?
Brain. It is in control of core functions such as gathering thoughts, emotions, memory and decision making.