Kidney donor gave me the gift of life

I received a kidney transplant just before Christmas 2013. I am writing to describe the effect it has on my life.

I was on peritoneal dalysis for 20 months. I could do this myself at home but it meant four changes a day totalling about three hours a day. This dialyses sustained me but my life was just about existing rather than living and I tried to keep a positive outlook with my family support. I received a kidney on December 20, 2013. I woke up sore as you would from a major surgery. However, the next day my head felt clear as I had been constantly tired and went around with what I would describe as a cloud in my head. Every day since I have felt better.

I returned to work this week and I am delighted. I have got a second chance at living rather than existing and I am determined to do so. Everyday, I pray for my donor who is deceased and I pray for their family who are no doubt grieving their loss. I would love to tell them that the generous donor has given me life.

I would like your readers to consider the above and think about becoming donors.

Eddie Leahy

Rathpeacon

Co Cork