January 19th 2024.
Sue Westwood, a sprightly 75-year-old woman, has a remarkable story to tell. 50 years ago, her life was saved by a kidney transplant operation. Her mother, Ann Metcalfe, was the generous donor, as seen in the heartwarming photo of the two of them together. Sue was only 25 years old at the time, and her health had been deteriorating since her teenage years. She had to rely on a dialysis machine while waiting for a suitable kidney to become available. Luckily, her loving mother stepped in and offered one of her own, and miraculously, the organ is still functioning perfectly even after 108 years. As a matter of fact, it is believed to be the oldest transplanted kidney in the entire world.
Reflecting on her life-changing experience, Sue said, "When I had my transplant, I never imagined I would be so fortunate to have 50 more years of life. I owe it all to our amazing NHS, my mother's selfless act, and her strong genes." At the tender age of 18, Sue's mother passed away in a tragic car accident, but she would be overjoyed to know that her kidney has been keeping her daughter alive for so long. Sue fondly remembers her mother and feels grateful to carry a little piece of her with her always. She also expressed her deep appreciation for the outstanding treatment she has received from the NHS, without which she wouldn't be here today.
Another person celebrating 50 years since their kidney transplant is Robert Hughes, a 75-year-old man from County Durham. He received his transplant on January 18, 1974, from his late brother, John, who turned out to be a perfect match. To mark this significant milestone, Robert scheduled his regular check-up appointment on the exact date of his operation. The renal unit at South Tyneside and Sunderland NHS Foundation Trust organized a special celebration for both Robert and Sue. They were presented with a certificate and plaque, along with gifts and a delicious cake.
Dr. James Andrews, a consultant nephrologist, expressed his delight at welcoming Robert for his appointment on such a momentous day. He said, "It's an absolute honor for our team to be a part of this remarkable milestone. We are grateful for the opportunity to acknowledge the treatment that has made a positive difference in Robert's life, and the incredible gift his brother gave him. We hope that both Robert, Sue, and their families enjoyed their special day of celebrations, as it was a privilege for us to host this event for them."
Robert, who grew up in South West London, had just received his license as a jump jockey when his health took a turn for the worse. He had to give up his promising career and begin dialysis while his family underwent tests to find a suitable donor. Thankfully, his brother, John, was a perfect match and selflessly donated his kidney. A heartwarming photo captured the moment when Robert and his wife, Christine, got married, with his brother John, the donor, by their side.
Sue took this opportunity to urge people to sign up as organ donors. She said, "To all those people who think they'll eventually get around to signing up as organ donors, please remember that once you pass away, your kidneys are of no use to you. But they can bring immeasurable joy to someone else and their family, who are currently living a miserable life tied down to dialysis. They will forever be grateful to you." In a groundbreaking medical breakthrough last year, a whole-eye transplant was successfully performed on a human for the first time ever in New York. Aaron James, 46, was the recipient of this life-changing procedure after suffering severe facial injuries from an electric shock. It truly goes to show the incredible advancements in medical science, and the power of organ donation in giving people a second chance at life.
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