Frequently Asked Questions
Learning about living kidney donation naturally comes with questions. Here you'll find clear, straightforward answers to the questions people ask most often. If you don't find what you're looking for, the transplant team
is always happy to help.
There is never any obligation—learning more is simply the first step.
Common Questions About Living Kidney Donation
What is the difference between a directed and an undirected living donor?
Allison is hoping to find a living donor whose kidney can be donated directly to her.
This is called a directed living donation.
In a directed living donation, the donor chooses a specific recipient. In an undirected living donation, a donor chooses to give a kidney anonymously to someone they have never met.
Are living donors financially protected?
Yes. Allison's insurance covers the donor's medical costs: evaluation, testing, surgery, hospital charges, and up to six months of post-surgical and follow-up care. You will not receive medical bills for donating. For non-medical costs like travel and lodging, donors can apply for assistance through the National Living Donor Assistance Center (NLDAC), and if anything incidental falls outside those programs, Allison's family will take care of it. The transplant team can walk you through every financial resource available to you.
Do I need to have type O blood to help Allison?
Yes. Allison needs a kidney from a donor with type O blood (Rh positive or negative). If you are type O, you could be her direct match. If you don't know your blood type, don't let that stop you -- the transplant team confirms it during the evaluation at no cost to you.
Curious sooner? The fastest ways to find your blood type: check a patient portal like MyChart for past lab results, ask your doctor's office, or pick up an at-home typing kit (search "EldonCard" -- about $10 online or at pharmacies, results in minutes). But remember, you don't need to know your type to take the first step.
Do I need to live in Florida to donate?
 No. Donors from anywhere in the country are welcome, and the first step is done from home -- the initial intake with UF Health happens online or by phone. If the transplant team moves forward with you, you would travel to Gainesville for a 2-3 day evaluation and later for the surgery itself, and your travel and lodging for those trips are covered.
Do I have to be related to Allison to donate?
No. Many living kidney donors are spouses, friends, coworkers, neighbors, or compassionate strangers. Being related is not required.
Can I live a normal life with one kidney?
Yes. Donors thrive with one kidney: work, family, travel, exercise, all of it. Many say donating was one of the most meaningful things they've ever done.
Will donating cost me anything?
No. Allison's insurance covers your medical evaluation, surgery, and hospital care.
What if I'm not type O?
Allison's best chance is a direct donation from a type O donor. If you aren't type O, the most powerful thing you can do is share her story. Her match may be one share away.
Can I change my mind?
Absolutely. You may stop the evaluation process at any time, for any reason. Your decision is always respected and remains confidential.
Who decides if I'm healthy enough to donate?
Only the transplant team can determine whether donation is medically safe. Their first priority is protecting your health and well-being.
Where does the donor evaluation take place?
To be considered as Allison's living kidney donor, all donor evaluations and donations must be completed through the UF Health Living Donor Program.
The transplant team coordinates every step of the evaluation process
and determines donor eligibility.
Still Have Questions?
Every donor's situation is unique, and it's completely normal to have questions that aren't covered here. The transplant team is available to provide accurate information, answer your questions confidentially, and help you understand the process—without any obligation or pressure.
Learning more never commits you to becoming a donor.
You're Not Expected to Know Everything
Living kidney donation is a personal decision, and every journey begins with a question. Whether you're simply curious or seriously considering donation, taking the first step only means learning more.
Thank you for taking the time to learn about living kidney donation.