'I'm a monster for not donating my kidney to my sister - but I could die in surgery'

A woman is facing a heart-wrenching choice that could lead to tragedy for either herself or her sister , and she's taken to Reddit to seek advice. The 19-year-old's older sister has been diagnosed with end-stage kidney failure, and the family has been told by doctors that a kidney transplant is her only chance of survival.

The young woman is the only match in their family.

The siblings have always had a difficult relationship, as she shared on Reddit : "Growing up, she was often critical and dismissive of me. We've had a strained relationship for years, and our interactions are generally limited to the bare minimum."

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Complicating matters further, the 19-year-old has health concerns, which means undergoing major surgery could be risky for her. This has led to her feeling uncertain about donating her kidney to her sister.

She expressed her turmoil, saying: "When I found out I'm the only possible donor, I felt overwhelmed. I've tried talking to my family about my reservations, but they insist that I must save her because we're family."

Her sister has reacted strongly, telling her: "My sister is understandably upset and has been telling me that if I don't donate, it proves I don't care about her."

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Amidst this pressure, her family has made her feel like she would be a terrible person if she refused to donate her kidney. The Reddit user is torn, not wanting her sister to pass away but also concerned about her well-being.

In the comments, the voices of both kidney donors and recipients were heard. One commentator reassured her, saying she should only proceed if comfortable.

"Tell the transplant team you are being coerced to donate. They will then tell your family you are ineligible to donate. They will not say why because of HIPAA if you're in the States. Most countries have similar rules."

Another pointed out that health concerns might lead her doctor to advise against donation.

Meanwhile, one comment highlighted additional considerations for those in good health, mentioning potential risks associated with future pregnancies after donating a kidney.