Chris’ Story

Chris’s Transplant Journey: Starting a New Life Abroad

Chris Butler-Donnelly was diagnosed with polycystic kidney disease (PKD) in 1997. After years of monitoring, it became clear that a kidney transplant would eventually be needed.

On 6 January 2014, Chris received a kidney transplant, with his wife becoming his living donor. The operation went smoothly, and Chris credits the transplant team with keeping them informed and supported throughout the process.

After spending a week in hospital, Chris was amazed by how different he felt.

“I didn’t realise how unwell I felt. I woke up like the Energiser Bunny.”

The recovery went well, and Chris was back at work around six weeks later. More than 10 years on, he continues to take his medication as prescribed and has a well-functioning transplanted kidney.

Starting a new life in France

Moving abroad had always been part of Chris and his wife’s plans for retirement. In 2020, after years of planning, they finally made the move to France.

The move was made more complicated by the COVID-19 pandemic. They sold their home in March 2020, only to find themselves unable to leave the UK because of lockdown. After 13 weeks, they were finally able to make the move in June.

For Chris, having had a transplant did not mean that moving abroad was off the cards. With some preparation and planning, he was able to establish himself within the French healthcare system. Within a few months, he had his medical card, a new GP and access to the local kidney centre for his ongoing care.

“Moving abroad after a transplant is possible. You just need to make sure you’re prepared and take an interest in your own care.”

Chris made sure he had enough medication with him during the move and kept on top of his appointments and treatment. He also found that speaking the language was a clear advantage for Chris.

Chris’s advice

Chris encourages other transplant patients who are considering a move abroad not to assume that their transplant will prevent them from doing so.

His advice is to plan ahead, make sure you have enough medication, understand your own medical history and ensure you know how and where you will access healthcare in your new country.

Most importantly, he encourages patients to be proactive.

“Make sure you keep on top of any symptoms. Don’t wait – get in touch with the hospital.”

For Chris, his transplant has given him more than the chance to improve his health. It has allowed him to continue working, enjoy life with his wife and ultimately build a new life abroad.

His experience is a reminder that a transplant does not have to limit your ambitions for the future.

“Doctors and nurses are very busy, so take an interest in your own care and follow instructions.”