Living Donation
Myths & FAQs
Thinking about living kidney donation comes with a lot of questions, and sometimes, a few misunderstandings.
This page is here to give you honest answers and clear up some of the most common myths. Whether you’re curious about how donation works, wondering if you might be eligible, or just want to learn more, you’ll find straightforward information here. The more we know, the stronger Todd’s Squad becomes.
Living Donation
Myths & FAQs
Thinking about living kidney donation comes with a lot of questions, and sometimes, a few misunderstandings.
This page is here to give you honest answers and clear up some of the most common myths. Whether you’re curious about how donation works, wondering if you might be eligible, or just want to learn more, you’ll find straightforward information here. The more we know, the stronger Todd’s Squad becomes.
Living Kidney Donation Myths vs. Facts
Myth: “Only family members can donate.”
Fact: Many successful transplants are from friends or strangers. Blood type and tissue compatibility matter more than relation.
Myth: “Kidney donation is extremely risky.”
Fact: Donation surgery is very safe, with donor safety as the top priority. Risks are similar to other common surgeries.
Myth: “Donors have to pay for the surgery.”
Fact: The recipient’s insurance covers evaluation, surgery, and follow-up care.
Myth: “Donation takes too much time away from life and work.”
Fact: Most donors are back to work in 2-3 weeks, unless your job is physically demanding.
Myth: “If I’m not a match, I can’t help.”
Fact: You can join paired kidney exchanges or simply share Todd’s story to help find a donor.
Myth: “I’ll be left weak or unhealthy after donating.”
Fact: Most donors return to their normal lifestyle—including exercise, travel, and full activities—after recovery.
Myth: “You can’t live a normal life with one kidney.”
Fact: One kidney can do the work of two. Donors live long, healthy, active lives.
Myth: “Donating means I won’t be able to have kids.”
Fact: Many donors go on to have healthy pregnancies and families.
Living Kidney Donation FAQs
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Living donation is when a healthy person donates one of their kidneys to someone whose kidneys no longer work properly. A single healthy kidney can do the work of two.
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Most healthy adults (generally between 18–65) may be considered. Donors undergo medical and psychological evaluations to ensure safety.
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No. Many living kidney donations come from friends, co-workers, or even generous strangers.
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Living donation is a well-established medical procedure with a very high safety record. Donor health is always the top priority.
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Most donors spend 2–4 days in the hospital and return to work and normal activities within 4–6 weeks, depending on the type of work.
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Studies show living kidney donors live as long as people with two kidneys. Donors can lead full, active lives after donation.
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Medical expenses related to the evaluation, surgery, and follow-up are covered by the recipient’s insurance. Donors may have travel or time-off expenses, but there are support programs to help.
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You can still help! Through paired exchange programs, your kidney could help another recipient while Todd receives a kidney from a different donor.
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Yes. Most donors can still have healthy pregnancies and children.
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You can stop the donation process at any time. The transplant team supports your decision fully and confidentially.
Start the Conversation
Interested in learning more about the donation process? Todd’s transplant team has a dedicated coordinator to answer your questions, explain next steps, and help you explore whether living donation might be right for you.
Reaching out is simple, private, and doesn’t commit you to anything - it’s just the first step toward getting the facts.
Start the Conversation
Interested in learning more about the donation process? Todd’s transplant team has a dedicated coordinator to answer your questions, explain next steps, and help you explore whether living donation might be right for you.
Reaching out is simple, private, and doesn’t commit you to anything - it’s just the first step toward getting the facts.