Donating a kidney to a child
THE IMPORTANCE OF KIDNEY DONATION FOR CHILDREN
Children usually have to wait 6 to 12 months for a kidney transplant according to the NHS. But, some children might wait as long as five years. This wait can depend on a few things like the availability of matching donors, the child’s specific medical needs, and the urgency of their condition. During this time, children often need regular medical care and support to manage their health. Families and healthcare teams work together to ensure the best possible outcome while waiting for a suitable donor.
CAN ADULTS DONATE A KIDNEY TO A CHILD?
Adults can donate a kidney to a child if they are a directed donor. Living donors for children are usually close relatives, though options such as the UK Living Kidney Donation Sharing Scheme are also available depending on the circumstances.
In the UK, non-directed donors cannot choose who gets their kidney. Kidneys are given to both children and adults using national plans, designed to be fair and make the best use of each kidney, helping as many patients as possible have a successful transplant.
CAN A PARENT DONATE A KIDNEY TO THEIR CHILD?
Living kidney donation from a parent to their child is the most common form of donation for children waiting for transplants. Grandparents or siblings can also donate – aunts, uncles and other family members, or close friends might be able to donate too. Parents are often able to donate a kidney because they’re biologically compatible with their child, however someone may still be able to donate a kidney through the UK Living Kidney Sharing Scheme even if they are not a perfect match for the recipient.
Before donating a kidney, several medical checks are needed. Donors must be healthy and able to live with one kidney after they donate. The decision to donate is also emotional and requires careful thought about the risks and benefits. Psychological support is available if needed, and can be important to make sure that both the donor, the recipient, and their family are prepared for the surgery and recovery. While donation can be rewarding, ongoing support is important for everyone’s emotional well-being.
MYTHS VS FACTS ABOUT DONATING A KIDNEY TO A CHILD
Myth: The donor will have to go through major surgery and will experience a long recovery time
Fact: A kidney is now typically removed with “keyhole” or laparoscopic surgery. This involves making several small cuts (1–3 cm each) to take out the kidney. Recovery from a kidney donation operation can take from 2-12 weeks, depending on the individual person’s progress.
Myth: Donating a kidney will significantly impact my own health
Fact: Research has shown that living kidney donors have similar life expectancies and overall health as non-donors. It’s important for donors to follow up with their healthcare team and continue to lead a healthy lifestyle after donation, but there should not be any significant long-term health effects.
Myth: I am too old to donate a kidney
Fact: Age is not the only factor considered when evaluating potential donors. As long as you are in good health and your kidney function is good, you may still be able to donate even if you are older. Each donor is evaluated on an individual basis.
Myth: A child will no longer have to take medication or have regular medical care after receiving a kidney transplant
Fact: Getting a kidney transplant can really help improve a child’s health and quality of life, but it’s important to know they will still need some medicines and ongoing medical care. They will have to take anti-rejection medicines for life to stop their body from rejecting the new kidney. Regular check-ups and monitoring are also needed to keep the transplanted kidney healthy.