Organmeetings stories: The agonizing anticipation for a transplant

How did your journey lead you to the waiting list of the Hellenic Transplant Organization?

Ten years ago, I was diagnosed with a type of kidney disease called focal segmental glomerulosclerosis (FSGS) through routine work-related medical tests. Within two or three months, I started dialysis and was placed on the transplant waiting list of the Hellenic Transplant Organization after completing the necessary paperwork. Since then, I have had annual blood tests to check for compatibility with available donor kidneys. So far, I haven’t found a perfect match, despite being called to “Evangelismos” Hospital about ten times. Other kidney patients had a higher compatibility ranking and were given priority.

What is the situation regarding the waiting time for a transplant?

The average waiting time for a kidney transplant in Greece is seven years, whereas in France, for example, it is only two years. Awareness and the lack of a strong organ donation culture play a major role in this. Organ donation is not something we learn about from childhood or youth, unlike in other countries.

Would you say that perseverance is worthwhile in such a time-consuming process?

Yes, every moment of waiting is worth it because it is the only way to regain a quality of life. Just think about it—if I want to go on vacation, I must book a dialysis unit three months in advance before even securing accommodations for my family. Let alone when I have to decide on a trip abroad. In this case, I must contact a dialysis center and get them to accept me, and only then can I book my stay. If a compatible kidney is found, life becomes more normal again. At the same time, transplant recipients receive guidance from medical professionals: once you get a transplant, you must follow a healthy diet, exercise, take care of your overall well-being, and avoid bad habits.

How do you share your experience with other patients who are one step behind you in the process?

Patience is key because a transplant is a gift that will completely change our lives. Of course, I also feel normal anxiety—after all, it’s a critical surgery, and post-transplant life requires adjustments. There’s always the waiting period to see if everything goes well and whether the body fully accepts the organ. But I keep fighting because, in the end, I will be able to travel freely with my family again.