Zahida Parveen
Zahida Parveen had just started work as a solicitor's articled clerk when she was diagnosed as having kidney disease.
But following a successful transplant Zahida, now aged 37, went to university, gained a law degree, and has now launched a project which aims to improve the health of Asian women in her local community.
"I feel that as a result of my transplant I have been given this extra chance, and I want to use it in a positive way," said Zahida, who lives in Castle Bromwich, Birmingham.
Zahida sought medical help in 1989 because of problems with her eyes. It was discovered her kidneys were not functioning properly and she eventually needed dialysis, three times a day.
In May 1991 a suitable donor kidney was found and Zahida had her transplant at Queen Elizabeth's Hospital, Birmingham.
After doing some voluntary work in her local community following her operation, she applied to the University of Central England to study law, and was accepted. She graduated with an honours degree in 1999.
She now works as a community development manager at the Anthony Road Children's Centre in Birmingham, advising on employment and training.
Zahida, a Muslim, is anxious to encourage more people from minority ethnic communities to become organ donors.
"There are different views. But people have to consider the issues, whether religious or moral, and have got to do what is right for them."
