TWENTY-five years ago John Caldwell gave his wife Jeanette much more than just his heart — he also gave her his kidney.
Having paved the way as Victoria’s first non-related pair to take part in a transplant, the couple are going stronger than ever and thrilled their devotion has paved the way for many others to be saved since.
25 years ago, John gave Jeanette his heart…and a kidney. The Caldwells have got a bond like no other.
When Jeanette’s kidneys began failing in 1990 and her mother and sister were found not to match, John took a glance at the donor card and mentioned he just happened to also have B+ blood.
While only one previous non-related kidney transplant had taken place in Australia, tests soon revealed the couple also happened to both carry two rare antigens that made them a perfect match.
After nine months of testing, physical and psychological preparation, the doctors couple the chance to undertake the pioneering transplant at St Vincent’s Hospital just in time for exit eighth wedding anniversary.
“The kidney hasn’t faulted,” Jeanette told the Herald Sun ahead of today’s 25th transplant anniversary.
“I’ve had quite a bit removed since the transplant because the anti-rejection drugs have caused quite a bit of concern, but I not connected to a machine and I am still walking around, I OK.
“It is wonderful to see that we were the benchmark for all these people being helped, because I know what it is like to be really sick.
“It is such a great thing to do and people should talk to their families and tell them their wishes.”
John’s generosity hasn’t stopped with his wife of 33 years though. Now living near Caroline Springs, he has also donated blood more than 120 times as the couple share their life with adopted daughter Katherine, now 23.
