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It is important that you think about your decision carefully. Making the decision to donate can be difficult for some people. If you are having trouble with the decision, it might help to talk to friends or family members. You could also speak with the living donor coordinator. If you want more help or someone else to talk to, the living donor coordinator could refer you to the donor social worker.

Kidney donation is a sacrifice. It involves surgery that is not needed for your overall health. It is natural to have some concerns about becoming a kidney donor. Here are some reasons that donation may not be right for you:

• Lack of  resources to take time off work for evaluations, surgery and recovery
• Responsibilities like young children, elderly parents, work
• Lack of family support
• Feeling pressure to donate
• Expecting payment

If you choose not to donate, do not forget that living kidney donation is voluntary. The fact that you took the time to learn about the process of living donation and carefully consider it is commendable. The donor team will support you in your decision. We will help you to communicate your decision to the potential recipient.

If you are having trouble making your decision, you may find The Ottawa Personal Decision Guide helpful. There is a copy enclosed in the package we sent to you. You can also access it on the Ottawa Hospital Research Institute website at: http://decisionaid.ohri.ca/decguide.html.

Last updated on: December 5th, 2016