What Do I Write on My Kidney Donor Search Microsite?
Creating your microsite is an important step in your donor search. Your microsite gives you a place to tell potential donors about yourself and share your kidney health journey. Sharing information about yourself can help potential donors understand your situation better and potentially feel a connection to you, which makes them more likely to be willing to donate on your behalf.
Here’s what to write on your microsite to increase your chances of finding a living kidney donor.
Personal Details
Don’t forget the basics: your name, age, occupation/student status, where you live, and family details. You may not think these details matter, but they do—living kidney donors often mention feeling a connection to the person they donated to, and something these connections can be based on small things you have in common. The more you share, the better the chances you will have something in common with a potential donor.
Your Diagnosis and Medical Journey
Many potential donors have no idea what it’s like to be in kidney failure, or how and why the condition occurs. Describing your diagnosis, medical condition, and the treatments or procedures you’ve undergone so far can give potential donors a better idea of your health status and the daily challenges you face. Describe how your kidney failure has affected your life and feel free to share personal anecdotes and experiences, which can help potential donors connect with you on a deeper level.
Your Living Donor Search
It’s extremely important to explain to potential donors why you are searching for a living kidney donor. Share why family members or friends are unable to donate on your behalf and explain that living donor kidneys are far superior to deceased donor kidneys because they reduce wait times, have better outcomes, and can last up to twice as long.
Hobbies and Interests
Share some of your hobbies, interests, community service experiences, and things you enjoy doing in your free time. This helps potential donors get to know you beyond your medical condition and gives them additional ways to relate to you.
Hopes and Dreams
What would your life look like after a successful living donor kidney transplant? Potential donors are interested not only in the donation itself but how their generous act might change your life. Explain how receiving a living donor kidney transplant would improve your quality of life. Share your hopes and dreams, including what you want to do after you receive a transplant—trips you’d like to take, experiences you’d like to have, etc.
While writing your story on your microsite, remember:
Be honest: Be transparent about your medical condition, your need for a kidney transplant, and the challenges you face. Potential donors appreciate authenticity, and providing accurate information will help build trust from the outset.
Be positive: While it’s important to be honest about your condition, it’s equally important to highlight your positive qualities and outlook on life. Focus on your resilience, determination, and optimism despite facing challenges. Potential donors are more likely to be drawn to individuals who approach their situation with positivity and hope.
Show gratitude: Don’t forget to express gratitude to potential donors for considering donating a kidney on your behalf. Let them know how much their generosity would mean to you and how it would positively impact your life. A heartfelt thank you can go a long way in showing appreciation and fostering a sense of connection.