• A paired exchange donation involves two kidney donor/recipient pairs whose blood types are not compatible. The two recipients trade donors so that each recipient can receive a kidney with a compatible blood type. Once the evaluations of all donors and recipients are completed, the two kidney transplant operations are scheduled to occur simultaneously.
  
  
• Related living donors are healthy blood relatives of the potential recipient. They might be siblings, parents, children over the age of 18 or other blood relatives.
  
  
• Non-related known living donors are healthy individuals emotionally close to, but not blood related to the intended recipient. These individuals are usually spouses, in-law relatives, co-workers or friends.
  
  
• Altruistic (unknown, non-directed donation) living donors are not related to or known by the recipient. Their decision is purely out of selfless motives. This type of donation is also referred to as anonymous, altruistic, altruistic stranger, stranger-to-stranger, and non-directed living donation. Individuals who are interested in becoming non-directed donors should contact transplant centers in their area to discuss the possibility of becoming a donor.

• Cleveland Clinic (216) 445-3150
• Summa Health System Akron City Hospital Transplant Center (330) 375-3041
• University Hospital Case Medical Center (216) 844-3689
  

The Gift of a Lifetime
In 2004, Rachel donated one of her kidneys to her mother, Elizabeth who was previously diagnosed with kidney failure and had been on dialysis for almost a year.

"Rachel has provided her mother with a chance for a new life and the opportunity to enjoy many family events," said Dr. Mark Aeder, Surgical Director of Kidney Transplantation at University Hospitals Case Medical Center. Rachel has shown that someone cannot plan to become a hero but achieves the status by unselfishly reacting to a situation. Her gift has improved her mother's health and given her the ability to enjoy a dialysis-free life.