In a remarkable act of family support, Doug Backlund donated a kidney to his uncle, Dan Backlund, significantly improving Dan’s health and reinforcing their family bond. The successful transplant took place in April 2024, just before Dan was set to begin dialysis.
Transformative Journey of Donation
The Backlund family, hailing from Mitchell, South Dakota, recently shared their experience at a meeting of the Mitchell Lions Club. With a light-hearted approach, they recounted the events leading to the kidney donation, highlighting both the emotional and physical aspects of the journey.
“You want to give me a Christmas present, give me garlic-filled olives,” Dan joked, referring to his newfound cravings following the transplant. The 71-year-old had been aware of his kidney issues since he was 16, when routine tests revealed abnormal creatinine levels.
Six years ago, Dan began discussions with his healthcare provider about the possibility of a transplant. Given his good health, he became a candidate for the donor list. Meanwhile, Doug, 41, learned of his uncle’s condition and felt compelled to help. “He called and said he wanted to talk … I said, ‘Why in the hell would you give me a kidney?’” Dan recalled. Doug responded simply, “Because you’re my uncle and you need one.”
The Matching Process
Doug embarked on a series of medical evaluations, initially through video consultations with the Mayo Clinic. He underwent multiple tests, including blood work and psychological assessments, to determine if he was a suitable match. In September 2023, he received the good news that he was approved. “The likelihood for Dan and I to become a match was extremely small,” Doug noted. “It was like winning the lottery.”
The original surgery date was set for February 2024, but complications arose when doctors expressed concerns regarding Dan’s blood work. This led to a delay, causing emotional turmoil for both men as they approached the surgery day. Ultimately, when they were both cleared for the operation in April, they arrived at the hospital together and left at the same time.
Doug was eager to document the experience, insisting on capturing photos of the process. “I actually have photos of the doctor carrying the kidney on a silver platter with ice from me to Dan,” he shared, reflecting the blend of humor and gravity surrounding the donation.
According to the United Network for Organ Sharing, over 25,000 kidney transplant surgeries are performed annually in the United States, yet approximately 90,000 individuals remain on the waiting list. This stark contrast underscores the importance of organ donation.
Dan expressed profound gratitude for the gift of life from his nephew, emphasizing the close-knit nature of their family. “He fully understands how appreciative I am,” Dan said. “What do you do for a person that gives you a kidney? There’s not really much you can do.”
Both men have since made excellent recoveries, with Dan enjoying more time with his four grandchildren, a gift made possible through Doug’s selfless act. The Backlund family’s story serves as a powerful reminder of the life-changing impact of organ donation and the enduring bonds of family.
