Jo

To Thank Everyone for Giving the Gift of Life Especially Curt My Hubby, My Donor 🩵 Read my story below.

Hi, my name is Joanne Iceton. I am the Clinical Educator for CICU at James Cook University Hospital. I have a huge passion for organ donation due to my personal experience.

At 15, I was diagnosed with Glomerulonephritis, a form of kidney disease. Initially, I was medically managed and supported by the renal team, at JCUH, who said I would eventually need dialysis or a transplant. During this time, I continued with life as best as I could and tried not to let my condition rule me, telling myself I'd cross any bridges as they arose.

I initially started working for JCUH as a HCA in CICU (yes, my condition made me choose my path!), studied hard to become an assistant practitioner, and finally qualified as a nurse. something I never thought possible. As my career developed, so did my renal disease. 20 years after my initial diagnosis I had end stage renal failure: I was yellow, I was sick and extremely tired and my life slowed. I needed a transplant.

After a lot of tests and a whole lot of emotions my amazing husband donated a kidney to me. I was fortunate to never be on dialysis and yet more blessed to have my family, friends, colleagues and renal team supporting me. Following my transplant, getting used to my new medication and regaining fitness, I returned to work within 6 months. Today, I feel amazing. I will remain forever indebted to my husband, it has taken lots of time on this roller-coaster to accept his gift-of-life with grace. I am extremely lucky to have continuing support from my personal and work families who help keep me normal. They are truly amazing.

It is an honour and a privilege to be Team Captain for the Race for Recipients challenge during organ donation week. To all those organ donors and their selfless families, "Thank you for our gifts-of-life."

Now sign up, clock up those activities and let's be the best team!!