Donor dodges goose to give kidney

“I was all set to become an anonymous altruistic donor,” says Bob McRae. “I'd weighed the risks and benefits, did extensive research, underwent testing, discussed it all with my family and joined Canada's Living Donor Paired Exchange registry.”

But life is full of unexpected surprises. The night before McRae's Gatineau departure for Vancouver (to be part of a domino kidney transplant involving four recipients) a Canada goose flew into him while he was riding his bike.

“I remember thinking how relieved I was that I was okay, and could still donate. I laughed about it with the transplant nurse who'd called me to confirm. It would have been tragic if anything had happened.”

Instead, looking back, Bob McRae says he has only positive memories of his decision and the outcomes.

“I would do it again at the drop of a hat,” he continued. “I've been canvassing for the Kidney Foundation for years, raising funds to support research and patient programs. Given my own personal health and stability, and the support of family and work, it seemed like the next logical step.”

In the past, McRae's uncle and two cousins suffered from genetic kidney disease, but he, his mother and his five siblings have been spared. He recalls his mother as being an inspiring model of altruism and benevolence.

“There are minimal risks to becoming a living organ donor,” McRae confirms. “Better still, I soon realized that by joining the national Living Donor Paired Exchange registry, my own donation might result in a domino effect that could improve the lives of several people and not just one recipient.”

Expenses are also largely covered. An initiative called the Living Organ Donor Expense Reimbursement Program, works to ensure that there are very few out-of-pocket expenses incurred by the donor. This plan is available in one form or another in practically every province across the country.

“I would absolutely encourage anybody who really wants to make a difference—and is in a position to do so—to take the step of investigating living organ donation and possibly becoming a donor. The care and attention that I received from the organ donation staff and doctors throughout my experience were wonderful. If I had another kidney to give, I'd do it again."

www.newscanada.com