Barbara Ryder and Andy Loudon

Barbara Ryder, a nurse from Cornwall, donated one of her kidneys to Andy Loudon – someone she had never met before. This type of altruistic donation has been made possible by the systems put in place by The HTA. Barbara and Andy were the UK’s first altruistic donor and recipient to meet. The HTA arranged a press conference in December 2007 – three months after the operation – where they told their stories to the media.

Barbara Ryder, altruistic kidney donor

"It has been eight months since I became an altruistic donor, and I don't think about it very often now. I feel even better than I did before, I am feeling really well. If I had another kidney to spare, I would certainly donate again.

"The process set up by the HTA to become an altruistic donor is extremely stringent, but is absolutely necessary to check that you know what is involved.

"As a nurse I knew from a medical perspective what would happen, but l didn't truly realise what the donation process would involve. Because it takes a long time, it really gives you a chance to think about it. There is no pressure to continue, and you always know that you can drop out if you change your mind.

"I am still in touch with Andy and his wife; we speak about once a month. In fact, they are coming to visit soon and we are planning to go out for dinner. He is very well and it is good to know how he is doing."