A 44-year-old woman identified as Toks has opened up about her decision to donate one of her kidneys to a complete stranger in London—an act she says has not only saved a life but also left her feeling healthier and stronger than ever.
Speaking eight months after the life-changing procedure, Toks described her decision as a natural extension of a lifelong commitment to helping others.
“I always get asked why I did it,” she said. “And my answer is simple—why not?”
Toks revealed that her journey into giving started at the age of 18 when she started donating blood and volunteering with the African Caribbean Leukaemia Trust. Her involvement was inspired by a campaign to save a young leukemia patient in need of a bone marrow transplant.
“That experience shaped me,” she explained. “Giving back has always been a value I live by.”
Initially, Toks had hoped to donate her kidney to a friend but was not a compatible match. She later tried to help a young boy through a public campaign but again was unsuccessful. It was during this process that medical professionals introduced her to the idea of becoming an altruistic donor—someone who donates an organ to a stranger without expecting anything in return.
Without hesitation, she agreed.
Despite common fears surrounding organ donation, Toks says her recovery and overall health have been remarkable.
“In my 44 years, this is the fittest and strongest I’ve ever felt,” she said.
Before the surgery, she had been actively training for the London Marathon and maintained a high level of fitness. Today, although her routine has slightly changed due to relocation, she continues to stay active.
Now based in Lagos, Toks admits that the city’s heat, humidity, and safety concerns have limited her running schedule to short early morning sessions. Even so, she says her performance remains impressive for someone living with one kidney.
“I may not be at her personal best yet,” she noted, “but I feel good after every run. With consistency, I know I’ll get there.”
Toks used the opportunity—following awareness activities around World Kidney Day—to encourage others to consider acts of generosity, even if they are not ready for organ donation.
“You don’t have to donate a kidney,” she said. “Start small. Donate blood, volunteer your time. Every little counts.”
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Her story is now inspiring conversations around organ donation and the power of selfless giving, proving that sometimes, saving a life can also transform your own.