You could save his life
How to Become a Living Donor
The process is free, confidential, and guided by one of the nation's top transplant teams at The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center.
Why a Living Donor Is the Best Option
The national median wait for a deceased donor kidney is 27 months. At Ohio State, the median wait for a living donor transplant is just 2 months. A living donor kidney also lasts nearly twice as long as one from a deceased donor — and dramatically improves Brian's quality of life.
You don't need to be a blood type match. Ohio State's Kidney Paired Donation (KPD) program can match incompatible donor-recipient pairs with other pairs, so even if you're not a direct match for Brian, you can still save his life.
2 months
OSU median wait with a living donor
16.3 months
OSU median wait for a deceased donor kidney
27 months
National median wait for a deceased donor kidney
Source: srtr.hrsa.gov
Eligibility
Who Can Donate?
The decision to donate is entirely voluntary and confidential. You may change your mind at any time during the process.
The process
Step by Step
Watch the Education Video
Before evaluation begins, Ohio State requires you to watch a free 30-minute education video at go.osu.edu/KidneyDonorEducation. It covers everything you need to know about the process.
Watch the videoComplete the Online Health Questionnaire
Start the assessment by completing Ohio State's online health history questionnaire. Your information is reviewed by the living donor team, and if you're a potential candidate, they'll contact you directly.
Start the questionnaireMedical & Psychological Evaluation
The team conducts a thorough medical history review, physical exam, blood work, 24-hour urine collection, chest X-ray, EKG, and CT angiogram of your kidneys. A psychological evaluation provides support and assesses your understanding of the process.
Meet Your Living Donor Advocate
Every prospective donor meets with Ohio State's Living Donor Advocate — an independent, unbiased advocate who provides confidential support and ensures you fully understand what you're agreeing to.
Surgery & Recovery
Donation surgery is laparoscopic — small incisions, shorter hospital stay, faster recovery. Most donors go home the day after surgery and return to normal activities within 2–4 weeks. The recipient's insurance covers all medical costs for the donor.
Cost & Recovery
What Does It Cost the Donor?
Medical costs
$0 — covered by Brian's insurance
Evaluation & testing
Fully covered
Surgery
Fully covered
Hospital stay
Typically 1–2 days
Return to work
Usually 2–4 weeks
Full recovery
4–6 weeks
Travel and lodging assistance may be available. Ohio State employees receive paid time off for donation.
Ready to Take the First Step?
Contact the Ohio State living donor team directly — or reach out to Brian's family. Every inquiry is confidential.