Exeter City midfielder Kevin McDonald has expressed his heartfelt gratitude to his older brother Fraser McDonald after receiving a life-saving kidney transplant, calling it “a gift I can never repay.” The former Scotland international described the support and sacrifice of his brother as “unbelievable” and reflected on how it allowed him to continue his professional football career.
“There are no words in this world to describe how grateful I am for this unbelievable gesture,” McDonald wrote on social media. “You have given me a gift that I can never repay. I am forever thankful, I love you.”
A Life-Saving Kidney Donation
McDonald, 37, was diagnosed with IgA nephropathy, an autoimmune disease that attacks the kidneys, after a medical at Burnley in 2008. He managed the condition for years, enjoying a successful career that included 41 Premier League appearances, five caps for Scotland, and multiple promotions with Burnley, Wolves, and Fulham.
However, by 2021, McDonald’s condition had deteriorated: he was left with only one functioning kidney at 10% capacity, forcing the need for urgent transplantation. Fraser, a firefighter living in Carnoustie, Scotland, stepped forward as an ideal donor, allowing Kevin to undergo a successful operation at Guy’s Hospital, London.
“I remember thinking: ‘let’s do this, I need to protect my younger brother,’” Fraser McDonald said.
The operation was challenging, with Kevin experiencing a significant rejection episode that required eight hours a day on a drip. He was discharged after 18 days but faced additional challenges, including the birth of his first child, Layla, and being released by Fulham.
McDonald’s Return to Football
Despite these obstacles, McDonald made a remarkable comeback. After recovering, he signed with Dundee United before joining Exeter City in 2023. The midfielder has since become a mentor to younger players while continuing to feature on the pitch.
This weekend, McDonald hopes to play in Exeter City’s FA Cup third-round tie against Manchester City at the Etihad Stadium, where his brother Fraser will be among 7,800 travelling fans.
“Every single time he gets to go out on the pitch, it’s about making memories. After the operation, everything else is a bonus,” Fraser said.
McDonald described the experience of playing professional football with his brother’s kidney as “mad, a bit mental” but feels blessed to have such a supportive sibling.
Career Highlights and Legacy
- Premier League Career: 26 appearances for Burnley in 2009–10, scoring against Manchester City in a 3-3 draw at the Etihad.
- International Career: Five appearances for Scotland in 2018.
- Promotions: Burnley (2009), Wolves (2014), Fulham (2018, 2020).
- Exeter City: 11 League One appearances this season, all as a substitute.
During his hospital recovery, McDonald received widespread support from fans and former teammates, including Jose Mourinho, who sent him a personal message calling him “big boy McDonald from Fulham” and encouraging him to overcome his medical challenges.
Family and Brotherly Bond
Kevin and Fraser McDonald grew up in Carnoustie, Scotland, sharing a deep passion for football. Fraser recalls the childhood rivalry on the pitch:
“I’d try to tease him in front of his mates and he would batter me. He was more technical, and I was the physical one running around tackling people. We’ve always been close.”
Fraser’s kidney donation has strengthened their bond further, allowing Kevin to continue pursuing his footballing dreams and making cherished memories on the field.
Upcoming FA Cup Tie
Kevin McDonald will aim to feature against Manchester City despite nursing a minor strain. The Etihad holds fond memories for the midfielder, who scored in a 3-3 draw there with Burnley in 2009. Regardless of his playing time, the brothers are determined to enjoy the day together and celebrate their unique bond.
“I’ll imagine we’ll meet up for a beer after the game,” McDonald joked. “After all, it’s the least I can do after my big brother gifted me a kidney.”
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