Follow me on:
Learn more about the kidneys
How does kidney donation work?
Kidney donation can be from a living donor or a deceased donor, but living donation offers the best outcomes and the fastest path to recovery.
​
If you’re interested in becoming a living donor, the process typically involves:
​
-
Evaluation: Medical tests and consultations to ensure you are healthy enough to donate.
-
Surgery: A minimally invasive procedure called laparoscopic surgery is most commonly used, involving small incisions and a quicker recovery.
-
Recovery: Most donors are back to their normal activities within 4-6 weeks, depending on their job and overall health.​
​​
Every step of the process is carefully monitored by medical professionals to keep you safe and healthy.
​
Importantly: The costs of donor testing, evaluation, and surgery are paid by the recipient's (my) health insurance.
​
More details can be found on the "Resources" and "FAQ" sections.
Learn More About the Kidneys & Dialysis
The kidneys are vital organs that filter your blood, remove waste, balance fluids, and regulate blood pressure. When kidneys stop working properly, it’s called kidney failure, and waste products build up in the body, which can be life-threatening.
What is Dialysis?
​
Dialysis is a treatment that mimics some of the functions of healthy kidneys. There are two main types:
​
-
Hemodialysis: Blood is filtered through a machine outside the body, usually done at a clinic multiple times per week.
-
Peritoneal Dialysis: A fluid is introduced into the abdomen through a catheter, which absorbs waste products and is then drained. This process is done daily, usually at home, and this is the method I use.
While dialysis is life-saving, it’s not a permanent solution. A kidney transplant offers a better quality of life, freedom from daily dialysis, and a healthier, more energetic future.
