One of the most common myths I’ve heard in my search for a living kidney donor is that you can’t donate a kidney after the age of 50. This simply isn’t true.
In fact, healthy individuals over the age of 50 can still donate a kidney, provided they meet the medical criteria. According to the American Transplant Foundation, “Kidney donation is possible for most people, even if they are over 50 years old, as long as they are healthy and have no significant health issues” (American Transplant Foundation, 2021). Age alone does not disqualify someone from being a donor.
Each year, around 6,000 people make the brave decision to donate a kidney. These generous individuals are helping to save lives like mine. Without a living donor, I could wait 5 or more years for a deceased donor transplant—time that I don’t have.
If you’re over 50 and thinking about donating, know that your age doesn’t automatically disqualify you. Your decision could give someone like me a second chance at life. To learn more about my story and why I am searching tirelessly to find a living kidney donor, please visit: https://giftworksuuh.com/steveb/
