There’s a common myth that your body needs two kidneys to function. In reality, you only need one healthy kidney to live a long, full, and active life. According to the National Kidney Foundation, most living kidney donors go on to live normal lives with just one kidney, without major health issues (NKF.org). Many even say they would donate again if they could.
Every year, about 6,000 people step up and become living kidney donors in the United States—saving the lives of people like me. I was diagnosed with end-stage renal disease at just 16 years old. Since then, I’ve spent years tied to dialysis, missing out on so many milestones most people take for granted. I dream of the simple things: swimming again, building my career, traveling, even dressing up without worrying about a chest catheter.
A living donor kidney often lasts longer than one from a deceased donor, offering recipients like me a stronger, longer-lasting chance at freedom and a better life. Living donors are true heroes—and with modern medicine, they can continue thriving with one kidney while giving someone else the gift of possibility.
If you have questions or wonder what becoming a living donor is really like, you can complete a short contact form on the GiftWorks website to connect with a Living Donor Navigator—someone who has donated before and can share their experience firsthand. https://giftworksuuh.com/rindeel/
Living kidney donation is safe. It’s life-changing. And for people like me, it’s the greatest gift imaginable. Thank you for caring enough to learn more—you could change, and even save a life, like mine: https://giftworksuuh.com/rindeel/
