You could save a life
How to Donate
The process is simpler than most people think. Here's what it looks like, step by step.
Living kidney donation is one of the most profound gifts one person can give another. Donors live full, healthy lives with one kidney — and the kidney they give can last Karen nearly twice as long as one from a deceased donor. Here's how it works.
Reach Out
The first step is simply expressing interest. You can contact Karen's transplant center directly or reach out to our family through this site. There is no commitment at this stage — just a conversation.
Initial Screening
You'll complete a short health questionnaire to see if you might be a candidate. This is free, confidential, and takes just a few minutes. Most healthy adults between 18 and 70 are eligible to be evaluated.
Medical Evaluation
If the initial screening looks good, the transplant center will schedule a full medical and psychological evaluation — at no cost to you. This ensures donation is safe for you and that you're making a fully informed decision.
Surgery & Recovery
Donor surgery is typically laparoscopic (minimally invasive), with a hospital stay of 2–3 days and a recovery of 2–4 weeks. Most donors return to normal activity quickly and report feeling proud of their decision.
Life After Donation
People live long, healthy lives with one kidney. Donors are monitored with regular follow-up care, and studies show no significant difference in life expectancy. You give one kidney — and Karen gets her life back.
Common Questions
Do I need to be a blood relative?
No. Living donors can be family members, friends, coworkers, or even strangers who feel called to help. What matters is compatibility, not relationship.
What does it cost me?
Nothing. All medical costs related to the donation are covered by Karen's insurance. There are also programs to help with travel and lost wages.
What if I'm not a match for Karen?
You may still be able to help through a paired exchange program, where your kidney goes to another patient and Karen receives a compatible kidney in return.
Can I change my mind?
Absolutely. You can withdraw at any point in the process, for any reason, with no pressure and no explanation required.
Ready to Find Out More?
The evaluation is free and comes with no obligation. Just being willing to find out could change Karen's life.