Decision to Donate
A grandfather from Aberdeen, Ian Rodger, has shared his experience of donating a kidney to a stranger in need. He reflected on the fact that humans have two kidneys but only require one to live healthily.
"We have two - we only need one,"he said.
Ian, a 58-year-old self-employed architect originally from Anstruther in Fife, was motivated to donate after learning about the number of people who die while waiting for organ transplants.
His donated kidney was given to a patient receiving treatment in Birmingham, an event described as "lightning bolt" news by the recipient's transplant coordinator.
Ian expressed a desire to share his story to increase awareness of living organ donation and encourage others to consider helping those in need.
Context of Organ Donation in the UK
According to NHS Blood and Transplant, the UK transplant waiting list has reached record levels, with over 8,200 individuals currently awaiting lifesaving transplants. More than 6,500 of these patients require a kidney transplant.
Initial Steps and Family Reaction
Ian began exploring the possibility of organ donation approximately two years prior to his operation. He was particularly impacted by information regarding waiting lists and the number of deaths among those waiting.
"I just thought 'I can do something here',"he told BBC Radio Scotland's Drivetime.
The evaluation process involved extensive physical and psychological testing to ensure Ian was a suitable donor.
Ian noted that his family was initially "stunned, shocked and surprised" by his decision to donate a kidney. However, they found reassurance in the ongoing health checks he would undergo before and after the operation.
"They were behind me,"he said.
"I had nothing but support. It needed their full support."
Preparation and Emotional Impact
Prior to the surgery in Edinburgh, Ian attended a session with previous donors and recipients. The experience was deeply moving for him.
"I was in tears, it was amazing,"he recalled, describing the session as "life-changing" for those involved.
"What moved me was the transformation,"he added.
The Operation
Ian's operation took place towards the end of 2025.
"There's a link formed as soon as I'm told that there's a recipient who's desperately in need of a kidney,"he explained.
He described how he stopped playing badminton to avoid injury that could delay the surgery, showing concern for the recipient's urgent need.
"I stopped playing badminton, I didn't want to hurt myself, and stop this operation happening. I was looking out for them."
Following simultaneous blood tests, the operation was scheduled two weeks later.
"I went down to Edinburgh full of excitement, and that helps your recovery. You don't know who it's gone to."
Ian said the recipient was classified as Tier One, indicating a critical need for a kidney transplant.
"They had been told the chances were they would not manage to have a compatible kidney, so a lightning bolt I think was how the co-ordinator described my kidney matching."
Aftermath and Reflections
Ian's kidney was transported by air to Birmingham on the same day as his surgery.
He described the entire experience as a "journey which was definitely worth taking."
"The link is forged, the icing on the cake would be a letter from the recipient, that would really make my day,"he said.
"It's not essential, I'm just happy I've done this."
Ian emphasized that the operation itself was not difficult and expressed satisfaction in having helped someone in need.
"It wasn't a big deal operation-wise. I feel so so good, I've helped somebody."
"It's such a rewarding thing to have done. They will remain in my thoughts and prayers."
