Deeply driven by our culture of True care, Dr Domingos Machado, Nephrologist and Diaverum's Transplantation Ambassador, made a life-changing decision a few years ago – he put himself forward as a kidney donor to an anonymous renal patient, at age 70.
“Caring for CKD patients and witnessing the profound difference receiving a kidney can make in empowering them to live fulfilling lives has over the years become my life’s cause and driven my dedication towards being an advocate for transplantation”, says Dr Domingos, who lives in Portugal.
“Deciding to become a non-directed kidney donor was in some ways, a continuation of this path; while it wasn’t originally my intention to do so, I agreed to the public disclosure of my donation, in order to raise awareness about transplantation.
In the years since, it seems to have contributed to a significant increase in the number of donation candidates in Portugal – more than the satisfaction of helping one individual, nothing could have given me greater joy.”
Watch the video below to hear Dr Domingos’ truly inspiring story.
It is essential to point out that transplantation is not a cure for chronic kidney disease; it is only a treatment. You will still need lifelong medication. But, for many, a kidney transplantation will provide a higher degree of independence and allow them to live a fulfilling life.
Watch the video below to learn more about transplantation.