In a heartwarming story of selflessness and generosity, a father in Wales has made the decision to donate one of his kidneys to a stranger in need.
Arfon Jones’ daughter Seren, 19, had both of her kidneys removed and was required to be on dialysis for 10 hours every night until a kidney donor was found last April. Seren’s new kidney changed her life for the better and gave her a new lease on life.
Arfon, inspired by his daughter’s experience, decided to register as a living donor through the NHS Organ Donation program. Even though his kidney was not a match for his daughter, he felt a strong urge to help others in need.
“It was as if I heard a voice telling me ‘there is someone else who needs your kidney’ and I just felt that I had to stay on the list.”
In December, Arfon underwent a procedure to remove one of his kidneys. He was not given the identity of the individual who received his kidney but was informed that they were making progress in their health. “It felt like I’d given someone quite a nice Christmas present and it was nice to know that I’m healthy enough to donate a kidney given that I’m almost 70,” he said.