Selena Gomez Kidney transplant
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Selena Gomez Kidney Transplant

Selena Gomez’s kidney transplant is one of the most talked-about medical stories in recent years. The world-famous singer and actress underwent the life-saving procedure in 2017 due to complications from lupus, an autoimmune disease. Her best friend, actress Francia Raisa, stepped forward as the donor, highlighting the power of friendship and selflessness. Selena’s journey has inspired millions, shedding light on lupus, kidney transplants, and life after surgery. If you’re curious about why Selena Gomez needed a kidney transplant, her recovery journey, or how medical tourism can help people access life-saving care, this article has you covered. 

Selena Gomez kidney transplant
Picture courtesy: Free Malaysia Today

Why Did Selena Gomez Need a Kidney Transplant?

In 2015, Selena Gomez was diagnosed with lupus, a chronic autoimmune disease that attacks various organs, including the kidneys. In Selena’s case, lupus caused lupus nephritis, a severe condition where the immune system damages the kidneys. According to studies (1), lupus nephritis affects up to 60% of people with lupus erythematosus (SLE).

By 2017, Selena’s condition had worsened, and her kidneys could no longer function properly. A kidney transplant became her only option for survival. This is a common scenario for lupus patients with severe kidney damage, as transplants often offer better outcomes compared to dialysis.

Selena Gomez’s Kidney Transplant Surgery

Selena Gomez underwent a kidney transplant in the summer of 2017. After discovering she was a match, her best friend, Francia Raisa, volunteered to donate her kidney. The procedure was carried out in Los Angeles, and both women recovered under close medical supervision.

The surgery wasn’t without complications. Selena later revealed she had to undergo emergency surgery after an artery in her transplanted kidney ruptured. Surgeons performed a vein graft from her leg to stabilize her condition. Despite the challenges, Selena described the experience as life-changing and said she was incredibly grateful for Francia’s selflessness.

Life After the Kidney Transplant

Selena Gomez’s kidney transplant allowed her to regain her health, but it also came with challenges. She had to take immunosuppressant medications to prevent her body from rejecting the new kidney. These medications come with side effects, including an increased risk of infections and weight gain.

Despite these hurdles, Selena has used her platform to raise awareness about the effects of lupus and organ donation. She returned to music and acting, releasing chart-topping albums and starring in popular TV series. Selena’s openness about her health has inspired others to share their stories and seek help.

What is Lupus and How Does it Affect the Kidneys?

Lupus is an autoimmune disease that causes the immune system to attack healthy tissues. When lupus targets the kidneys, it can lead to lupus nephritis, causing inflammation and permanent damage. Early symptoms of lupus nephritis include:

  • Swelling in the legs and feet, the hands, face, feet, belly, or around the eyes
  • High blood pressure
  • Blood or protein in the urine
  • Fatigue and joint pain 
  • Weight changes –  weight gain or  weight loss
  • High levels of creatinine in the blood

If untreated, lupus nephritis can progress to kidney failure leading to a need for kidney transplant in severe cases. 

The Role of Francia Raisa in Selena’s Journey

Selena Gomez’s kidney transplant in 2017 brought her lifelong friendship with Francia Raisa into the spotlight. Francia selflessly donated her kidney to Selena, whose health was deteriorating due to lupus complications. When Selena’s doctors determined she needed a kidney transplant, Francia immediately offered to get tested. The process of becoming a living kidney donor involves rigorous testing to ensure compatibility and minimize risks. Selena has repeatedly expressed her deep gratitude, saying, “I will never ever, ever be more in debt to a person than Francia. The idea of someone not even second-guessing to be a donor was unbelievably overwhelming.”

Francia’s decision saved Selena’s life and brought attention to the importance of living kidney donation. According to the American Kidney Fund, living donors provide better outcomes for transplant recipients compared to deceased donors. 

Francia  Raisa and Selena Gomez kidney transplant
Screenshot from Selena Gomez’s Instagram Page  

How Long Do Kidney Transplants Last?

The longevity of a kidney transplant depends on different factors, like the health of the donor, the recipient’s adherence to medications, and lifestyle choices. On average:

  • Living donor kidneys can last 15-20 years.
  • Deceased donor kidneys can last 10-15 years.

Regular check-ups and a healthy lifestyle can extend the life of a transplanted kidney.

Can a Kidney Transplant Cure Lupus?

While a kidney transplant can save a lupus patient’s life, it doesn’t cure the underlying disease. Immunosuppressant medications help manage lupus symptoms by suppressing the overactive immune system. However, lupus can still affect other organs. That’s why ongoing medical care and lifestyle adjustments are essential.

Why Choose Medical Tourism for Kidney Transplants?

For many people, accessing a kidney transplant at home can be challenging due to long waiting lists, high costs, or lack of specialized care. Medical tourism offers an affordable and efficient solution. At Anavara, we help patients get access to world-class medical facilities abroad, ensuring access to expert surgeons and shorter waiting times.

Countries like India, Turkey, Thailand, etc., are popular for kidney transplants due to their high success rates and advanced medical infrastructure. We at Anavara ensure a seamless experience by handling everything—from finding the right hospital to coordinating travel and accommodation.

Contact Anavara for personalized consultation.

What Changes Can Someone Expect After a Kidney Transplant?

After a kidney transplant, patients often experience improved energy levels, better appetite, and relief from symptoms of kidney failure. However, there are significant lifestyle adjustments, such as:

  1. Daily Medication: Immunosuppressants are vital to prevent organ rejection and these are prescribed and taken daily.
  2. Diet Changes: Patients need a balanced diet low in salt and processed foods. It is important to maintain a healthy diet post kidney transplant.
  3. Regular Monitoring: Routine check-ups help detect and address any complications early. 
File:Kidney Transplant.png
Picture courtesy: Wikimedia Commons 

Celebrities Who Have Undergone Kidney Transplants

Selena Gomez isn’t the only celebrity to receive a kidney transplant. Other notable figures include:

  • George Lopez: The comedian received a kidney from his wife.
  • Ivan Klasnic: The Croatian international footballer received a kidney from his father two months after an unsuccessful kidney transplant from a different donor.
  • Sean Elliott: The NBA basketball star received a kidney donated by his brother.
  • Steven Cojocaru: After his diagnosis of polycystic kidney disease, the fashion critic got a kidney donated by his friend. The kidney became infected, and he had another transplant with a kidney donated by his mother later on.

These stories highlight how transplants can save lives and restore health.

Selena Gomez and Francia Raisa: Life After the Kidney Transplant

Francia kept her donation journey private for years, but in 2021, she shared her story on World Kidney Day. Posting a hospital photo, she wrote, “I think I’ve gotten to a point in my life where I feel comfortable and confident in speaking about my experience and using my platform to raise awareness for the various kidney diseases that affect our population.” Selena and Francia have since used their platforms to highlight the importance of organ donation and awareness of kidney disease.

However, their relationship hasn’t been without its challenges. In 2022, rumors of tension surfaced after Selena’s Rolling Stone interview, where she mentioned Taylor Swift as her only close famous friend. Francia reportedly commented “Interesting” on a related Instagram post, sparking speculation of a rift. Selena later addressed the matter on TikTok, saying, “Sorry I didn’t mention every person I know.”

Despite these ups and downs, Selena and Francia’s story remains a powerful testament to friendship, resilience, and the life-changing impact of organ donation. Their journey continues to inspire millions while shedding light on the importance of raising awareness for kidney health and lupus-related complications.

Why Trust Anavara for Your Kidney Transplant Needs?

If Selena Gomez’s story has inspired you or someone you know to explore kidney transplants, Anavara is here to help. We specialize in medical tourism, connecting patients with leading hospitals and specialists worldwide. With Anavara, you can expect:

  • Customized Plans: Tailored solutions based on your medical needs and budget.
  • Expert Guidance: Our team assists with hospital selection, visa processing, and post-operative care.
  • Transparency: We prioritize clear communication and fair pricing. 

At Anavara, we specialize in connecting patients with top kidney transplant centers worldwide. Whether you’re dealing with lupus or another kidney-related condition, we’ll guide you through every step—from finding the best hospitals to post-operative care.

Conclusion

Selena Gomez’s kidney transplant journey highlights the impact of lupus on kidney health and the life-saving potential of organ transplants. Her experience, from diagnosis to recovery, sheds light on the challenges and triumphs of patients facing similar conditions. Kidney transplants, like Selena’s, offer hope and a path to renewed health, but they also require expert care and long-term management.

If you or a loved one are considering a kidney transplant or exploring treatment options abroad, Anavara can guide you every step of the way. Contact us today to learn how we can connect you with world-class medical facilities and experienced specialists to ensure the best outcomes. Your health deserves the best care—start your journey with us now. 

Reference

  1. Rojas-Rivera JE, García-Carro C, Ávila AI, Espino M, Espinosa M, Fernández-Juárez G, Fulladosa X, Goicoechea M, Macía M, Morales E, Quintana LF, Praga M. Diagnosis and treatment of lupus nephritis: a summary of the Consensus Document of the Spanish Group for the Study of Glomerular Diseases (GLOSEN). Clin Kidney J. 2023 Mar 22;16(9):1384-1402. doi: 10.1093/ckj/sfad055. PMID: 37664575; PMCID: PMC10468759.
  2. Selena Gomez talks ‘overwhelming gratitude’ for Francia Raisa’s kidney. https://www.geo.tv/latest/475621-selena-gomez-talks-overwhelming-gratitude-for-francia-raisas-kidney-donation 
  3. Selena Gomez Calls Kidney Donor Francia Raisa Her ‘Best Friend’ Amid Feud Rumors | www.lovebscott.com. https://www.lovebscott.com/selena-gomez-calls-kidney-donor-francia-raisa-best-friend-amid-feud-rumors 
  4. https://ew.com/celebrity/francia-raisa-selena-gomez-rocky-friendship-not-because-of-kidney-transplant/ 

The information provided in this blog is for educational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice or legal advice. It is not intended to replace professional medical consultation, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult with a qualified healthcare provider before making any decisions regarding your health. Read more

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