When I was 21 I was diagnosed with end stage renal failure of unknown cause. My life was turned upside down and I was told the only option for treatment was a kidney transplant. I underwent dialysis for eight hours every night for seven months which at times was difficult to deal with being at university. Life was a struggle, I had no energy and was constantly tired and struggled to keep up with my friends just doing normal things a 21 year old does.
Just six weeks after I finished my degree with my kidney function as low as 3%, I received my new kidney from my wonderful Mum. Every day I grew stronger and gradually life returned to normal. Now, five years down the line I can do everything that my friends can do and taking daily medication is a small price to pay! It’s hard to put into words how grateful I am to my Mum for the sacrifice she made for me. I would urge anyone to sign the organ donation register so that you can give someone a new lease of life like I have had.
