TO BE A POSSIBLE DONOR FOR PATRICK...
Contact:
Transplant Coordinator
University of Minnesota
1-800-328-5465 - Choose Option 1
or call
612-672-7272
give Patrick's full name and date of birth:
Patrick Sibert, 2/24/94
When you call, follow the automated prompts. If you get voice mail, just leave your name and number and say why you're calling, and she'll get back to you. Please be patient, it may take her a couple of days to call you back, but if you don't hear back from her, please try again. Once you've been tested, you will need to call for your results in 7-10 days.
We (Patrick's family) started this blog after deciding that we need to take an active part in finding Patrick the kidney he desperately needs. It's been quite a roller coaster for Patrick and his family the last few months, and after hearing the latest news from his doctors, that he only has a 6% chance of finding a compatible donor, we know we cannot just sit back and do nothing. We started this blog in addition to Patrick's CaringBridge page in hopes of reaching out to as many people as possible to help spread the word about his need for a kidney so he can find a compatible donor. We thought Kidney for Patrick was a perfect name because it is easy for people to remember and straight to the point. We hope that soon, everyone will know about
www.kidneyforpatrick.com. We will be sure to keep you updated on all the latest in our search for a donor. Please help spread the word about Patrick and this blog site any way you can. Thank you.
Why is Patrick's chance of finding a donor less than anyone else waiting for a kidney?
Patrick is what is called "sensitized". This is because he has too many harmful antibodies built up in his body. Patrick underwent a series of treatments called Plasmapheresis, which were unsuccessful in removing the antibodies. To learn more,
click here.
Common questions about getting tested to be a donor...
Do I have to have a certain blood type to be Patrick's donor?
Yes, you need to have a blood type of A or O to be a possible donor for Patrick. It doesn't matter if it's positive or negative, only if your type is A or O.
How do I find out of I am a match or not?
If you know your blood type you're one step ahead. But if you don't know your blood type, that's okay, they can find that out. Contact Cathy Garvey at 1-800-328-5465 (seer her contact info above). Cathy will ask you a few questions and if you're eligible she will send you a packet with information about being a donor. Once you receive your packet all you have to do is go to your local clinic and get some blood drawn. The paperwork and everything you need for this will be in your packet. It takes 7-10 days for the results. Cathy will call you to let you know if you are a match.
What does it cost to find out?
There is no cost to you whatsoever to find out if you're a match. There is information on that in your packet
.
What if I live in a different state?
It doesn't matter what state you live in, you can still be tested. Funds are being raised to help cover expenses, including any necessary travel expenses for the donor.
What about age?
You need to be at least 18 years or older to donate.
How healthy do I need to be?
Cathy Garvey will ask you some health related questions and determine if you are eligible to be a donor.
Will my own health be affected if I become a donor?
Studies show that people who donate their kidney are just as healthy as those who don't. There is an excellent news article in the Minneapolis Star Tribune about being a kidney donor. To read, click here.
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