Jorge

 I received a kidney transplant on December 1st 2017 at Hospital Lomas San Luis. My living donor was my wife.

I was diagnosed with kidney failure in May 2017. The cause was Polycystic Kidney Disease. At that time both kidneys were working at a 18% of their capacity.

Fortunately (and I feel really blessed) I never had symptoms manifested. I was diagnosed because I was in the process of mobility to Brazil in the company that I work. They performed some check up exams and that is when we detected the problem (Phase 4 Kidney Disease).

I was very afraid in terms of how this would affect my life and family, but we were in the hands of an excellent medical team lead by Dr. Jorge Montes de Oca. The living kidney donor surgery involved the technique of laparoscopy, so my wife only had 3 really small scars. Her recovery was very short too. She left the hospital the 3rd day after surgery, and was released to normal life in 1 week!

My case was very similar, I could walk and took a bath by myself the next day of the surgery, and left the hospital on the 4th day! With no major pain or symptoms. My blood levels were like a normal and healthy person immediately after the surgery. After 1 week I visited the doctor at the hospital by myself. After 15 days I attended my son's Christmas presentation at school. I participated in Christmas and New Year dinners. My family couldn't believe I had a surgery. After 1 month I was driving by myself and being completely independent. I feel really good and to be honest I still can't believe that I have an extra kidney. No symptoms, no pain. I am extremely happy.

I was very fortunate that I could be compatible with my wife, so I never experienced dialysis or bad symptoms. So if kidney disease is detected in an early stage, looking for a living donor is key to have a good experience, similar to mine. So I would like to encourage people to donate, using this quote

"The reason God gave us 2 Kidneys is to have the

opportunity to donate 1"

I am very grateful for my wife Marissa, who not only has unconditionally supported me during the process, but she gave me a part of her body! What other proof of true love could I receive?

Location: San Luis Potosi, Mexico