Life Stories

Diane’s Gift From Her Mum

30 December 2018

I went into hospital around 1971, aged 6. Little did I know about my kidney failure.

In 1977 I attended Guy’s Hospital when it became apparent that my kidneys were failing.  A children’s transplant was discussed.

Transplants were not commonplace in those days.  Prior to 1975 most transplants were adults so I was lucky to be given the chance to have the operation.  I was scared to go through with it, but I had no energy (or choice) left.  Dialysis wasn’t agreeing with me, so transplant was my only option.  My parents were both tested to see if they were a suitable match.  My mum had the best match!

I was on dialysis for around three weeks in 1978, during which I was mainly unconscious due to such poor health.  By then everything was ready for me to receive my mum’s kidney.  I was then 13 years old.  My parents allowed the operation to be filmed and it was open to observers as Guy’s is a teaching hospital.

I was looked after extremely well.  When I awoke after the operation I was told that my mum’s kidney had started working the moment it was connected.  I remember having lots of drips and monitors attached to me, but I insisted on being taken to my mum’s ward to check on her.  I had more energy than she did at that time!

Over the following year we recovered together and I was able to attend school, then work.  In 1995 I gave birth to my son and have enjoyed a healthy life with no transplant-related illnesses.  I am now 51 and still work full time.  My mum is also well – she is now 78 years old!

In the early years you go through so many mixed emotions; some are due to the experience and some are due to the medication.  Everyone’s journey is different with so many different factors involved; my journey can only be understood by Mum and I.

I do have a special connection with the other children who were on the ward with me at the same time; we all have different stories to share.

I recently told my mum that I remember everything she did for me.  It’s important that she knows.

We’d love to hear from you

We are very grateful to those who have sent us their stories and experiences relating to organ donation. If you have a story you would like to share on our blog, please email us on info@livelifegivelife.org.uk

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