Mary England - Kidney Recipient

 The phone rang at 4.45am one morning and a voice said “Hi Mary, we have a perfect matching kidney for you- are you well? Make your way in one hour’s time to the Transplant ward and the Transplant Team will meet you there”.  My heart stopped for a moment- I was shocked, scared, excited-every emotion possible ran through my head.  At the same time I was very aware that some special family in New Zealand was grieving for their loved one and what an incredible gift I had been given- a second chance of life.

I would have to say having a Kidney Transplant was the hardest mountain I have ever had to climb.

Dealing with anti-rejection drugs and their side effects, body changes, going to the Transplant Clinic everyday at 8am for the first few months, then tapering; all of this has been an emotional roller coaster.

I was surrounded by an incredible team of top surgeons.  One day out of the blue the doors had opened, my eyes were bright and, oh I couldn't believe it!  I was free to fly anywhere in the world like everyone else. I could eat an orange after six years and not feel sick afterwards. As for drink-I had no limit anymore as now I can pee without a dialysis machine- orange, grape, pineapple juice, hot chocolates etc.......I'm free!

After five and a bit years on dialysis and the amazing journey I've had, I have learnt  so much and crossed paths with so many people who have enriched my life and I still have so much  ahead of me. What pops into my mind everyday is my special angel and that amazing family that have offered new life to people like myself- they are so  unselfish and so  giving.  I promise to love Charlie (my kidney) unconditionally and never abuse him.  A new door has been opened and I thank you from the bottom of my heart for this second chance at life.

Click here to help us raise awareness or make a donation today!