How it works
Getting tested is easier than you think.
Living kidney donation is one of the most profound gifts one person can give another. Here's everything you need to know — from the first question to the day of surgery and beyond.
You don't have to decide today.
The evaluation process is designed to protect you at every step. There is no obligation, no pressure, and no cost to you. You can stop at any point. All we're asking is that you learn a little more.
Reach out to Kat
Start with a simple message.
Send Kat a message using the contact form on this site. She'll connect you directly with the transplant team at her hospital. They are kind, experienced, and will answer every question you have — with zero pressure.
You can also call the transplant center directly. Kat can provide the number when you reach out.
Initial health screening
A quick conversation about your health.
The transplant team will ask you a few questions about your general health, medical history, and lifestyle. This is usually done over the phone or through a short online form. It's completely confidential and comes with no commitment.
Most healthy adults between 18 and 70 are eligible to be evaluated. You don't need to be a blood relative.
Medical evaluation
A thorough check-up — at no cost to you.
If the initial screening looks promising, you'll be invited for a full medical evaluation. This includes blood tests, imaging, and a physical exam. The entire evaluation is free of charge. Its purpose is to make sure donation is safe for you — not just for Kat.
Many travel and lodging costs related to the evaluation are also covered. The transplant team will walk you through what's included.
Compatibility testing
Finding out if you're a match.
Blood type and tissue compatibility are checked to see if your kidney would work well for Kat. Even if you're not a direct match, you may be able to participate in a paired exchange — where your kidney goes to another recipient, and Kat receives a compatible kidney from someone else.
Blood type O is compatible with all recipients. But don't rule yourself out — paired donation programs have helped thousands of people who weren't a direct match.
The decision is yours
You can say no at any point.
At every step of this process, you have the right to change your mind — for any reason, or no reason at all. The transplant team will never pressure you. If you decide not to proceed, your medical information stays private and Kat will never be told why.
This is your body and your choice. We are grateful for every person who considers it, regardless of the outcome.
Surgery and recovery
A safe, well-practiced procedure.
Living donor kidney surgery is performed laparoscopically — through small incisions — and typically takes 2–3 hours. Most donors spend 2–3 days in the hospital and return to normal activity within 4–6 weeks. Donors live full, healthy lives with one kidney.
The transplant team will be with you every step of the way, before, during, and after surgery.
“You can live a full, healthy life with one kidney. Donors do it every day.”
Common questions
Things people ask.
Ready to find out?
The first step is just saying hello.
Reach out to Kat and she'll connect you with the transplant team. No commitment, no pressure — just a conversation.