Introduction to Living Kidney Donation

Living kidney donation is the process in which a healthy person gives one kidney to someone with kidney disease. Living donors are often family members, friends, or people who have a close personal connection to the recipient.

Often described as ‘the gift of life,’ living kidney donation can help recipients live longer and avoid dialysis. Donating a kidney is a generous and important decision. The information below explains the living donor evaluation and surgical process at UC Davis Health.