I donated my left kidney to my father on Nov. 21, 2013 when I was 29 years old. I had found out he was in End-Stage Kidney Failure six months before and I didn’t even have to think about donating, I knew I would be willing to do it immediately.
I didn’t think I would be able to donate when my two sisters (who started the tests before I did) were both an incompatible blood type, but I was thrilled to be a match. Right now, a year-and-a-half after surgery, my father is doing amazingly well and my own kidney function is still in the normal range for a woman my age. I call it my Super Kidney.
Since donation I have finished my PhD, traveled to three countries (Portugal, Turkey, and Italy twice), moved halfway across the US, started a new job, got a new dog, and would do it all again in a heartbeat!
– Brenna Graham
You are definitely rocking your Super Kidney, Brenna! What an inspiring story! Give your dog a treat for us, and rock on!
He must be a great dad if all three daughters were willing to donate a kidney to him! Brenna, it’s great to hear how your life hasn’t even slowed down after donation — thanks for sharing your story.