How to Find a Donor

How to search for a kidney donor

If you or someone close to you needs a kidney transplant, searching for a donor can seem like an overwhelming challenge. But with the right information and appropriate guidance, a donor can be found and lives can be saved.

In Israel, the number of people waiting for a kidney transplant from a deceased donor is quite large, and the wait can last up to seven years, depending on blood type and other factors. Therefore, the option of finding a living donor becomes important. However, many people hesitate to donate, mainly due to two primary factors:

1. Fear of the unknown – People are deterred by actions they are unfamiliar with. The way to deal with this fear is to provide reliable and detailed information. Matnat Chaim offers the opportunity to speak with kidney donors and hear directly from them about their experience.
   
2. Concern for the donor’s health – There is a misconception that donating a kidney has negative health consequences. In practice, studies show that kidney donors live full and healthy lives, and are more likely to receive close medical monitoring, which contributes to their long-term health. Every donor undergoes strict medical and psychological evaluations, and the transplant is performed in leading medical centers, maintaining maximum safety and without fear of organ trafficking.

Searching for a donor close by

The first circle: Immediate family

The first place to look for a donor is among first and second-degree family members. In addition to greater medical compatibility, a donation from family allows for a significant shortening of the wait for a transplant. We recommend sharing reliable information about the process with family members (seehow to donate a kidney on this site), and  explaining the transplant procedure, the recovery period, and the donor’s health afterward. Matnat Chaim can help in organize conversations with previous donors and experts in the field.
Read more: Donation within the family

The second circle: Friends and community

If a donor is not found within the family, it is advisable to turn to friends, neighbors, colleagues, and community members. Matnat Chaim offers an informational booklet that can be distributed to raise awareness and recruit a suitable donor, and recommends holding a small event for friends and acquaintances. We are happy to assist you with these matters.

Beware of scammers

Unfortunately, there are people who exploit the distress of patients and offer dubious transplants in third-world countries. We have encountered quite a number of cases of patients who paid high sums without actually receiving a donation. Before any decision, it is recommended to consult with professionals and ensure that the transplant is performed in a certified and legal location.

Contact us

If you are looking for a donor or hesitating about donating, contact us for personal counseling and guidance. We are here to assist you in the process and connect you with donors, experts, and reliable information that can help. Contact us