Newham pupil returns to school after teacher kidney donation

A teacher from east London, who donated a kidney to a seriously ill pupil at his school, has said it was all worth it to see her back in class.

Ray Coe, who works at Royal Docks Community School in Newham, helped 13-year-old Alya Ahmed Ali after she suffered renal failure.

Mr Coe said: "The best thing is the difference it has made in Alya."

Alya said that since the operation she has been able to eat and drink and is much better.

'Never any doubt'

The operation took place on 18 February and since then Alya has returned to school and takes medicine daily.

Mr Coe, who has known Alya for three years, said the decision to donate his organ was an easy one.

"I had two kidneys, I only need one to live," the teacher said.

"I'm going to be in a bit of pain for a few months, but after a few months I won't notice any difference, but she will, so there was never any doubt."

The special needs co-ordinator said Alya was unhappy, constantly tired and having to make regular trips to hospital before the operation.

Alya Ahmed Ali wants to work in the medical profession after her treatment

"There's always something you can do," he said.

"It surprised me that there is a big thing over doing the kidney. People give up time, money a lot of themselves to others. Mine was simple - I had a spare kidney, it was a match, take it."

Alya said that she now wants to work at Great Ormond Street Hospital, in central London, where she was treated.

Mr Coe's daughter Abi said: "I know it is such a big thing, but I wasn't surprised as it is Dad.

"He does that kind of thing, he just goes full on into everything he does, so I'm really proud of him."