UAE student's life is saved after mother donates her kidney to him

Umair Harleston, 19, was able to attend his high school graduation thanks to a transplant in Abu Dhabi

Umair Harleston’s life was saved when his mother, Safwa Abdul Aziz, gave him one of her kidneys. Cleveland Clinic Abu Dhabi

A young UAE man has spoken of his joy after his mother saved his life by giving him one of her kidneys.

The future looked bleak for American Umair Harleston,19, when he started to experience headaches and blurred vision.

It was not until he visited an eye surgeon, with his mother Safwa Abdul Aziz, that the extent of his problem became apparent.

Mr Harleston initially underwent treatment to reduce his blood pressure so his kidneys would recover. But it was to no avail and it soon became clear he needed urgent treatment.

Further tests revealed the high blood pressure had damaged his kidneys, their function dropping to a mere eight per cent.

After a detailed evaluation, Ms Aziz was found to be an exact organ match for her son, which meant the transplant could go ahead.

“When you get diagnosed with something like this it’s all about mindset,” he said.

“From the beginning I decided ‘this is not going to change anything in me or around me’.

“I’ve started working out at the gym and I’m back to playing basketball. Next up is university.”

Not only did Mr Harleston recover well enough to attend his graduation ceremony at the International School of Creative Science – Muwaileh, in Sharjah, he also gave a rousing speech, much to the delight of classmates and friends.

“I feel great. Before the surgery I was very lethargic. I wouldn’t want to leave my bed, I was sleeping all day, I didn’t eat,” he said.

“Immediately after the surgery, I was feeling much better, much more energetic.”

The operation, which took place at the end of May, was such a success that Mr Harleston was discharged after only six days.

“Only through his visit for eye treatment was Umair’s extreme blood pressure diagnosed,” said Dr Nizar Attallah, transplant nephrologist at Cleveland Clinic Abu Dhabi.

“Once it was discovered, his kidney disease was quite advanced, and we realised very quickly that Umair would need a kidney transplant to fully recover.”

The nature of the transplant meant Mr Harleston had to miss his final weeks at school, but he recovered well enough to attend the graduation ceremony and celebrate with classmates.

“When doctors first told me about Umair’s condition it was devastating – I was in shock,” said Ms Aziz, 45.

“I resolved then and there that I would donate one of my kidneys to Umair. I think it’s something that any mother would do if they are able. We were blessed that I was able to do this – it’s not automatic.

“I’ve met parents who weren’t so lucky. It really brings home the importance of organ donation.”