A man who holds the world record for the longest time on dialysis celebrated his award with the people who have supported him through the years.
Mahesh Mehta, 61, from Stanmore, was awarded the Guinness World Record for the longest time on kidney dialysis last year, now 43 years and counting.
On May 11, an event was organised by staff at Northwick Park Hospital to mark his unique life experience.
Led by Dr Neill Duncan, consultant nephrologist, head nurse Claire Edwards and senior nurse Debbie Haynes, the evening recognised those who have been a part of Mahesh’s medical journey.
Mahesh discovered his record just before Christmas 2017 after he and his family gathered evidence of his medical records throughout the years and sent them to the world record organisation.
His Guinness World Record was on display with photo boards and memories over the years.
Mahesh recounted his story with good humour, recalling the highs and lows and thanking those who had supported him, including his 82-year-old mother, Bhanumati Mehta, who cares for him full-time.
Mahesh used the occasion to raise awareness of the importance of organ donation so future kidney patients have a greater chance of finding a match.
Mahesh started using dialysis when his kidneys failed at 18.
He had two failed kidney transplants, one in 1979 and one in 1990, and was on home dialysis before and after the operations at St Mary’s Hospital.
During the event, Mahesh and his guests were treated to a specially written song by music therapist David Thorpe.
