‘I got my life back’ - Dublin dad shares transplant story
A Dublin father of two who underwent a life-saving liver transplant is encouraging potential donors to share their wishes with their families.
Dublin City Council employee John Kelly, who is originally from Dublin 3 and now lives in Sandyford, is sharing his story of a life-saving liver transplant that took place earlier this year. As John recovers, he’s speaking publicly about the impact of organ donation and the vital conversations needed to make it possible.
With Organ Donor Awareness Week taking place until May 23, John has spoken about his prolonged and complex battle with liver disease that had him on the transplant waiting list for two years. Having experienced multiple setbacks, he finally got the call that saved his life.
“ I got my own life back ,” John said. “I’m incredibly grateful to my donor and their family. Their decision has given me the chance to be here for my family and to enjoy everyday life again.”
John credits the support of his family, particularly his partner Sandra, and the understanding shown by colleagues during his illness. “Organ failure affects the whole family,” he said. “The support I received made a huge difference when I needed it most.”
As he continues his recovery, John hopes to return to work later this year and is using his experience to encourage others to act. “Having a donor card is important, but what really matters is telling your family your wishes. Don’t leave your loved ones in doubt.”
John’s personal story aligns with the goal of Organ Donor Awareness Week, the annual campaign organised by the Irish Kidney Association (IKA) in collaboration with the HSE’s Organ Donation Transplant Ireland (ODTI). To show support for the campaign, Dublin City Council will illuminate key civic buildings in green - the international colour of organ donation - from dusk to dawn, including Dublin City Hall, the Civic Offices at Wood Quay, and the Mansion House.
Speaking about the campaign, Lord Mayor Councillor Ray McAdam said “organ donation is about life, hope and the love people show for others they may never meet”. “By lighting our civic buildings in green and supporting this campaign, Dublin City Council is standing with families whose lives have been changed forever by organ donation,” he said.
“John’s story brings home the reality behind the statistics, that someone is alive today because another family made a deeply generous decision at a time of great loss. We want people across Dublin to talk to their loved ones and to share their wishes, because those conversations can save lives.”
For more information on Organ Donor Awareness Week and how to get an organ donor card, visit www.ika.ie/donorweek
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