David Wightman hopeful for kidney transplant as Tasmania leads country with donations

David Wightman was given the gift of life when his mum donated her kidney 25 years ago. His body rejected the organ last year, however his hopes for a transplant look promising.

David Wightman who is waiting for a kidney transplant. Picture: Chris Kidd

Howrah’s David Wightman was given the gift of life when his mum donated her kidney after he was diagnosed with kidney failure 25 years ago.

“It was quite an emotional experience,” he said.

“Mum said it wasn’t a decision for her. Straightaway she knew she was just going to donate.

“It’s something we acknowledge every year on the date of the transplant.”

But after his body started to reject the organ last year, the now 49-year-old is in need of a new kidney.

“I have about 10 per cent kidney function now so I need dialysis, which is an artificial kidney, otherwise I’d have a lifespan of a few weeks.

“I’m very grateful that I have dialysis to prolong my life while I’m waiting for a transplant. But it is very time consuming.

“The treatment itself is four and a half hours three times a week. But with travel time and preparation, it’s more like a whole working day.

DonateLife executive officer Davin Hibberd and David Wightman who is waiting for a kidney transplant. Picture: Chris Kidd

When his mum, Mary Wightman who is now in her mid 80s, received the news, she was devastated for her son.

“She was sad that the transplant ended but at the same time, happy that I was relatively well. I’m trying to keep as active as possible,” he said.

Currently, there are 1800 Australians waiting for an organ transplant, with an additional 14,000 people on dialysis.

While remaining healthy and active during dialysis treatment, Mr Wightman has hope he could get a transplant in the next two years.

It comes as Tasmania is leading the country with donation and consent rates because of the generosity of organ and tissue donors and their families.

In 2023, the lives of 57 Tasmanians were transformed after receiving organ donations from 21 organ donors and their families who said yes to donations in the state.

“I’m incredibly grateful to the Tasmanian donor families. It’s a source of pride for Tasmania to have such impressive figures,” Mr Wightman said.

Tasmanians can register and sign up as an organ and tissue donor at donatelife.gov.au.