I donated my kidney to my nephew on Nov. 7, 2013. There have been some bumps in the road but as we celebrated the 3-month anniversary of the transplant, I thought about how overjoyed with happiness I was when I found out I was a great match. The only way I can describe it is, it’s like when you are told you are pregnant for the first time. Incredible joy, crying with happiness, so very thankful to be given the opportunity to help.
Then worry – what will it be like to donate? Then reading and talking to people who have donated for their experiences. I have to admit I probably only communicated with about 10 people. I wanted this to be my experience without any outside influences. People ask me what it is/was like and I always reply that it wasn’t a big deal. Their response is always surprise, and honestly I would do it again in a heartbeat! Only wish I could grow more kidneys to donate. Thanking God for blessing me with this incredible gift to give.
Thank you, Cindi, for sharing your story on National Donor Day! Rock on!