KIDNEY disease has made Cranbourne MP Jude Perera appreciate that family comes first.
Mr Perera, 55, received a kidney from his cousin Lalitha when he underwent surgery at the Medical Centre in Clayton about four weeks ago.
As a compatible donor, Mr Perera’s cousin travelled from Sri Lanka for the transplant.
“The kindness and support of Lalitha really hits home that family comes first, second and third,” Mr Perera said.
Co-worker Sammy Argiriou said the operation went better than expected.
“Both Lalitha and Jude are recovering well,” Mr Argiriou said.
“Jude is in constant contact with his specialist and surgeons and is now on the mend. His body has taken in the donor kidney very well.”
Mr Argiriou said Mr Perera was about three weeks away from a full recovery, and looked forward to returning to his constituents.
The office had been inundated with calls of best wishes, cards, flowers, including best wishes from opposition members, Mr Argiriou said.
“He wishes to take this opportunity to thank all who have contacted his office with their kind wishes and support.”