An inspirational NHS worker from Teesside who gave her colleagues' son a new lease of life through living kidney donation is encouraging others to come forward as living kidney donors.
E-Rostering training and support officer, Susan Baldwin from University Hospitals Tees donated her kidney to Will Postgate after learning of his battle with a genetic condition called Alport syndrome.
After receiving the ‘life changing’ kidney transplant in 2022, Will was able to undertake everyday activities, return to work full-time and go travelling.
However, three and a half years on, the kidney is starting to fail and Will is now on dialysis and needing a new kidney.
As we enter a brand-new year, Susan is sharing her story in a bid to inspire others to give the gift of life in 2026.
Susan’s organ donation journey
The mum-of-one said: “From joining the team in 2019 Gill (Will’s mum) was very open about Will’s condition and explained that he would eventually deteriorate and need a kidney transplant.
“Hearing what her family was going through was heartbreaking. Will is only a year older than my own son and has his whole life ahead of him.
“I wasn’t already registered for organ donation but after hearing Will’s story, I knew I wanted to help.
“Finding out I was a match was a real roller coaster of emotions. The renal team at The James Cook University Hospital were amazing from start to finish. They made me aware of all options and ensured I was happy with my decision.”
Susan discovered she was a match in February 2021 but following some tests was told she would be unable to proceed.
A few months later, she returned to the renal department and was given the go ahead for her transplant on 2 February 2022.
She added: “When I was initially given the news that I had failed one of my tests, I was gutted and that was when I knew that this was the right decision for me.
Following the transplant, I was back at work after just six and a half weeks and thanks to the amazing teams at James Cook, I recovered really well.
“I am so grateful to have met Gill and to have been part of Will’s journey.”
After hearing the news that Will now needs a new kidney transplant, Susan was determined to help once again and has shared the following message with anyone thinking of signing up to the organ donation register.
“Nobody knows what is around the corner and you never know if you or a loved one will need this help.
You don’t have to be a family relation to put yourself forward – you can change a stranger’s life by registering to become a living donor today.
“If this is something you might be considering, speak to your family and friends first to let them know of your wishes. They will be the ones who can offer that much-needed support as you embark on this life-changing journey.”
Save someone’s life today
Renal nurse specialist, Joanne Ashton from University Hospitals Tees supported Susan through her organ donation journey said:
“There are over 7,000 people on the transplant waiting list who are relying on the selflessness and compassion of people like Susan to change their life.
“While many of us have two kidneys, some of us only need one to lead a healthy life.
“As we go into 2026 and everyone is thinking of ways to be healthier, I would encourage them to think about giving health to someone else, whether that be a relative, friend or even a stranger.
“Signing up to the organ donation register is quick and simple and could help save someone’s life.”
Useful contact details
- To find out more about living kidney donation, visit the Robert Dangoor Partnership website.
- To register your interest in living kidney donation, visit the NHS Blood and Transplant website.