Nono “Cynthia” Osuji, Ursuline class of 1999, has been fighting systematic lupus for twelve years, and has been battling end stage kidney failure. With very little time left for her kidney to function Nono asked for a kidney donation, and Ursuline classmate Megan Neitzel decided to answer the call. Megan, mother of sophomore Michael Neitzel, donated her kidney to Nono on December 6, giving Nono a second chance at life.
What is Lupus Disease?
Lupus disease is an autoimmune disease that attacks different tissue and organs in your body. Inflammation in the different cells causes the organs to fail and in the case of Nono’s lupus case, her kidneys. Lupus is difficult to diagnose because the symptoms are very similar to other diseases. However, lupus’ most prominent symptom is rashes across the body. Lupus has many causes, mostly from other viruses or certain drugs. While there is no cure for lupus right now, the symptoms can be treated. As for Nono, she needed an urgent transplant.
Nono’s Story
Visit this link to hear Nono’s call for help in getting a kidney from anyone, which Mrs. Neitzel answered.
Interview from Mrs. Neitzel
What was your relationship with your classmate at Ursuline before knowing she needed a kidney transplant, to now?
Nono and I were classmates in the class of 1999 at UA l. I would say we were friendly at Ursuline, but not really even in the same friend group. Since graduating high school, we were simply ‘friends’ on Facebook and Instagram. But, for the past 23 years, we have had no contact besides liking each other’s pictures now and then.
What was the process of knowing if you were a match for her leading up to the transplant what was your process of getting ready for surgery?
I did an online questionnaire followed by routine lab work. Once I was cleared on both of those, it turned into an eight-hour day at Baylor Hospital. This consisted of more intensive bloodwork, interviews by the surgeon, psychological team, and nursing staff, and finished with a CT scan of my kidneys.
What does it mean to both of you that your classmate got a kidney from you?
I think it shows the sisterhood of Ursuline Academy. Our school motto of Serviam touches your heart for the rest of your life. I believe that this is a perfect example! When my classmate needed a kidney to continue her life, there was not a question in my mind, that if I were a match that I would do it! It was very meant to be.
What is the recovery for you and your classmate after surgery?
We were both in the hospital for four days, and now we recover at home. I’m supposed to take it easy and not drive for a couple of weeks after the surgery. Then I can slowly but surely go back to life as normal, lifting things, working out and driving, etc.
Lastly, is there any additional information you want to add about the journey of donating one of your own kidneys?
I had never thought of being a living donor until I saw the video of Nono asking for a kidney. She had been chronically ill for 12 years with lupus nephritis, and I couldn’t imagine feeling that way. I understand that giving her one of my kidneys causes me to be uncomfortable for a couple of weeks during recovery. However, this will allow let her to live a wonderful rest of her life, making me more eager to help. Waiting for a deceased donor for a kidney can take 5-7 years and it only takes a couple of weeks to find out if you’re a match if you’re a living donor. It would help so many people be taken off the list if others inquired about being a living donor.
It’s been an amazing journey with my friend Nono! I would do it all over again being on the recovering side now. We are here in this life to help others and this is a beautiful way to do that. Jesuit’s “Men For Others” motto is heavy on my mind as well because it’s so closely related to Serviam. In the end, I believe that being part of this Ursuline/Jesuit community is absolutely incredible!
Stay tuned to The Roundup for other inspiring stories!
