Thread: How can I approch extended family members about donating a kidney to me?

I have been on dialysis for 2 years and no one except my younger brother has come forward to offer to donate a kidney to me. My brother was not able to donate because he was the wrong blood type. None of my cousins, aunts or uncles have shown any interest. I feel like I shouldn't have to ask, that they should volunteer. I don't know what to do. Should I ask one on one or just send it out through the family grape vine?

it would be less awkward for everyone involved if you just let it go out through the grapevine.

wow...thats rough! i would have offered a kidney to you if i knew you in real life! id send it out through the grapvine

I would let the brother be the one to pass on the news that you need a kidney. But do not be shocked if you find out that they still will not come forward to offer you their kidney. You may just have to be put on a waiting list in order to get the kidney that you need. It was a good thing that your brother came forward and tried to give you his kidney. I am sure that other family members are already aware that you need a kidney and that your brother was not a match. Yet they still did not come forward. Many people just do not like going to the hospital or undergoing surgery. It may have nothing to do with how they feel about you it is just that.

I would gather your family together and tell them all how much you want to live a dialysis free life where you have a shot at being healthy and one day a mom and wife...... and ask them to help You make your dream come true by getting tested to see if any of them are a match and would be willing to donate a kidney to you as it is usually much more successful with a closely related person as a donor.. As a nurse I am sure there is someone in your family who would be willing to do this for you if they knew it is what you wanted and needed to be happy and healthy. As a nurse I can tell you....Sometimes people just to not think and have to be woken up to the need you have..