Former Colleague Donates Kidney Following Man’s Online Appeal

A man is recovering from a successful kidney transplant, which occurred after a former colleague responded to his urgent online appeal for a donor. Jamie Lonsdale, aged 36, posted this appeal on Facebook, where it was seen by Lauren Lane, 30. Mr. Lonsdale, a resident of Monton, Greater Manchester, had been on the transplant waiting list for over two years following the failure of a previously donated kidney in 2022. He stated, “I was just expecting people to wish me well but to have Lauren come forward was just a dream come true.” Before seeking assistance, he had been significantly impacted by dialysis treatments four times a week and additional health complications. Mr. Lonsdale commented, “It was totally unexpected and a huge ask and I was pretty embarrassed about having to post on Facebook but I was just so desperate.” He further described his condition, saying, “It was quite a grim situation really. I wasn’t sure if I would get a call but felt like I had to do something.” He added, regarding Ms. Lane’s contribution, “Lauren has made a big sacrifice. She was fit and well and I was at the end of life.” Mr. Lonsdale also stated, “I have got my life back for another 20 years at least.” Ms. Lane, who resides in Manchester and is also recovering from the operation, explained, “We worked together for a few years and I went on to work for another company.” She added, “I just saw the appeal and felt I needed to do something.” The PhD student further mentioned a personal motivation for her decision to respond to the appeal. She elaborated, “My dad passed away in 2018. He was on the transplant list for a liver but sadly he didn’t get it in time.” Ms. Lane concluded, “I have been really lucky all of my friends and family understand my personal reasons for what I did.” For additional content, BBC Radio Manchester is available on Sounds, and BBC Manchester can be followed on Facebook, X, and Instagram. Story ideas can be submitted to northwest.newsonline@bbc.co.uk or via Whatsapp to 0808 100 2230. This article is Copyright 2024 BBC. All rights reserved. The BBC disclaims responsibility for the content of external sites and provides information regarding its approach to external linking.