Veronica R

Living with polycystic kidney disease has been an incredibly tough journey, not just physically, but emotionally and mentally. Over the years, I’ve had to be resilient in ways I never thought I’d need to be. Kidney disease doesn’t just affect the body; it takes a toll on every part of your life. I’ve missed out on so much—time with my family, the ability to be as active as I once was, and even the energy to focus fully at work. I’m grateful for the job I still have, but the constant fatigue and daily dialysis treatments remind me of how much I’ve had to adapt to.

As someone living with polycystic kidney disease, I know firsthand how hard it is to wait for a life-saving transplant. I’ve been on dialysis, and while I’m grateful for the support of my family and doctors, the ultimate gift for me would be a kidney from a living donor. The gift of life – it’s truly priceless.

The idea of receiving a kidney from a living donor fills me with hope, not just for myself, but for everyone who is struggling with kidney disease. It represents the incredible generosity and compassion of another person who is willing to give the gift of life. This transplant could give me back the energy and health I’ve lost, and allow me to continue being there for my family and loved ones.

Becoming a living kidney donor is a generous act that can save a life, and surprisingly, it is not as difficult as many may think. While the process does require thoughtful consideration, the surgery itself is minimally invasive, with most donors returning home just a few days post-op.

The possibility of finding a living kidney donor is what keeps me going. Unlike the long wait for a deceased donor, a living donor can offer better outcomes, a faster recovery, and a renewed sense of hope for the future. For me, a living donor means the chance to live without the constant fear of my health getting worse. It means fewer restrictions, less anxiety, and more time with my loved ones.

Living with kidney disease is incredibly challenging, but asking for help is even harder. Yet, I know that the kindness and support of others make this ask worth it.

For me, the knowledge that donors face only a brief recovery period makes the idea of donation less daunting. I understand that the decision to donate is monumental, but knowing a donor’s life continues almost uninterrupted after the procedure gives me some reassurance because I know it’s a tremendous ask to make – to ask someone to donate to me.