Name: Kathy
Location: North Carolina
Donation date: December 2024
Age at donation: 61
Categories of exercise before donation: Hiking, cycling, running
What was your activity level like before donation?
I have made it a goal in life to maintain good physical condition. I have completed 13 marathons, multiple half marathons, and Tough Mudders, and I cycle regularly. I joined a rowing club two years ago and fell in love with that sport.
How would you describe your recovery post-donation?
I had some bladder retention issues after surgery that cleared up after three days in the hospital. The docs said it was likely due to my age. I’ve had no problems since, and it’s been nearly 10 months since my surgery. The first ten days post-surgery felt like I spent a few rounds in the ring with Mike Tyson. It hurt to laugh, and my appetite was slight. I walked at least a mile each day. After the tenth day, I felt great and began to increase my activity level. I paid attention to the doctor’s advice and waited three months to return to rowing.
Describe your journey back to fitness after recovering.
It’s been an incredibly easy journey. I feel exactly the same as I did before the surgery, and my fitness hasn’t waned. I’ve been running 5Ks consistently since four months post-surgery and rowing three times a week.
Were there unexpected hurdles along the way?
Nothing, other than the bladder retention issues that went away after the third day post-surgery.
Do you feel different now than when you did pre-surgery?
Physically, I feel exactly the same as I did pre-surgery. Emotionally, I feel happy to have done something kind, making a sacrifice for another person.
Do you take precautions now that you didn’t before?
I’ve always tried to eat healthy. With only one kidney, I try to be even more intentional about what I put into my body. I don’t smoke. I may have a beer or a glass of wine per week.
What advice would you give someone considering donating?
Just do it! You will never again wonder if your life made a difference.
What were your fears before donating?
I didn’t have any fears. I had been wanting to donate an organ for several years. I tried to donate a piece of liver, but I was told I was too old. I’m grateful that the opportunity presented itself to donate a kidney and extend and improve the quality of another person’s life.
Tell us anything else you’d like included in your submission!
I compare the entire donation experience to having my wisdom teeth removed. I don’t miss my wisdom teeth, and I don’t miss my kidney!
