I am a match with “O”, “A” or “B” blood groups and here’s why…

Testing to see if you can donate a kidney begins with a simple blood test. The test will determine your blood type and if it will be compatible with my blood.

A genetic match to donate a kidney is not necessary anymore because of improvements in medical technology and the anti-rejection medication necessary post-transplant. I have type “O” blood so donors within type “O” group would be the most compatible donor.

But I have been tested and approved to receive a transplant from potential donors with type “A” or “B” blood as well. St. Michael’s Hospital is one of the transplant centers that can filter my blood to be compatible with potential donors with type “A” or “B” blood. Potential donors with type “O”, “A” or “B” blood are all compatible*.

While these have been difficult times and I have already had two donors rejected based on incidental findings, I feel lucky to know that the search has been expanded to include kind and courageous people with “A” and “B” blood types.

* “+” or “-” doesn’t matter