Organ donation gave Matthew a second chance at life

Matthew Legemaate, born with a congenital heart defect and severe pulmonary atresia, has been on the waiting list for a heart and double-lung transplant for nine years. In 2017, after receiving the transplant at Busamed Gateway Private Hospital, he felt grateful to finally be able to engage in activities such as sports and being active.

Now at 27, he cycles, pursues photography, and is nearing completion of his studies to become a professional chef. Back on the waiting list, Marilee Chananie received a kidney and pancreas transplant in 2014, which transformed her life, but she continues to face challenges with her transplanted pancreas and requires regular dialysis.

Chananie remains active and participates in the South African Transplant Sports Association, waiting patiently for another kidney transplant. National Organ Donor Awareness Month in South Africa aims to raise awareness about the importance of organ donation, as one organ donor can potentially save up to seven lives. However, Reka Howbrook, Regional Transplant Manager for Netcare in KwaZulu-Natal, highlights the ongoing challenge of a shortage of organ donors in the country.