kidney failure

[twaflooers]

I have just found out that my sister is going into 'end stage renal failure'. She has had problems with her kidneys for a while but now her consultant is talking about a transplant. EEEK! She called me the other night and jokingly mentioned me giving her one of my kidneys.

Trouble is, the condition she has is generally inherited which means that I may have / develop the same thing. (Am waiting for an app. to be checked out) . I really want to help my sister but my concerns are that if it is inherited then:
(a) what if I give her one of mine and I then develop the same condition in my remaining kidney? and
(b) my children may at some point develop this problem, god forbid, and I feel I need to keep a hold of mine just in case they may need one.

Is that selfish? Is not offering her one of my kidneys on the off chance that my children might need them the right thing to do? I feel terrible knowing that I could have been in a position to help but didn't.

Any advice will be gratefully received.
Thanks =0) twaflooers

[Lore]

Hi twaflooers, sorry to hear of your sister's condition.

I feel you were put on the spot being asked in such a way, plus, you also have the emotional side of the situation with it being your sister.
I can fully understand your reasoning as to why you wish to keep both your kidneys and think that as long as you remain honest with her you shouldn't feel guilty in any way, shape or form.

However, If it were me in that situation I'd be looking where to sign. I know you have children and are worried that they might develop the condition, but that's a big might.. your sister is here and now and the problem is real.

Either way, I'm sure you'll not take this lightly and will think about it in great detail before making your decision.
As I said, you have nothing to feel guilty about, just be honest with her.
Good luck :)

[PhilBy]

If there is a possibility you share your sister's illness I wouldn't of thought you will be considered as a suitable donor?

Best wishes to you both :)

[Hellion]

The only thing I would add to what Lore says is go and see your Doctor and/or your sisters specialist and discuss it with them, voicing your concerns - take your sister with you so she knows you are giving it serious thought. My understanding is they only use a living donor if all other options are exhausted.
You are obviously a very caring sister so please don't feel guilty what ever you decide to do - you won't have made the decision lightly.
Hugs to you both.