Life expectancy for patients on dialysis varies greatly, but the average is five to 10 years, according to the National Kidney Foundation. Kidney transplants can improve life expectancy and quality of life, but many people who get one eventually need another. The United Network for Organ Sharing, which manages the American transplant system, says that although the need for organs still far exceeds supply, donations are at historic highs. Including those not currently eligible for surgery, more than 113,000 people are waiting for organs. The drone allows timely updates on its progress, the way you might track an approaching taxi on your phone.

Source: New York Times April 30, 2019 23:59 UTC