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Common Questions from Potential Kidney Donors, and How to Answer Them

Jon Sullenberger, Lead Microsite Donor Mentor

When someone is considering becoming a living kidney donor, they’ll probably have questions. If you are a kidney patient seeking a living kidney donor, it’s important to be prepared to answer these questions. Below are some common questions potential donors might have, how to answer them, and links to additional information on each topic.

What does kidney donation involve?

The process of kidney donation, from initial evaluation to surgery, is well-organized and streamlined. It involves several steps, including medical tests, psychological assessments, and consultations, designed to ensure the safety and suitability of the donor. The process is managed by experienced medical professionals who guide donors through every stage.

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Can I be too young or too old to donate?

Age can be a concern due to several factors, but if an individual is healthy, they can donate a kidney at almost any age. Transplant centers may have their own specific rules and guidelines related to donor age, but there is no maximum age limit to register to become a donor through the National Kidney Registry.

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What if I donate but someone else needs a kidney at a later date? Should I save my kidney just in case?

What if, after you donate a kidney, a friend or family member needs a kidney transplant but you can no longer donate a kidney to them because you have already donated? The Family Voucher Program solves this issue, letting you donate a kidney while also protecting your family members in the unlikely event one of them ever needs a kidney transplant.

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What if I’m not a match for the person I want to donate to?

If you are not a medical match for the person you want to donate a kidney to, you can donate through the Voucher Program to help them get a kidney. Even better, your donation will not only help your intended recipient get a kidney, it will help someone else facing kidney failure get a kidney as well, so you’ll be changing the lives of two people instead of just one.

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Is kidney donation a high-risk surgery?

Living kidney donation is a major surgery, but advancements in medical technology have significantly reduced the associated risks, making it one of the safest types of surgery. Most donors experience a smooth recovery and can return to their normal activities within a few weeks. Hospitals have strict protocols and thorough screening processes to ensure donors are in good health before proceeding with the surgery.

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How long will it take to recover from kidney donation?

The recovery time after living kidney donation surgery varies depending on several factors, including the type of surgery (laparoscopic vs traditional kidney removal) and the donor’s individual rate of recovery. Most kidney donors are hospitalized for just a few days post-surgery. Once discharged, the recovery process typically involves rest and limited physical activity for a few weeks, after which most people can resume their normal routines.

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I am the sole provider for my family. What do I do about lost wages?

To ensure living donors do not have to suffer lost income as a result of their generous decision to donate a kidney, the National Kidney Registry’s Donor Shield program offers living donor financial assistance, including lost wage reimbursement up to a maximum of $2,000 per week for up to six weeks. Using Donor Shield for lost wage reimbursement means you do not have to use short-term disability or any of your vacation or sick time for your kidney donation—you can keep that time to use for your future personal needs.

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Who will pay for my hospital stay, travel, medications, doctor appointments, etc.?

Kidney donation should not cost the donor anything. The medical expenses associated with kidney donation are generally covered by the recipient’s insurance. Nonmedical costs incurred by the donor, such as lost wages, travel, and childcare, are covered by Donor Shield.

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Does donating a kidney affect the donor’s long-term health?

Studies have shown that kidney donation does not significantly affect a donor’s long-term health. Donors typically lead healthy lives and have life expectancies comparable to non-donors. The remaining kidney can usually perform all the necessary functions to keep donors healthy.

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Can I donate a kidney if I have a chronic health condition?

Many chronic health conditions do not automatically disqualify someone from being a donor. Each donor is assessed on a case-by-case basis, undergoing a thorough medical evaluation to determine whether donating a kidney is safe for them. Conditions like diabetes or high blood pressure may be managed effectively with proper treatment and lifestyle changes.

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FindAKidney.org is dedicated to giving people facing kidney failure the tools, information and support they need to find a living kidney donor. If you are in need of a kidney transplant or want to help someone in kidney failure by becoming a living donor, please click the appropriate button below.

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