Dialysis Gossip:

“Family Guy” Shares Need for Organ Donors

When my Friend sent me a text to tell me that “Family Guy” was showing about organ donation this past Sunday, I groaned.  Knowing the show can push limits, I expected it to portray the exact myths the reality work to dispel every day when people encourage individuals to register as organ, eye and tissue donors.   To my surprise: it was heartfelt, with a side of humor. 

In the episode, Peter (the father) needs a kidney transplant.  The doctor tells Peter and his family that he could have to wait months for a kidney and while he waits he has to be on dialysis three times a week.
Just like the 87,000 Americans waiting for a kidney transplant and undergoing dialysis treatments, Peter’s life changes.  He spends his time connected to a dialysis machine to stay alive, not able to skip even one session (though he tries).  Peter and his family worry about not being able to get to a dialysis center or receive a transplant before something bad happens.

Finally, Brian, the family dog, offers to give his kidneys to Peter – that’s right, both of them, which would kill Brian. While it’s not possible to transplant a dog’s kidneys to a human and doctors would NEVER remove two kidneys from a living donor, or allow someone to willingly die to donate organs – the sentiment was there.  Brian was willing to give the “Gift of Life” to Peter, selflessly.

In the end, the doctor tests himself and finds he is a match for Peter, saving everyone, and leaving me with a smile on my face.  Unfortunately, that’s not exactly real life either.  Each day, 18 Americans die waiting for a transplant that doesn’t come in time.

So take a moment to give a thoughts on this reality.  And a big thank you to Family Guy for showing the reality in a dialysis treatments and kidney illness.