Lomu's benefactor named

The kidney which could change Jonah Lomu's life dramatically was donated by a friend, DJ Grant Keremea. It had been the wish of both Lomu and Keremea to keep the donation private.

A reporter of the Dominion Post found and revealed the donor's identity.

Keremea is a radio presenter on Wellington's 91ZM and married to Pauline Gillespie, also of the Morning Crew.

Keremea, who is 37, and Lomu had been friends for some years. Keremea is reported to have said that the decision to make the donation was simple;

"I had two kidneys and I am in great health. Jonah was not well and was in need of one. It was very simple for me."

He also said: "We are disappointed that this has become public. Its a very private pact between Jonah and me. I don't think it is for others to judge or comment on.

Jonah has been through an enormous ordeal and we just want him to be able to recuperate quietly and out of the public eye."

Both Lomu and Keremea are recuperating from their operations on 20 July. The success of the operation will not be known for some months.