Parents' kidneys to save children

Parents' kidneys to save children

Des will donate a kidney to Elizabeth

A couple are to become live kidney donors for their daughter and son - beating odds of 14 million to one against a successful match.

Des and Mary Alvey, of Mansfield, Nottinghamshire, have just learned their organs are compatible with their adult children, despite the overwhelming chance they would not be suitable.

Mr Alvey, 57, will donate one of his kidneys to 22-year-old daughter Elizabeth while Mrs Alvey, 52, will donate a kidney to 29-year-old son Peter.

Doctors say there is no genetic reason for both children to have defective kidneys - it is just bad luck.

Peter will receive a kidney from Mary

Peter Alvey had an unsuccessful transplant five years ago, but he is hopeful his body will not reject a kidney from his mother.

His sister Elizabeth said: "Before I was on dialysis, I could do whatever I wanted.

"Now if I want to go out the back... I have to take my entire stuff with me."

Mother Mary said: "I am actually a match for both of them... so it was really a surprise."

The operations are due to take place next month.