Hollywood actor Jesse Eisenberg is showing the world what true generosity looks like, as the ‘Social Network’ star revealed on Thursday’s episode of the ‘Today’ show that he will donate a kidney to a stranger in need next month.
“I’m actually donating my kidney in six weeks. I really am,” Eisenberg told hosts sounding both excited and calm. He added, “I don’t know why. I got bitten by the blood donation bug. I’m doing an altruistic donation mid-December. I’m so excited to do it.”
An altruistic donation is when someone gives a kidney or other organ or tissue to a person they do not personally know. Eisenberg explained it simply: sometimes a patient’s family member may not be a match for a transplant. But an altruistic donor like him can step in to save a life.
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“Let’s say person X needs a kidney in Kansas City, and their child or whoever was going to donate isn’t a match. But somehow I am,” he said. “That person can still get my kidney. It goes to a system where someone in need can receive it. But it only works if there is a generous donor willing to step forward.”
The actor hopes his decision will encourage more people to consider donation. “It’s essentially risk-free and so needed. I think people will realize that it’s a no-brainer if you have the time and the inclination,” he told.
Eisenberg, who is best known for his Oscar-nominated performance as Mark Zuckerberg in ‘The Social Network’, has quietly built a reputation for being thoughtful and socially conscious. But this kidney donation takes his generosity to an entirely new level.
Experts say altruistic donations can change countless lives giving patients a second chance when family matches aren’t available.