Ashley needs a living donor as soon as possible so that her body will be healthy enough to both accept the donation and survive the surgery.

WHAT IS LIVING DONATION?

Kidney donations are the most frequent type of living organ donation. To be a living donor, an individual must be physically fit; in good general health; and free from high blood pressure, diabetes, cancer, kidney disease and heart disease.

Individuals considered for living donation are usually between 18-60 years of age. Gender and race are not factors in determining a successful match.

The living donor must first undergo a blood test to determine blood type and tissue type compatibility with the recipient. If the donor and recipient are compatible, the donor undergoes a medical history review and a complete physical examination.

PRIVATE & PERSONAL CHOICE

The decision to become a living donor is a voluntary one, and the donor may change his or her mind at any time during the process. The donor’s decision and reasons are kept confidential.