Kidney Sold

We've heard of these stories many times, we are aware that this trade actually do happen, we express strong opinions when it's brought up. But still it is different when we hear of an actual account told by someone who has been through the process - whether he be the buyer or the seller. It feels almost eerie, it puts a heavy weight on one's heart.

The 60++ wife of a businessman has been through a difficult time with her kidney problem; painful dialysis is what kept her alive. When the opportunity for a kidney transplant was presented to her by a surgeon, her family grabbed and held on to the promise of a new lease in life. The "surgical package" inclusive of the organ translated to Php1.5million (around AU$40,000). She would also need to be on medication for the rest of her remaining life.

A man in his 20's had previously approached the surgeon, offering one of his kidneys for sale. He was initially turned away for his blood type doesn't match any potential buyer. Not long after he was traced and called back, and offered a sum for the sale of his organ. He accepted. In exchange for one of his kidneys, he took home Php150,000 (approximately AU$4,000).

How do we measure life? No one can put a price to it, but in cases like this, it forces us to look at the ugly reality that money plays a huge role in preserving as well as taking away life. To the young man who had to dismember himself for a very obvious reason of financial need, I feel sorry for him. He still has many years to live and I do pray that his remaining kidney serves him well and lasts him long. If I could, I would have urged him not to sell, but what do I know of another's predicament, what right do I have to want to influence the decision of someone whose life experiences could be so different from mine. To the recipient of the organ, I wish the trade immensely increases her quality of life.

It is easy to pass judgment on both parties, what should have and should not have been. But can we really fully comprehend them for their decisions and actions? I guess not. Still, organ trade poses as an ethical and societal quagmire. In poverty-stricken countries where exploitation of those who have run out of other better options is rampant, organ trade would not be so uncommon. It is a sad fact that many lives in need have latched on their hopes of a "supposedly" better life to something that may eventually lead them to sickness and an even darker state.

Such things fill me with sadness. One can only hope that those lives affected are affected for the better. It's not always the case.