In a groundbreaking achievement for WVU Medicine, the WVU Medicine Transplant Alliance has performed the Health System’s first-ever living donor kidney transplant. This significant procedure took place recently and promises to enhance treatment options for patients battling kidney disease within West Virginia.
The successful transplant was the result of meticulous planning by a team of skilled professionals including transplant surgeons, nephrologists, nurses, and support staff. This initiative not only aids patients who require kidneys but also highlights the importance of living donor transplants, which typically afford shorter wait times and improved long-term results over traditional deceased donor transplants.
The story of Erika Reid, a 45-year-old from Winchester, Virginia, and her childhood friend, Karen Orndorff, underscores the human element behind this medical milestone. After reestablishing their friendship, Reid’s health took a turn for the worse when she began experiencing symptoms of kidney failure, ultimately leading to hospitalization and dialysis.
Reid was placed on the transplant list after her condition deteriorated due to focal segmental glomerulosclerosis and hypertension. Rather than waiting for a donor, Orndorff stepped forward after seeing a post from Reid seeking potential matches for kidney donation.
“I just felt like it was the right thing to do. She needed help, and I could help her,” Orndorff said. Testing revealed she was a suitable match.
Reid expressed her deep gratitude, stating, “Karen is proof that there are angels among us. She’s a strong, selfless woman. I will never be able to put into words what this means to me.”
The intricate surgery was led by Dr. Rajeev Sharma, surgical director of the Kidney Transplant Program, alongside fellow surgeons Dr. Guilherme Costa and Dr. Nova Szoka. Both women are now recovering well and are expected to be discharged within a few days.
“This is a truly historic day for WVU Medicine,” Dr. Sharma remarked. “By offering living donor kidney transplants, we can significantly improve the lives of patients waiting for a donor organ.”
With the successful completion of this first living donor kidney transplant, WVU Medicine’s Transplant Alliance is further committed to providing comprehensive medical care for individuals facing end-stage kidney disease and other serious health challenges.
“We are thrilled to offer this life-saving option to our patients,” said Rachelle Zomak, director of operations and compliance for the Transplant Alliance. “This achievement underscores WVU Medicine’s dedication to providing advanced medical care and improving the health of our community.”
For more information about the WVU Medicine Transplant program and living donor kidney donation, visit WVUMedicine.org/Transplant or call 304-974-3004. To learn how to become an organ donor, visit RegisterMe.org/WVUMedicine.
