The Story of Salomé

Every year, thousands of Colombians wait for a kidney transplant—a hope for life that, in many cases, is cut short due to the lack of donors. In celebration of World Kidney Day, Salomé’s story highlights the importance of organ donation and the journey of those living with kidney disease in the country.

From birth, Salomé has faced enormous challenges. She was diagnosed with a syndrome that affects the development of multiple organs, including the kidneys. At four years old, her health severely deteriorated, leading to her transfer from La Guajira to Hospital San Vicente Fundación Medellín. There, she received her first kidney transplant from a deceased donor. However, her body rejected the organ, forcing her back onto dialysis and plunging her family into renewed uncertainty.

Over time, the anxiety over the lack of a compatible organ grew. It was then that her mother, Yuly Andrea Castro Correa, made a life-changing decision: to donate one of her kidneys to her daughter. After rigorous medical testing at Hospital San Vicente Fundación Medellín, specialists confirmed their compatibility.

Thanks to the work of a multidisciplinary team of specialists, on August 11, 2022, when Salomé was eight years old, she received her second transplant—this time with her mother’s kidney. Today, both enjoy good health, and their story has become a symbol of hope for thousands of people still waiting for a similar opportunity.

Kidney diseases in children can go unnoticed; detecting them in time can make all the difference. Symptoms such as swelling in the face or legs, changes in urination, frequent urinary tract infections, or extreme fatigue can be warning signs. Consulting a specialist at any sign is key to early diagnosis and timely treatment.

Thanks to advancements in kidney transplants, more and more people are accessing this option, though demand continues to outpace the availability of organs. According to the National Health Institute, in 2021, 64.6% of transplants in the country were kidney transplants, a figure that increased to 69.07% in 2022. However, in 2023, the waiting list grew by 17%, reaching 3,328 patients. With a donation rate of just 6.4 donors per million inhabitants, Colombia faces a significant challenge to save more lives.

“The growing waiting list reflects the need to strengthen the culture of donation in the country. Although the number of transplants has increased, there are still thousands of people waiting for a chance at life. Salomé’s case reminds us that behind every statistic, there is a story of struggle, hope, and second chances,” states Dr. Sandra Milena Brand, pediatric nephrologist at Hospital Infantil San Vicente Fundación.

Living donor transplantation has become a vital solution to reduce waiting times and improve the quality of life for patients with kidney failure. This procedure is safe thanks to strict medical protocols that guarantee the donor’s health.

“At Hospital Infantil San Vicente Fundación, living donor transplantation is a process carefully coordinated by a multidisciplinary team of specialists, including nephrologists, surgeons, anesthesiologists, psychologists, and social workers. We evaluate the donor’s health before and after the intervention, ensuring they can lead a completely normal life with a single kidney. Furthermore, this type of transplant has higher success rates and better long-term outcomes for recipients,” explains Dr. Joaquín Rodelo, adult nephrologist at Hospital San Vicente Fundación Medellín.

Salomé’s transplant is a testament to the transforming power of organ donation. However, thousands of patients continue to wait for a similar opportunity. Education, awareness, and social commitment are essential to narrow the gap between the demand and availability of organs.

On World Kidney Day, the message is clear: donating is an act of love and solidarity that saves lives. Hospital San Vicente Fundación Medellín calls upon society to strengthen the culture of donation, promoting information and raising awareness about the importance of this altruistic gesture. Every potential donor represents hope for those who are still awaiting a transplant.