For two years, Rodolfo Jr Dumancas Alar managed declining kidney health with hope and determination. Today, thanks to support from Al Jalila Foundation, the 46-year-old Filipino resident is recovering from a successful kidney transplant and looking forward to a bright, healthy future with his family.
“Your Donation Saves Lives” is a life-changing program that support patients living with organ failure. It enables patients to access life-saving treatment, and access to essential care before and after transplantation and continue their journey toward better health. It reflects Dubai Health’s vision to advance health for humanity through the integration of Care, Learning, Discovery, and Giving.
A Reason to Hope
Rodolfo, a 46-year-old Filipino resident, was admitted to Rashid Hospital in 2024 after experiencing a severe spike in blood pressure. Tests revealed that he had stage four chronic kidney disease, and he was subsequently referred to Dubai Hospital for specialized care. As his kidney function continued to decline, his medical team advised him to begin regular dialysis.
During a follow-up visit, Rodolfo learned that he could apply for support through the “Your Donation Saves Lives” program. He began the comprehensive medical evaluation required for kidney transplantation and, a few months later, received the news that a compatible donor had been found.
Rodolfo said: “I will never forget the moment they told me that a compatible donor had been found. My family and I celebrated the news, and were overcome with joy. It was the news we had been waiting and hoping for.”
He added: “I extend my deepest gratitude to Al Jalila Foundation, the doctors, nurses, and the entire medical team at Dubai Hospital. I also extend my special thanks to the donor and their family, who gave me a new chance at life. I will remain forever grateful to everyone who made this new beginning possible.”
A New Chance at Life
Dr. Rishabh Kumar Jain, Consultant Transplant Nephrologist at Dubai Hospital, explained that Rodolfo’s chronic kidney disease had progressed as a result of long-standing diabetes and high blood pressure, leading to a decline in kidney function and necessitating dialysis.
He said: “Organ transplantation is generally an advanced and safe treatment option that can significantly improve the health of eligible patients with advanced organ failure. In Rodolfo’s case, the kidney transplant marked a pivotal turning point in his treatment journey. Following the procedure, which was performed in April 2026, kidney function improved significantly, and he has since made excellent progress, with noticeable improvements in his health and quality of life.”
Rodolfo’s care involved a multidisciplinary team at Dubai Hospital, that supported him throughout his treatment journey, from medical evaluation and preparation for the procedure, through the kidney transplant and recovery in hospital, to ongoing care and follow-up after discharge. He was also provided with the necessary medications to help maintain the transplanted kidney and support long-term health outcomes.
Dr. Amna Khalifa Al Hadari, Consultant and Head of the Nephrology Department at Dubai Hospital, emphasized the importance of the “Your Donation Saves Lives” program in supporting patients by covering the costs of the transplantation and associated medical care, enhancing their chances of receiving the treatment they need and supporting their recovery and improved quality of life.
She said: “The program reflects the integration of efforts with Hayat, the national organ donation and transplantation program, supporting eligible patients in accessing timely transplants and ensuring continuity of care after the procedure. Potential donors and recipients undergo comprehensive evaluations to verify their eligibility, in accordance with the highest safety and quality standards.”
To learn more, visit Guf Today
