Ilasa Needs a Living Kidney Donor
“I would like my future living kidney donor to know that if I had the opportunity to receive a kidney transplant, I would be the happiest person in the world and so grateful to God for answering my prayers.”
Ilasa’s Story
In 2021, Ilasa faced a severe health crisis that led to hospitalization in the ICU at the University of Utah Hospital. Upon admission, it was discovered that Ilasa’s sodium levels were critically low and his kidneys were failing, which meant he would need to start dialysis as soon as possible. Ilasa understood that a kidney transplant was the optimal solution. Knowing that a successful transplant could significantly extend and improve quality of life, Ilasa is now determined to find a living kidney donor.
We Need to Find a Living Donor
Ilasa battles kidney disease, feeling its impacts daily. He longs to engage in activities he once cherished, such as participating in church events and contributing to his community. Receiving a kidney from a living donor would enable Ilasa to enjoy more quality time with his loved ones, alleviating the constant concerns about his health. He knows that with support from his family, friends, and community, he will be able to find a hero to help save his life.
Donor Eligibility Requirements
Ilasa is extremely lucky to have secured highly qualified medical help and support from the team at the University of Utah Health (UUH). He wants any interested persons to know that they will be in exceptional hands should they decide to step forward. UUH has shared the following as a pre-qualification list for donation:
Must be between the age of 18-69 years old.
Must be healthy and free of major health problems such as high blood pressure, diabetes, heart disease, obesity (BMI of 37 or less).
Must be mentally and emotionally healthy.
You Can Help Save Ilasa's Life!
Interested In Donating?
Complete the short contact form and a GiftWorks' Living Donor Navigator will respond within 1 day to guide you through the next steps in the process.
Have Questions About Donating?
Having questions is normal! Complete the short contact form to set up a time to speak with a GiftWorks' Living Donor Navigator; a guide who knows what it's like to donate a kidney because they've donated in the past.
Want To Help In Other Ways?
You can help by sharing Ilasa's page today! Also, be sure to share Ilasa's posts on social media each week to spread awareness of his story. Sharing posts is one of the best ways to help Ilasa find his lifesaving donor.
Process for Stepping Forward for Ilasa
Fill out the short contact form and a GiftWorks’ Living Donor Navigator will reach out to you within 1 business day to set up a time to connect.
During your time with a GiftWorks’ Living Donor Navigator, you will get to ask questions and receive answers from a living kidney donor. They will tell you more about the process, address non-medical concerns, and connect you to valuable resources.
Breeze is a health questionnaire that will be reviewed by the hospital’s medical team to determine your eligibility for living donation as well as the next steps.
Questions & Answers
WAS ILASA'S FAMILY TESTED?
Ilasa's sisters want to get tested, but they live out of the country and unfortunately haven't been able to do so.
DO I NEED INSURANCE TO DONATE?
While the recipient's insurance will provide coverage for the donor, the donor needs to have their own health insurance in the rare event an unknown health issues comes up for the donor.
WHAT ABOUT MY EXPENSES?
While the recipient's insurance covers all costs related to the donation (for Ilasa and his donor), there are expenses like travel, meals, and lost wages that can be incurred. However, we want you to know there are resources available to ensure you do not have to pay for anything out of pocket. The GiftWorks' team can provide more information about those resources if you choose to step forward as a living donor.
HOW LONG IS THE RECOVERY PROCESS?
Living kidney donors are often able to return to work within 2 weeks, and fully heal within 6-8 weeks. After surgery, the donor’s remaining kidney will also grow in size and function, allowing them to live normal life with just one kidney.
WHAT ARE THE REQUIREMENTS TO DONATE?
The following are pre-qualification requirements for living donation: must be between the age of 18-69 years old, must be healthy and free of major health problems such as high blood pressure, diabetes, heart disease, and obesity (BMI of 37 or less), and must be mentally and emotionally healthy.
WHAT HAPPENS IF ILASA DOES NOT FIND A DONOR?
If Ilasa doesn't find a donor, he would likely have to endure the lengthy wait on the kidney transplant list, which could significantly prolong his suffering and increase the risk of complications associated with his condition.
