Sammy Nandell wants to create more awareness for Organ Donation Day

It has always been Sammy Nandell’s mantra to use her experience to motivate and inspire others with her story.

She is a volunteer ambassador for the Organ Donation Foundation (ODF) and wants to make more people aware of Organ Donation Day on August 13.

This day aims to motivate others to pledge to donate organs after death and to spread awareness about the importance of organ donation.

“I want more people to get involved, and I also want to educate people along the way,” she said.

A story to share

Sammy was diagnosed with glomerulonephritis (GN) when she was 33 years old, and it has affected both her kidneys.

According to Healthline.com, GN is inflammation of the glomeruli, which are structures in your kidneys that are made up of tiny blood vessels.

These knots of vessels help filter your blood and remove excess fluids. If your glomeruli are damaged, your kidneys will stop working properly and you can go into kidney failure.

It all started with Sammy experiencing low blood pressure.

“When I got to the doctor, he informed me I had high blood pressure. After more medical tests I was diagnosed with GN.”

According to Sammy, she lived a normal life until one day when she did not feel quite so healthy.

“I went to the hospital and was told my one kidney completely failed and my other kidney was functioning at 15%. From there on I had to go for dialysis twice a week for four hours.”

Impact on family life

“At first dialysis had a major impact on my health, mentally and physically. It was a complete lifestyle-changing experience for me. Dietary and fluid restrictions had to be made.

“Nausea, weight loss, insomnia, fatigue, hair loss, cramps, weakness of my joints/muscles, low iron levels and in and out of the hospital for blood transfusion were some of the symptoms I experienced.

“But worse was seeing my husband and daughter enduring the emotional turmoil and the impact it had on us as a family. In their stride, they both took over all tasks and never left my side. The immense love and support from my husband and daughter have given me the will to live and never give up,” Sammy said.

She added that being hooked on a dialysis machine for four hours can be daunting.

“After having my treatments, I go back to work. The deforming scars on my arms create a constant stare, and questions are constantly asked. I have resorted to wearing long sleeves to cover up my scar, hoping this nightmare ends soon.”

Planning a vacation is another challenge for her as she has to find a dialysis centre in the area where they are going on vacation.

“Everything revolves around my dialysis sessions. Dialysis can be tough sometimes. It’s not all that bad, but sometimes it’s not great. I am grateful though to dialysis for giving me a second chance at life.

“My positive attitude changed how I saw my whole situation,” she said.

Mission of ODF

The mission is to educate South Africans on organ donation as well to encourage them to become donors and to eliminate fears, negativity, misconceptions, inaccurate information that prevents one from becoming an organ and tissue donors.

The reality

“Organ donation in South Africa is misconceived; hence, the conversation and action are avoided among many.
“Organ donation has saved many lives globally. For some, an organ transplant is their only hope to continue living.

“There is a dire shortage of available organs,” Sammy explained.

With so many people awaiting lifesaving transplants, ODF urges more people to register as organ donors.
“The sad reality is the need of lifesaving organ transplants is increasing much faster than the organs are becoming available. By becoming an organ and tissue donor, a person has the potential to save up to 50 lives when they die.”

Can one donate organs while they are alive?

“Yes, one can donate a kidney or a part of their liver. This will make the donor a living donor. The recipient and the donor will have to be the same blood group and tissue match.”

However, this is a personal choice. It is encouraged that people consider donating their organs when they die. This way, when your life comes to an end, you can help others to continue living theirs.

Becoming a donor is easy

Any person in good health and clear of defined chronic diseases that may adversely affect the recipient will be considered as a possible donor. All medical tests are done to see if you are eligible to be a donor are done at the time of your death. There is no age limit.

Sammy said the process to become a donor is straightforward, but it is very important to discuss the decision with your family.

Organ donation is made possible by heroes – people who voluntarily decide to donate organs and tissues for transplant.

“Donation costs absolutely nothing, no financial compensation is received by the donor or their family. Trading or selling of organs and tissue is illegal,” she said.

Register online at www.odf.org.za or call the Organ Donor Foundation toll-free line on 0800 22 66 11.

She also said the most important part of organ and tissue donation is that you undertake to make it known.

“Ensure you have the conversation with your family, colleagues and your friends.

“Be the answer to someone’s prayers, register as an organ donor now.”