Sacrifice brings renewed life

Life took a devastating turn for Pookae Mahaphuphanil when she was diagnosed with kidney failure in 2015 at the age of 44. The doctor presented her with two options: a kidney transplant or lifelong dialysis. Despite her daughter Sharon Boswell, then 22, volunteering to donate her kidney, Pookae initially declined, preferring dialysis.

A mother’s concern

As a single mother living in a rented room separate from her three daughters, Pookae did not want to burden them with the complex decision-making process and inherent risks of a transplant, especially with her youngest daughter still in secondary school. This weighed heavily on her.

Unexpected changes

Things unexpectedly changed when Sharon’s eldest sister secured a new home in Sembawang, bringing most of the family together. With Sharon living closer in Marsiling with her own family, she could visit her mother more frequently. These visits revealed the daily struggles her mother faced – early mornings leaving for work at 6am and returning home after 10pm on dialysis days.

Reflecting on this, Sharon said, “Spending more time with my mother made me realise firsthand how tough her life has been. She worked while undergoing dialysis, which was hard to watch. Eventually, we considered a kidney transplant for her.”

The option of a transplant resurfaced as Sharon and her sisters were determined to ease their mother’s burden. They believed it was crucial to give her a chance at a new life with a kidney transplant. They did not want to regret not trying when there was still an opportunity to help their mother. Pookae became receptive to the idea through family discussions, leading to Sharon’s renewed offer.

A daughter’s sacrifice

Sharon believed herself to be the most suitable donor among her sisters. Despite doubts about rejection, her husband’s support gave her strength. Throughout 2021, both underwent extensive tests to confirm compatibility. However, they discovered their blood types did not match. Still a direct donation was possible with additional treatments to lower rejection risk. They also considered a paired exchange programme, eventually opting for the former.

Embracing the new beginning

The transplant took place on 10 November 2021. Sharon is grateful to be able to benefit from NKF’s Kidney Live Donor Support Fund, which helps defray the cost of post-transplant expenses like medical check-ups and medication.

Pookae began recovering, embracing newfound freedom from dialysis. She visited relatives from Thailand, a luxury previously impossible. She also enjoyed cooking for her family and cherishing quality time with them. For Sharon, the journey reinforced the boundless depths of love and provided insight into her health, discovering high cholesterol and prompting lifestyle changes.

Their story is a testament to the resilience of the human spirit, offering hope to all who dare to dream amidst adversity.

“I wanted my mother to have a chance at a better life, one that is free from illness and filled with joy and vitality. This journey showed me the true meaning of love, driving us to overcome any obstacle in its path.”

Sharon Boswell, 31, gave her mother her kidney, the ultimate gift of life

“Receiving my daughter’s kidney was not just a gift of life, but a reminder of the strength and resilience that runs deep within a mother’s bond with her children.”

Pookae Mahaphuphanil, 53, is leading a fulfilling life with her new lease of life

Building a community of support through
Transplant Support Group

NKF’s Transplant Support Group fosters a community of mutual support. This group meets regularly, providing a platform for patients to discuss shared psychosocial issues and support one another. Transplant physicians are engaged to address transplant-related topics and the pressing issues of transplant preparedness and emotional readiness faced by pre-transplant patients. To date, about 35 patients have benefitted from this support group.

Steven Ong, 63, is an active member of the group where he passionately shares his transplant story. Steven’s journey with a transplanted kidney spans an impressive 42 years. In 1982, his then 42-year-old mother, Ang Tew Choon, was found to be a perfect match and she donated her kidney to him. Today, at 84, his mother is hale and hearty. His immense gratitude for his mother’s selfless act remains a cornerstone of his outlook on life, especially in supporting others contemplating a kidney transplant. During group sessions, Steven seeks to dispel fears about kidney donation, offering hope and reassurance to potential transplant patients, while spreading the message that transplantation can lead to a brighter, healthier future. He inspires others to consider the life-saving impact of kidney donation, fostering a culture of support and compassion.

“Thanks to my mom’s kidney donation 40 years ago, I gained a new lease of life. Joining a transplant support group has brought me newfound joy after years as a transplant patient. As a group leader, I assist pre-transplant patients, guiding them on their journey ahead.”

Steven Ong, a passionate advocate for kidney transplants