After years tethered to a dialysis machine, Jacoba “Kinnie” Steyn celebrated her first Christmas with renewed energy, a grateful heart, and a second chance at life – thanks to the gift of a life-changing kidney transplant.
South Africa (30 December 2024) – It’s the kind of story that fills you with hope, even when life throws its toughest challenges your way. Jacoba “Kinnie” Steyn’s journey from kidney failure to the joy of her first festive season post-transplant is a story of resilience, love, and gratitude.
In December 2021, Kinnie was dealt a life-altering blow. Despite a healthy lifestyle and careful management of her polycystic kidney disease, her kidneys had failed, and dialysis became her lifeline.
“It was a huge shock,” Kinnie recalls. “Even with all the precautions I took, it caught up with me. But in January 2022, I decided I would not give up. If I had to be on dialysis, I would be a fighter.”
Kinnie’s determination was matched by the unwavering support of her family and the dedicated medical teams at National Renal Care (NRC). With centres across South Africa, NRC provided Kinnie with the care and information she needed to manage her condition. Her nephrologist, Dr Hon-Chun Peter Hsu, was a constant source of encouragement.
“Dialysis is a lifeline, but a kidney transplant offers a chance to reclaim a full life,” he explains.
Kinnie faced a long waiting list for a matching donor. Her husband, Johan, was willing to donate, but medical risks made it impossible.
“It was a tough time, but we didn’t lose hope,” she says.
And then, three years later, the call came.
“Receiving that call was surreal,” Kinnie says. “I had just two hours to prepare for surgery. It felt like my second chance at life was finally here.”
The transplant, performed at Netcare Milpark Hospital, was a success, marking the beginning of a new chapter for Kinnie.
Her gratitude shines through as she speaks about her family, the donor and their family, and the dedicated healthcare professionals who supported her.
“I don’t know who the donor was, but I hope their family knows the incredible difference their decision made. This Christmas, my heart is full of gratitude. It’s also the first Christmas I don’t need dialysis – a blessing I’ll never take for granted.”
For Kinnie, life after her transplant is about the small joys she missed during her dialysis days.
“This year, I can finally eat ice cream!” she laughs. “And spending time with my grandson, who’s two years old, feels extra special now. I have energy, colour in my cheeks, and a zest for life that I never want to lose.”
Kinnie’s story has inspired others in her community, including many dialysis patients who are now considering joining the transplant waiting list. Dr Hsu highlights the life-changing impact of organ donation.
“It’s vital to discuss your wishes with your family and consider registering as an organ donor. The difference it makes is remarkable.”
As we celebrate Kinnie’s journey, her message is clear: “There is hope. I’m living proof of that. Whether you’re on dialysis or considering becoming an organ donor, know that your choices can save lives – and change them forever.”
To learn more about becoming an organ donor and potentially saving up to seven lives, visit the Organ Donor Foundation. Let’s make a difference, one life at a time.
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