Amanda Acker, an Ottawa woman donating her kidney to her sister in Nova Scotia, has revealed the unexpected financial burden of the procedure.While Nova Scotia covers expenses for donors like travel and accommodation, it does not reimburse companions who accompany donors during recovery.

This policy gap has led Acker to reconsider her plans to stay in the province post-surgery, as she fears the cost of hiring a companion could deter potential live organ donors.The provincial health minister acknowledged differing approaches across provinces but stated resources are limited.Critics argue that the lack of companion support undermines donor advocacy and highlights systemic issues in transplant policies.

Acker's case underscores broader concerns about healthcare accessibility and the emotional toll on donors, calling for policy reforms to better support both recipients and donors in the transplantation process.