Sister Donates Kidney to Brother on His Birthday

Why this is here: Kim Rowe underwent a colonoscopy and mammogram to ensure donating a kidney would be safe for both her and her brother.

Kim Rowe of New York donated a kidney to her brother, Troy Rowe, at NYU Langone Health on his 49th birthday. Troy learned his kidney function was declining during a 2024 checkup and was diagnosed with end-stage kidney disease caused by hypertension in 2025. He then joined the national transplant waiting list.

Finding a compatible donor proved difficult because Troy has B positive blood, a less common type. Kim stepped forward and, after extensive medical evaluations, was confirmed as a rare and highly compatible match. The family viewed the timing of the successful February 2nd surgery as a positive sign.

Both siblings have recovered well, and Troy reports feeling like himself again. Kim says she would repeat the act without hesitation, emphasizing the strength of their lifelong bond. While the transplant has given Troy a second chance at life, doctors continue to monitor both patients long-term.