Pretoria east father prepares for life-changing kidney transplant

A 45-year-old Pretoria east father, Hugh Kannenberg, is preparing for a life-changing kidney transplant which will take place on October 3 at Jacaranda Hospital.

Hugh’s journey began on April 4, 2023, when he was diagnosed with Polycystic Kidney Disease (PKD), a genetic condition.

“Two and a half years ago, I went for a check-up due to cramps in my calves, and the results were life-changing,” he explained.

“At the time, I thought I was perfectly healthy. I exercised regularly and worked full-time. A routine doctor’s visit revealed I only had 3% kidney function left.”

The news was devastating, and Hugh immediately had to start haemodialysis three times per week for four hours at a time.

“Dialysis is life-saving, but it means your whole life has to be planned around treatment. Still, I tried to live as normally as possible by keeping to a routine with work, family time and exercise.”

The family initially hoped that Hugh’s brother could be a donor.

They were a match, but a heart condition ruled him out.

Hugh’s father-in-law also volunteered but was disqualified due to a history of kidney stones.

“It was disheartening,” Hugh said,

“However, a close friend of mine, Francois de Jager, offered to donate his kidney. That moment left me overwhelmed with gratitude.”

He said De Jager underwent extensive tests before being approved by the transplant board in November last year.

Hugh added that because De Jager is an unrelated donor, the Department of Health also had to give the final go-ahead.

“After months of waiting, the approval came through in August.”

The surgery will be performed using advanced, minimally invasive techniques.

De Jager will be placed in isolation during his recovery, while Hugh and his family focus on a new chapter of life.

“It’s not a cure, but it’s an opportunity to live again,” he said.

“I want to make more memories, travel, and one day walk my daughter down the aisle. This transplant gives me hope to dream again.”

Hugh said he will never stop appreciating the second chance his friend has given him.

“Francois asked me not to thank him again after the first time. The only way I can honour his gift is by living every single day to the fullest.”

Hugh’s wife, Claudie, said the journey has been both challenging and humbling.

“Watching Hugh’s health decline was incredibly hard, but it also taught us to lean on each other and cherish the little moments.

When the approval finally came for De Jager to donate, I burst into tears. It was an overwhelming and extraordinary act of kindness.”

For the family, community support has been a lifeline.

Friends, neighbours, and even strangers have reached out to offer help.

Claudie added that teachers at her daughter’s school, Laerskool Elarduspark, have also shown support with words of encouragement and care.

“Support makes all the difference,” Claudie said.

“From prayers to small acts of kindness, it carried us through the toughest days.”

Both Hugh and Claudie hope his story will inspire others to consider organ donation.

“Becoming an organ donor is one of the greatest gifts you can give,” Claudie said.

“One donor can save up to seven lives. Hugh’s story shows how one person’s decision can change everything for a family.”

As the transplant date approaches, the Kannenberg family is holding onto faith and gratitude.

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