Hi Friends, Well my story started 18 months ago when my wife Nicky was told that she would have to start dialysis treatment after her previous transplant was failing.  She had however been on the UK Transplant List for 3/4 years but without success.  I immediately went to  see if I could be tested as a donor.  Unfortunately we were not only incompatible both in tissue type but also our blood group.  I was so dissappointed.  13 months down the line we were extremley fortunate to  be offered a relatively new treatment.  This would involve Nicky being stripped of her anti bodies so as not to reject my kidney. After we gratefully excepted, an operation date was arranged, so as this treatment known as being de-sensitised could begin, roughly 3/4 weeks before the operation.  Under the care of amazing Doctors the treatment began and was a great success although exhausting for Nicky.  Well it was my turn to play my part now.  On the 22nd August we were admitted to Southmead Hospital, Bristol for our respective operations.  This was extremley emotional for the both of us, especially when I was told that the surgeons were ready for me and we had to be parted.  It was fortunately made bearable as one of the lovely co-ordinators accompanied me to theatre and then with Nicky later.  My operation was a great success, with Nicky then being able to follow me down a few hours later to receive her new kidney.  We both recovered well with  me only spending 3 days in hospital before being discharged and Nicky following 3 days later. With the wonderful care that was given to us by the whole renal team it has inspired me to do this trek of Hadrian's Wall, to not only raise funds but to raise awareness of becoming a living donor.  Not only am I able to do this walk 6 weeks after donating my kidney but I am also able to return to work.  If anyone is in the fortunate position of donating kidney, all I can say is it is the best feeling I have ever had.  What could be better than giving someone the Gift Of Life.

Thankyou for reading my story.  I hope it has inspired you to donate to this wonderful cause.

 

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