This Thing Called Life

https://www.networkforhope.org/stories-of-hope/

EP 140: "Strength in Every Generation: Orlando Brown Jr. on Family, Football, and Understanding Type 1 Diabetes"

Tue, 24 Mar 2026 05:00:00 -0400

EP 140: "Strength in Every Generation: Orlando Brown Jr. on Family, Football, and Understanding Type 1 Diabetes"

Episode Summary

Cincinnati Bengals Offensive Lineman Orlando Brown Jr. opens up about his family’s powerful story of resilience and awareness in the face of Type 1 diabetes. After losing his father to diabetic ketoacidosis and supporting his brother through the same diagnosis, Orlando has turned his personal loss into a mission for generational health.

In this episode of This Thing Called Life, Orlando discusses how going through the process of genetic testing, prioritizing dietary choices, and educating his family on the disease has shaped their understanding of health—and why awareness, prevention, and advocacy matter for every family.

Episode Highlights

Host Andi Johnson welcomes Cincinnati Bengals offensive lineman Orlando Brown Jr. for a meaningful conversation about family, football, and health advocacy.
Orlando shares his appreciation for being on the show and talks about continuing his journey with Cincinnati for two more seasons.
He explains the story behind his signature fox tail, a tradition that began in college as a good luck charm and has since become part of his identity.
Orlando reflects on his unique path to football, including how his father—former NFL player Orlando Brown Sr.—initially did not want him or his siblings to play sports because of the physical risks involved.
He shares how, despite that hesitation, his love for football continued to grow, eventually leading him to begin playing in the eighth grade.
Orlando talks about how his father later became one of his biggest supporters, helping him develop his game and encouraging his growth as an athlete.
The conversation takes a deeper turn as Orlando opens up about his father’s undiagnosed diabetes and the devastating impact it had on his family.
He discusses how cultural beliefs, distrust of the medical system, and reliance on home remedies can sometimes delay diagnosis and treatment—especially in communities where medical mistrust has been passed down over time.
Orlando also shares his family’s experience with his brother’s Type 1 diabetes diagnosis, and how that moment brought a new level of urgency and awareness to their lives.
He emphasizes the importance of early detection, prevention, and education, especially for families who may be at greater risk.
Orlando speaks candidly about the steps he now takes to protect his own health, including monitoring his body closely and making intentional lifestyle choices to avoid the same health challenges that affected his family.
He shares how supporting his brother and others living with Type 1 diabetes deepened his understanding of the daily realities of the disease.
Orlando highlights his advocacy work, including efforts to make insulin more affordable, raise awareness, and support research aimed at prevention and a cure.
He discusses participating in preventive testing and trials, using his platform to encourage others to take action before health issues become crises.
Orlando also opens up about the meaning behind several of his tattoos, including one honoring his father and another connected to his brother’s diagnosis.
He shares the story of one of his most meaningful tattoos—a portrait of his grandfather—and reflects on the powerful influence his grandfather had on his life and values.
The episode also touches on Orlando’s commitment to long-term wellness through nutrition. He explains why he hired a full-time nutritionist to help reduce inflammation, improve recovery, and better understand how food affects his body.
He talks about preventative health practices, natural remedies, and the importance of using today’s science and resources to avoid the chronic health issues many former athletes face later in life.
Orlando closes by speaking about his role on the field, his love for protecting his quarterback, and the importance of being a consistent, vocal leader for his team.

Key Takeaways

Family health history matters more than many people realize.
Orlando’s story is a powerful reminder that understanding your family’s medical history can help you make informed, life-saving decisions earlier.
Awareness and early action can change outcomes.
From genetic testing to prevention efforts, this episode underscores the importance of paying attention to warning signs and taking proactive steps before a health crisis occurs.
Personal pain can become purposeful advocacy.
Orlando has transformed his family’s loss and challenges into a mission to educate others, support research, and use his platform to drive meaningful change.

Tweetable Quotes

“My football story is really unique. My so my dad played in the NFL for 13 years, and he didn't start playing till he was in 11th grade in high school, and his biggest thing for me and my siblings were he didn't want us playing sports.”

Orlando Brown Jr.

“I would always go to the practices. I kept up with it. So I've always had a real passion for the game of football, but he would not let me play. For him, football is a dark sport in a way, you know, and I've been fortunate in my path to get here, I was drafted, and I've had better opportunities than he did.”

Orlando Brown Jr.

“Southern black culture isn't, you know, the hospitals and doctors and medicine, it's more about remedies and, you know, things like that. That was my family. Distrust of the medical system.”

Orlando Brown Jr.

“ It's so important because, you know, as you said, experiencing it firsthand. You know, I always want to make sure that somebody can learn from my mistakes and or my family's mistakes. And that's so important. It's so important to be able to get ahead of it.”

Orlando Brown Jr.

“I've spent a lot of time, I feel like all over the US. I've gone to the Senate and talked about making insulin more affordable. I've gone to different children's Mercy hospitals across the US and work with them on finding a cure. I've completed the trial net, which is the preventive version of type one, just to make sure you don't have the antibodies.“

Orlando Brown Jr.

“My nutritionist does this food test where she's able to tell you what food you can and can't eat that inflames your body.”

Orlando Brown Jr.

Resources:

https://www.networkforhope.org/stories-of-hope/

EP 139: Mes de la Salud y Concientización Renal (Kidney Health & Awareness Month)

Tue, 17 Mar 2026 05:00:00 -0400

This episode of TTCL will feature an interview with Luis Santiago from NFH on La Mega.
This monthly interview will inform the Spanish Community about Network For Hope and the incredible miracles that happen with Organ, Tissue, and Eye Donation.

Resources:
https://getoffthelist.org/
https://www.networkforhope.org/
https://www.networkforhope.org/about-us/
https://www.facebook.com/NetworkForHopeOPO
https://aopo.org/

EP 138: "A Leap Of Faith, Chelsea's Altruistic Kidney Donation Journey"

Tue, 10 Mar 2026 05:00:00 -0400

EP 138: "A Leap Of Faith, Chelsea's Altruistic Kidney Donation Journey"

Episode Summary

Chelsea McNicholas, a Hospital Partnership Liaison with Network for Hope, joins This Thing Called Life to share how a social media post and her faith led her to become an altruistic kidney donor for a Child. Chelsea recounts starting the testing process after hearing about a friend’s mother's need. Although she was not a match, it led her to another post about a child's need for a kidney, so she continued the testing. Ultimately, she was not needed because that child found a donor.

She walks us through her personal journey, the emotional and logistical realities of altruistic donation, and why community education about organ, tissue, and eye donation matters. Hear a personal, hopeful story that demystifies donation and inspires listeners to learn how they can help save lives.

Episode Highlights

Host Andi Johnson welcomes listeners and introduces guest Chelsea McNicholas, a dedicated advocate for organ donation and a valued member of the team at Network for Hope.
Chelsea shares her professional background in healthcare and explains how becoming a mother helped inspire her decision to transition into her role with Network for Hope, where she could make a meaningful impact on the lives of others.
As a Hospital Partnership Liaison, Chelsea explains that her work centers on building and maintaining strong relationships with hospital teams to ensure the organ donation process is handled with care, compassion, and efficiency.
She describes the unique dual advocacy role she plays—supporting both hospital partners and the Network for Hope team throughout the donation process to ensure every step honors the donor and their family.
Chelsea discusses her day-to-day responsibilities, which include hospital education, policy updates, compliance support, and continuous follow-up to strengthen collaboration between healthcare teams and the donation network.
The conversation highlights how strong hospital partnerships are essential to ensuring successful donation outcomes and providing families with compassionate support during difficult moments.
Chelsea shares some of the challenges of her role, particularly when unexpected issues arise within hospital systems. In those moments, creativity, adaptability, and problem-solving become essential.
She praises the leadership at Network for Hope for fostering a supportive culture that empowers team members to think innovatively and find solutions that best serve donors, recipients, and healthcare partners.
Andi and Chelsea reflect on the fulfillment that comes from working alongside passionate colleagues who are united by a shared mission to save and improve lives through donation.
The conversation also addresses the scrutiny and misinformation that can sometimes surround organ donation. Chelsea emphasizes the importance of transparency, education, and trust in maintaining strong relationships with hospitals and the public.
They discuss the important role donation ambassadors play in sharing personal stories that build understanding and confidence in the donation process.
Chelsea then shares her deeply personal journey as a living donor. Before working in the field, she had little direct connection to organ donation until she began seeing social media posts from former classmates searching for kidney donors.
Moved by their stories, Chelsea began exploring the possibility of becoming a donor herself. She describes the emotional and physical process of testing and waiting to see if she would be a match.
Faith played a central role in her decision, along with the encouragement and support she received from her family.
Chelsea recounts the powerful moment she met Reed, the young man who would ultimately receive her kidney, and learned more about the health challenges he and his family had faced due to kidney failure.
She reflects on the emotional experience of donation surgery and the immediate bond formed between her and Reed’s family.
Chelsea also discusses the recovery process for both herself and Reed, highlighting the strength, faith, and support systems that carried them through the journey.
Today, Chelsea continues to stay connected with Reed and his family, witnessing firsthand the life-changing impact of living donation.
She shares how the experience has shaped conversations with her own children, teaching them the importance of compassion, generosity, and helping others whenever possible.
The episode concludes with Andi expressing deep admiration for Chelsea’s courage, compassion, and dedication to the mission of organ donation—recognizing her as both an advocate and a source of hope for many families.

Key Takeaways

Organ Donation Is Built on Trust and Relationships
Strong partnerships between hospitals, donation organizations, and families are essential to ensuring the donation process is handled with compassion, integrity, and respect.
One Person’s Courage Can Transform Multiple Lives
Chelsea’s decision to become a living kidney donor demonstrates how a single act of generosity can profoundly impact not only a recipient but their entire family.
Personal Stories Inspire Awareness and Action
Sharing real experiences helps break through misinformation and encourages others to learn more about organ donation and consider how they might make a difference.

Tweetable Quotes

“We are the glue that holds the process together. I believe that our team is kind of a dual advocate in the donation process. “

Chelsea McNicholas

“When things go awry at a hospital, that is challenging because the work is not flawless. The work is never done, if you will. So there are always challenges that arise. “

Chelsea McNicholas

“I think it leans back into that strong relationship and strong trust. So knowing the truth right, like we know the truth right, and we have strong relationships with our hospitals to the point where they trust us. We've built that culture of trust and connection with our partners.”

Chelsea McNicholas

“So I think again, a great opportunity for me to be an advocate and to educate people in my circle, my husband, and my entire family, was incredibly supportive.”

Chelsea McNicholas

“I think when I can look back on my life, faith was the foundation through every step and every decision, maybe in the moment, not as easy to see, but now looking back, I can absolutely identify that.”

Chelsea McNicholas

“It's really wild to think that a part of me is living on and someone else, and that most days I completely forgot I even did it, because I am right back to where I was, you know, five months ago, prior to the surgery.”

Chelsea McNicholas

Resources:

https://www.networkforhope.org/stories-of-hope/

EP 137: Reborn at 51: Jamie Mahaffey’s Second Chance at Life

Fri, 27 Feb 2026 05:00:00 -0500

EP 137: Reborn at 51: Jamie Mahaffey’s Second Chance at Life

Episode Summary

What does it mean to be reborn at 51?

In this powerful episode of This Thing Called Life, heart transplant recipient Jamie Mahaffey shares his extraordinary journey of survival, resilience, and purpose. After undergoing a heart transplant, the former athlete, coach, and Athletic Director at North College Hill City Schools discovered a renewed calling to lead with greater intention. Becoming a John Maxwell Coach inspired him to launch his own company focused on helping others achieve their goals and elevate their lives.

Jamie’s story is a masterclass in perseverance, perspective, and personal leadership—proof that you don’t match the energy around you… You set the standard.

Episode Highlights

Host Andi Johnson welcomes Jamie Mahaffey and invites him to share the health crisis that changed everything.
On November 11, Jamie became lightheaded at work and was rushed to UC Hospital, where doctors discovered a serious infection in his LVAD (Left Ventricular Assist Device).
Facing two life-altering options—replace the LVAD or undergo a heart transplant at Vanderbilt University—Jamie chose the transplant after prayer, reflection, and encouragement from trusted advisors.
While driving to Vanderbilt on January 17, Jamie was shocked by his defibrillator 42 times, a harrowing moment that underscored the urgency of his condition.
Within days of being upgraded to Status Level One on the transplant list, a donor heart became available. Surgery was scheduled for January 21.
Jamie remained in a coma until January 24. When he awoke, he was reunited with his wife Robin and their children in an emotional and life-defining moment.
Robin’s meticulous advocacy and unwavering presence became a critical part of Jamie’s survival and recovery.
Jamie reflects on the deep gratitude he feels for his donor—and the profound awareness that his second chance came through another family’s loss.
A letter from the donor’s mother became a pivotal moment, inspiring Jamie to move forward boldly in launching his leadership company.
Post-transplant recovery included the unexpected amputation of his leg—an emotional and physical challenge Jamie describes as even harder than the transplant itself.
Through faith, family support, and resilience, Jamie developed a renewed vision for his life centered on impact and purpose.
He shares his journey to becoming a certified John Maxwell Coach and his vision of speaking, writing, and helping others live beyond their potential.
Jamie emphasizes living with integrity, leading intentionally, and choosing purpose over comfort.

Key Takeaways

Adversity Clarifies Purpose
Life-threatening challenges often strip away distractions and reveal what truly matters. Jamie’s second chance forced him to reevaluate his priorities and commit fully to purposeful leadership.
Leadership Starts With Personal Responsibility
You don’t match the energy around you—you set the standard. Jamie’s story demonstrates that leadership is not about position, but about the example you choose to live daily.
Gratitude Changes Everything
Understanding that his new heart came at a great cost reshaped Jamie’s perspective. Gratitude became fuel for impact, reminding him to live in a way that honors both the gift and the giver.

Tweetable Quotes

“So I had two weeks of tests. Everything you can imagine. You know dentists, too. That's another thing, if you don't take care of your teeth, that's an affection of your heart. So those appointments are important, something that I didn't do regularly.”

Jamie Mahaffey

“My defibrillator shocked me 42 times. And so the cardiologist came down, and he was like, Okay, we have to admit him. And so that's when I stayed there. And on January 18, the doctor came in that morning, and he said, You go from level three to level one a. Level one is where you need a transplant. “

Jamie Mahaffey

“I was in a coma for five days because my heart wasn't initiating with my body.”

Jamie Mahaffey

“God was giving me another opportunity to listen to him. It was a time. I mean, I was just always busy. I was a head coach and won state titles and played college ball and played overseas, and I was always moving, but I was always looking after other people as a man. We are fathers, and we take care of our house, and I was an ad, and I was a coach, I was a mentor, so I'm looking after everybody else but myself. And it was a time he was saying, it's your turn.”

Jamie Mahaffey

“I know there's a purpose for me to just keep having people to not live off their potential, but pursue their destiny. And so that's why I teach a lot of kids. A lot of people are still in life, living off potential but not pursuing their destiny. “

Jamie Mahaffey

“Maxwell certification was a stepping stone to a vision. I always heard about myself, about being a motivational speaker, about writing books, about having normal eyesight in life.”

Jamie Mahaffey

Resources:

https://www.networkforhope.org/stories-of-hope/

EP 136: El Día Nacional del Donante y la Importancia de la Familia (National Donors Day and the importance of Family)

Tue, 17 Feb 2026 05:00:00 -0500

EP135: Reflexiones de Año Nuevo (New Year's reflections)

Tue, 20 Jan 2026 05:00:00 -0500

EP 134: Honoring the Gift of Life: Erica Randall’s Journey with Network for Hope and Organ Donation

Tue, 23 Dec 2025 06:44:43 -0500

EP 134 Title: Honoring the Gift of Life: Erica Randall’s Journey with Network for Hope and Organ Donation

Episode Summary

In this heartfelt episode, Erica Randall, Community Partnership and Events Manager at Network for Hope, shares her inspiring journey in building stronger communities and advocating for organ donation. Erica opens up about her role within the organization, highlighting the rewarding experience of organizing the annual Network for Hope Community Breakfast. But the conversation takes a deeply personal turn as Erica reflects on her family’s connection to organ donation, including the passing of her cousin Jason, who became an organ donor after a tragic car accident, and her mother-in-law Gail, who gave the gift of sight through cornea donation. Erica also discusses the creation of the SODA (Student Organ Donation Advocates) chapter in Cincinnati, which has now grown to 7-8 thriving chapters, and her deep passion for honoring both donors and recipients. Tune in to hear about Erica’s mission to spread awareness, inspire others, and make a lasting impact on the lives of those touched by organ donation.

Episode Highlights

Erica Randall discusses her role at Network for Hope as the Community Partnerships and Events Manager, where she builds bridges between communities and the life-saving mission of donation.
They recently held their annual breakfast event, themed “Voices of Hope,” where speakers reflected on the joy, resilience, and positivity of children and young adults impacted by donation.
The event was visually brought to life through participants’ paintings surrounding the word hope, creating a powerful representation of lived experiences.
Andi and Erica highlight Keegan, a young boy waiting for a lung transplant whose optimism and enthusiasm inspired everyone in the room.
Erica shared the story of Jaylynn, a cornea recipient who is now thriving as a high-school senior, illustrating how donation restores independence and possibility.
Erica has spent nine years in the OPO field and is deeply committed to educating communities about how the donation process truly works.
Erica shares how the loss of her cousin Jason, who became an organ donor after a fatal car accident at 23, introduced her to the world of donation.
She reflects on more than a decade of donation support services, building meaningful relationships with donor families during their most vulnerable moments.
Erica explains why specific medical questions are asked during tissue donation, emphasizing safety, ethics, and protection for recipients.
Erica’s mother-in-law Gail was diagnosed with liver cancer yet still became a cornea donor at age 66, restoring sight to two people in Saudi Arabia.
Gail’s story highlights the importance of educating the public that certain donations are still possible—even with active cancer diagnoses.
Erica shares her work with the Student Organ Donation Advocates (SODA) chapter in Ohio, where over 550 students registered as donors.
She emphasizes how today’s teenagers are setting a powerful standard for social impact and advocacy.
Andi thanks Erica for her transparency, leadership, and dedication to sharing knowledge that empowers informed decisions about donation.

Key Takeaways

Education dispels fear. Accurate, compassionate education helps families and communities understand donation and make informed decisions rooted in truth—not misinformation.
Hope has many voices. From children waiting for transplants to recipients thriving years later, each story demonstrates the ripple effect of donation.
Legacy lives on through giving. Personal loss, like Erica’s experience with her cousin Jason, can transform grief into purpose and lifelong advocacy.

Tweetable Quotes

“So our theme is voices of hope. And we did feature children and young adults. And I liked that idea because I wanted to show people it's not just adults who go through this. It does impact, you know, children at birth, or it does impact children very young age.” - Erica Randall

“So Jalen scratched her cornea when she was two years old and had to receive a cornea transplant. She is now a senior in high school in cosmetology. I'm so proud of her, and she is a signed professional Fisher woman. Oh, my God, and to see her just thrive all because of a cornea transplant, and how her life, I mean, she could be 17 years old with no eye, or she could have no vision.” - Erical Randall

“At 23 years old, he (Jason, Erica’s cousin) became a superhero, and he was able to donate his heart, his liver, his kidneys, and he was a tissue donor. So that completely flipped our lives upside down, but introduced me to a world of donation I had no clue even existed.” - Erica Randall

“I think it's an honor to give them the chance to have that light that somebody gave me when Jason became a donor. It gave us some positivity to his death. It gave us some glimpse of hope, some light in our lives, and to give that, to pass that on to somebody else, to have that chance was a great privilege.” - Erica Randall

“She (Gail, Erica’s Mother-in-Law) became a cornea donor at the age of 66 in her corneas, or in Saudi Arabia. So two people in Saudi Arabia have the gift of sight because of her. So, again, great moment here to educate people that can be cornea donors and have active cancer.” - Erica Randall

Resources:

https://www.networkforhope.org/stories-of-hope/

EP 133: “Walking by Faith: Maria’s Story of Survival and Purpose”

Tue, 02 Dec 2025 12:00:13 -0500

Title: EP 133: “Walking by Faith: Maria’s Story of Survival and Purpose”

🎙️ Episode Summary

In this episode of This Thing Called Life, we meet Maria Valentina Almeida — a college graduate, a passionate advocate, and a woman whose faith has carried her through a lifetime of medical battles.

Born with sepsis and a rare Colecta malformation that led to kidney failure, Maria now shares her story to bring hope, dignity, and strength to others living with disabilities. Her journey is still unfolding, and she is in urgent need of a kidney donor — but her spirit remains unshakeable. This conversation shines with resilience, purpose, and the power of believing in something bigger.

✨ Episode Highlights

Maria shares her background, including her mother's history with kidney disease and transplants.
Maria's mother was diagnosed with kidney failure at 19 and underwent multiple transplants, inspiring Maria.
Maria's mother had Maria and her twin sister during her second transplant, highlighting her resilience and determination.
Maria was born in Venezuela with sepsis and underwent emergency surgery on her first day of life.
She spent 45 days in the NICU and faced alarming prognoses from doctors, but she has proven them wrong.
Maria had her kidney removed at nine years old during a surgery in the United States in 2011.
Despite her health challenges, Maria has always tried to live a normal life and take her treatments seriously.
Maria discusses the impact of her chronic illness on her life, including feeling different from her peers.
She emphasizes the importance of not seeing herself as a victim and using her challenges as a strength.
Maria shares her faith and how it has helped her through her difficult times.
She talks about the power of sharing her story and connecting with others who have similar challenges.
Maria graduated from college early due to her kidney failure symptoms and received two degrees in journalism and public health.
She also has a minor in health behavior analysis and plans to use her education to advocate for others.
Maria's faith and family support have been crucial in her journey, and she aims to continue sharing her story.
She expresses her desire to use her platform to help others who may not have the same resources or support.
Maria's twin sister has been a strong advocate for her, creating a Canva campaign and getting billboards to raise awareness.
Maria's parents have also been very supportive, attending her appointments and taking care of her.
Maria's faith and family support have helped her stay positive and hopeful through her challenges.
She shares her dreams of receiving a transplant and how it would change her life.
She encourages others to reach out for help and support, and to continue dreaming and achieving despite their challenges.
Andi Johnson concludes the podcast by thanking Maria and reminding listeners of the importance of living donation and kindness.

📝 Key Takeaways

Resilience is cultivated, not accidental. Maria’s journey — from emergency surgery at birth to kidney removal at age nine and ongoing health battles — reflects a life shaped by determination, faith, and a refusal to see herself as a victim.
Family support and advocacy can change outcomes. From her mother’s perseverance through three transplants to her sister launching awareness campaigns and her parents accompanying her to appointments, Maria’s story is a testament to the life-saving power of community.
Sharing your story can create purpose and hope. With degrees in journalism and public health, Maria is committed to helping others navigate illness and disability. By speaking boldly about her own journey — and her need for a kidney donor — she offers courage, information, and connection to others on the same path.

📢 Tweetable Quotes

“She is a third-time transplant survivor, and she's just my biggest inspiration. But something that stands out a lot about my mom is that she had my twin sister and me during her second transplant, after her second transplant had happened. It's just so motivating to see how she persevered and how she had this goal of being a mom, even despite what she went through since such a young age.”

- Maria on her Mother’s experience with Kidney Disease

“The doctors gave my parents a lot of alarming prognoses of just my future, and even told them that it would take a miracle for me to just live to make it. And if I were to make it, I would have a lot of complications. I would not be able to walk. Talk, talk, I would not be just a normal human being, and I have just proven them wrong. I am so blessed, and that just comes to show how much God loves me.”

- Maria’s first day out into the world and her first surgery

“I went through a couple of surgeries from the very beginning to correct my condition that I was initially born with, which was cloaca malformation to colorectal malformation, and my kidney was removed at nine years old when I came to the United States in 2011.”

- Maria on her surgery to remove her kidney at 9 years old

“So I was managing finishing school and symptoms and just life the last four months, five months of the year of 2024, and it was a challenge, but I made it. I walked across that stage with two degrees and a technical.”

- Maria Valentina Almeida

“Yes, I I know that I'm called to share my story, to continue to do this as a as a long term thing, as a lifelong thing, just stand and raise my voice for for my vulnerability, but also the vulnerability of others that are not able to have this platform, that are that don't know where to start, that don't have just the motivation, or don't have the support or the resources. “

- Maria Valentina Almeida

“I dream of my kidney. I have had many dreams where I am literally lying in a hospital bed waiting to go into the or and I wake up, and I say, Maybe today's it. So I'm not gonna lie. I'm very eager, and sometimes I get very desperate, but that's normal.”

- Maria Valentina Almeida

Resources:

https://www.networkforhope.org/stories-of-hope/

EP 132: Desayuno Comunitario & Experiencias de Voluntariado con Carmen Rosado (Community Breakfast & Experiences of a Volunteer with Carmen Rosado)

Tue, 18 Nov 2025 05:00:00 -0500

EP 131: “Three Hearts, One Journey: The Massie Family’s Journey with Alport Syndrome”

Tue, 11 Nov 2025 12:24:24 -0500

Title: EP 131: “Three Hearts, One Journey: The Massie Family’s Journey with Alport Syndrome”

🎙️ Episode Summary

In this episode of This Thing Called Life, we meet Katelyn Massie, whose family’s story is one of strength, resilience, and hope. Katelyn, her mother Amanda, and her brother Hunter all live with Alport Syndrome, a rare genetic condition that leads to kidney disease and, for many, the need for a transplant. Katelyn shares how her family’s challenges have turned into a powerful story of advocacy, awareness, and gratitude for the gift of life.

Katelyn has turned her personal challenges into purpose — pursuing a Master’s Degree in Bioengineering at the University of Washington and working on developing a portable dialysis device that could change the future for patients like her.

Andi Johnson introduces Katelyn Massie, the daughter of Amanda and sister of Hunter, who joins the podcast from Vanceburg, Kentucky, where she is currently receiving dialysis treatment.
Katelyn shares her background, including her Alport Syndrome diagnosis, her Master’s Degree in Bioengineering, and her innovative work on a portable dialysis device at the University of Washington — a project inspired by her own experience as a patient.
Katelyn addresses the widespread misconceptions surrounding organ donation, encouraging listeners to research thoroughly and rely on credible medical sources instead of fear-based narratives.
She clarifies that being a registered organ donor does not affect the quality of medical care you receive — an important myth to dispel.
Katelyn emphasizes making informed decisions based on facts and personal conviction rather than hearsay or outdated assumptions.
Andi inquires about the process of learning more about living kidney donation and how individuals can register as donors.
Katelyn highlights the UK Living Donor Clinic, sharing her positive experience and the inspiring number of people willing to get tested for potential matches.
She mentions that her father was told he didn’t need to get tested because there were already so many individuals in the pipeline — a beautiful testament to generosity in action.
Katelyn encourages others to take initiative, reminding listeners that every potential donor adds hope for someone waiting.
When asked about her daily life, Katelyn opens up about her family’s shared journey, explaining the emotional and physical toll of living with kidney disease.
She shares that she and her brother attend dialysis together, which helps them both find comfort and strength in shared understanding.
Katelyn recounts emergencies when her low hemoglobin levels required hospitalization — moments where her brother’s presence made all the difference.
Andi expresses deep gratitude to Katelyn for her courage and transparency, wishing her family continued strength and healing as they wait for transplants.
The episode closes with a heartfelt reminder from Andi: over 100,000 people are currently waiting for a life-saving transplant — 90,000 of whom need kidneys.
Listeners are encouraged to register as organ donors or consider living donation through trusted platforms such as RegisterMe.org and Network for Hope.

📝 Key Takeaways

Knowledge Over Fear: Katelyn reminds listeners that misinformation is one of the biggest barriers to organ donation. By turning to medical and scholarly resources, individuals can make empowered, informed decisions rooted in truth rather than fear.
The Power of Family Support: Facing dialysis alongside her brother Hunter, Katelyn’s story highlights how shared strength and empathy within families can turn even the hardest challenges into moments of connection and resilience.
Innovation and Hope for the Future: Through her studies in bioengineering and her work on a portable dialysis device, Katelyn represents the next generation of changemakers — patients turned innovators who are redefining what’s possible for kidney health.

📢 Tweetable Quotes

“I think that there are a lot of misconceptions surrounding organ donation and that that gives people a lot of hesitation, but I would just encourage people to do your research and really look into it and look at it from scholarly sources, rather than, like, fear mongering.”

- Katelyn Massie

“And I've actually had really great success with that, because UK has told me that they just have a massive list of people willing to get tested to the point where they haven't even, like they contacted my dad when he was willing to get tested and told him, like, we have plenty of people in the pipeline. We don't need you, and they haven't called him back to ask him to get tested.”

- Katelyn Massie

“It's stressful for sure, because I'm worried about myself, but then I also have to worry about Hunter and mom as well.”

- Katelyn Massie

“It gives me a lot of anxiety just worrying about them all the time, but at the same time, it's kind of nice to have people that understand what I'm going through and that I can relate to, like Hunter and I go to dialysis together.”

- Katelyn Massie

Resources:

https://www.networkforhope.org/stories-of-hope/

EP 130: “The Ripple Effect: Maggie Luken’s Journey of Loss, Love, and Life”

Tue, 04 Nov 2025 05:00:00 -0500

Title: “The Ripple Effect: Maggie Luken’s Journey of Loss, Love, and Life”

🎙️ Episode Summary

In this deeply moving episode of This Thing Called Life, host Andi Johnson welcomes Maggie Luken, whose story reminds us that even in profound loss, love can create ripples of life.

When tragedy struck, Maggie Luken chose compassion. In this moving interview, she reflects on a year marked by major back surgery, the loss of two brothers, and the life-giving decision that followed. Inspired by her brother Brendon’s organ donation, Maggie became a living donor herself. Now an Ambassador for donation, Maggie's story is a testament to resilience, purpose, and how one act of kindness can create ripples of life.

✨ Episode Highlights

Andi Johnson welcomes Maggie Luken, setting the stage for a story of resilience and hope.
Maggie opens up about her lifelong battle with back issues due to a genetic defect — a condition that began affecting her as early as age 12.
Over time, severe back pain led her to use a wheelchair and undergo extensive physical therapy.
After having two children, Maggie’s condition worsened, leaving her unable to stand for more than five minutes and suffering intense nerve pain.
She describes her bilateral spinal fusion and discectomy — a major surgery that replaced damaged discs with metal rods and screws. Maggie recalls the painful recovery but also the immediate relief she felt when the nerve pain vanished.
Now, 2.5 years post-surgery, Maggie shares her gratitude for a full recovery and no longer needing medical visits for her back.
Tragedy struck when her 24-year-old brother Brendan suffered a heart attack while at the gym. Maggie recounts the devastating details, including a delay in help and the family’s desperate hope as Brendan was placed on ECMO life support for a week.
Despite their faith in a miracle, scans revealed irreversible brain damage, forcing the family to face the unimaginable.
Maggie shares the heartfelt decision to donate Brendan’s organs, knowing his legacy would live on through others.
She finds comfort in knowing that Brendan’s heart, kidneys, and eyes gave life and sight to multiple people.
Reflecting on his legacy, Maggie describes Brendan as a source of inspiration, pushing her to continue his story through advocacy.
She also reveals the unexpected loss of her second brother, Colin, just months later, to an accidental overdose — a loss that deepened her purpose in helping others.
Maggie shares how she was inspired by a podcast episode and a local kidney recipient’s story to become a living donor herself.
With the unwavering support of her husband and community, she embarked on the journey to donate a kidney — describing the procedure as less invasive than her back surgery and the recovery as surprisingly manageable.
Maggie speaks candidly about her emotional healing after the surgery and how the experience became part of her process of grief and renewal.
She encourages listeners to consider organ and living donation, reminding them that it’s not only life-changing for the recipient but healing for the donor as well.
Maggie shares how her advocacy inspired Carrie, a local dietitian, to donate her own kidney to a stranger — a ripple effect that continues to grow.
She closes by reflecting on her brothers’ legacies, her mission to honor them, and the hope that others will be moved to give life through organ donation.
Andi Johnson thanks Maggie for her openness and courage, closing with a message of gratitude for those who turn tragedy into purpose.

📝 Key Takeaways

Turning Pain into Purpose: Maggie’s story shows how personal tragedy can become a powerful catalyst for compassion. Her choice to become a living donor transformed grief into hope — not only for herself but for others in need.
The Ripple Effect of Donation: From Brendan’s selfless organ donation to Maggie’s own kidney gift — and now Carrie’s — one act of kindness can inspire a chain of generosity that touches countless lives.
Healing Through Advocacy: Maggie’s work as an organ donation ambassador highlights how sharing personal stories can encourage others to register, donate, and change lives while preserving the memory of loved ones.

📢 Tweetable Quotes

“After having two children, you carry two babies and your back. It really does a number on it, right? So, yeah. By the end of 2022, I couldn't stand for more than five minutes at a time. My nerve was completely pinched. I had been told I wasn't allowed to pick up my kids anymore.”

- Maggie Luken

“And so I have like, two metal rods and four screws and a fake disc in my back now, yeah, but I feel great. It's, I mean, as soon as I woke up from surgery, the nerve pain was gone. It's, you know, it's awful their recovery. I'm not gonna lie, it's the hardest thing physically that I've ever gone through.”

- Maggie Luken

“We found out that he had a heart attack at the gym where he worked at Planet Fitness, and nobody tried to help him. They just walked around him for almost five minutes before they tried to help or called 911, and so by the time the paramedics got there, they were able to restart his heart, but it had been 40 minutes…”

- Maggie Luken on her brother, Brendan’s heart attack

“It's really crazy to think that you know somebody out there is literally seeing the world through my brother's eyes. Somebody's heart is pumping blood through his heart valves. You know, there's somebody who has a personal liver now, and people have kidneys, and we got a message from someone who received like tissue and they were able to heal from something that they had been struggling with.”

- Maggie Luken

“So the actual incisions for where it's done are very small, and then they do take it out in one piece, and so you have the larger, like, it's basically a C-section score. So I kind of just felt like I didn't have a C-section with either of my children, but I kind of just felt like I had to chill again. Like, after you have a baby, you're just taking it easy.”

- Maggie Luken on her surgery

Resources:

https://www.networkforhope.org/stories-of-hope/

EP 129: Actividades para la Comunidad (Community Activities)

Tue, 21 Oct 2025 05:00:00 -0400

EP 128: "Meeting My Kidney Sister: Sarah Green Moore’s Story of Healing and Purpose"

Tue, 14 Oct 2025 05:00:00 -0400

Title: "Meeting My Kidney Sister: Sarah Green-Moore’s Story of Healing and Purpose"

🎙️ Episode Summary

In this heartfelt episode of This Thing Called Life, we sit down with Sarah Green-Moore, a kidney transplant recipient whose story is as inspiring as it is extraordinary. Sarah shares the unforgettable moment she met her “kidney sister” — the woman receiving the other kidney from the same donor — in the hospital lobby just before their transplants. Now, thriving with a new lease on life, Sarah is paying it forward by caring for her 8-year-old daughter who needed her when she was least expecting it. This is a moving story of second chances, sisterhood, and the power of showing up when it matters most.

----more----

✨ Episode Highlights

Sarah Green-Moore shares her story, beginning in 2015 when her primary physician referred her to a specialist for kidney issues, and a moment that would soon change her life.

Ignoring the warning signs, Sarah initially brushed off her doctor’s advice, believing she was healthy and active. But her mother’s illness with multiple myeloma in 2012 became a turning point that reminded her of the fragility of life.

Determined to face her health head-on, she decided to take responsibility for her well-being to avoid burdening her siblings, who relied on her strength and support.

When her specialist advised starting dialysis, Sarah resisted the idea, struggling to reconcile how someone who “felt fine” could be so sick.

The emotional weight of the diagnosis sank in, and she had to come to terms with the reality of living with kidney disease.

Sarah shared the difficult news with her oldest brother, whose heartbreak reflected the entire family’s shock and concern.

In seeking answers, Sarah researched her family’s health history, only to find that chronic kidney disease (CKD) didn’t run in the family — making her condition even more puzzling.

She decided to break the news to her family through a picnic, a setting filled with love yet marked by emotional reactions and tears.

Visiting dialysis centers opened Sarah’s eyes to the reality of the journey ahead, stirring both fear and uncertainty, yet also courage.

She remained steadfast in her resolve to maintain her independence and dignity, refusing to let illness define her.

With family encouragement, Sarah focused on getting healthier and being placed on the transplant waiting list.

In 2017, she received the call that changed everything — her time for a transplant had come.

In an extraordinary twist, Sarah met another patient in the hospital and soon discovered they were both receiving kidneys from the same donor, forming an unbreakable bond as the “kidney sisters.”

Eight years later, Sarah reflects on life post-transplant and her journey as a mother, a caretaker, and an advocate for others walking similar paths.

Her “kidney sister” became her accountability partner and emotional anchor, proving how shared experiences can create lasting friendships.

Sarah believes in the power of speaking openly about her experience to encourage others to face their health fears and seek help early.

She and Andi discuss the need to educate the public about organ donation, dispelling misconceptions and promoting understanding.

They highlight the benefits of the Paired Kidney Exchange Program, which helps match living donors and recipients more efficiently.

Sarah closes by encouraging everyone to consider organ donation and embrace the opportunity to give life to others.

----more----

📝 Key Takeaways

Listening to your body can save your life. Sarah’s story reminds us that even when we feel “fine,” it’s crucial to pay attention to medical advice and early warning signs — prevention and awareness can make all the difference.
Connection brings healing. Meeting her “kidney sister” turned a medical journey into a story of shared hope, mutual strength, and lasting friendship — showing how donation can create unexpected bonds.
Advocacy through authenticity. By sharing her experiences openly, Sarah helps others overcome fear, understand the truth about kidney disease, and see organ donation as an act of compassion and courage.

----more----

📢 Tweetable Quotes

“And so when I decided to listen, I went to the specialist, and the specialist was like, It's time for you to do dialysis. I'm looking at him like, ‘You're whack’, I'm not having any symptoms, and I've always dealt with being anemic from when I started my menstrual cycle, so that was nothing new to me.”

Sarah Green-Moore on being recommended for dialysis

“ I had to tell him the only thing that's wrong with your sister. She needs a kidney. That's the only thing that's wrong with me.”

Sarah Green-Moore on sharing the news with family

“I almost started wanting to fight again, especially when it was time for me to get my access, I was like. I could not fathom being connected to a machine that I knew would save my life.”

Sarah Green-Moore on starting dialysis

“This doesn't define me. This doesn't say who I am, but I have to be honest about going through that journey and visiting the different centers and things that scared the fool out of me.”

Sarah Green-Moore

“To be able to have somebody where I could just be there for each other, just hold her hand, and she can hold my hand.”

Sarah Green-Moore on having her kidney sister

Resources:

https://www.networkforhope.org/stories-of-hope/

EP 127: "Legacy in Life and Loss: Adria Johnson on Her Son’s Gift of Hope"

Tue, 30 Sep 2025 06:54:12 -0400

Title: "Legacy in Life and Loss: Adria Johnson on Her Son’s Gift of Hope"

🎙️ Episode Summary

In this powerful and emotional episode of This Thing Called Life, we sit down with Adria Johnson, President and CEO of Metro United Way in Louisville, Kentucky, as she shares the deeply personal story of losing her son, KJ, in a tragic car accident. KJ made the selfless decision to become an organ donor — a choice that gave the gift of life to others even in his passing.

Joined by Barry Massa, CEO for Network for Hope, this episode also sheds light on the critical difference between DCD (Donation after Circulatory Death) and brain death, offering clarity and compassion for families navigating organ donation.

Together, Adria and Barry bring heart, hope, and understanding to a conversation that touches every aspect of life, love, and legacy.

✨ Episode Highlights

Guests introduced: Host Andi Johnson welcomes Barry Massa and Adria Johnson, who share their experiences with organ donation.
Adria’s story: She recounts losing her son, KJ, in a car accident and the remarkable impact of his donation — his heart saved a 36-year-old man, and his kidneys gave two mothers renewed life.
Barry’s perspective: He reflects on how KJ’s story fuels his passion for the mission of organ donation and inspires his work every day.
Support from COTA: Adria and her family received compassionate care from the Children’s Organ Transplant Association, which walked alongside them during the most difficult moments.
KJ’s decision: Paperwork revealed that at just 18 years old, KJ had already elected to be an organ donor, a decision that turned his loss into hope for others.
The Honor Walk: KJ’s hospital held a moving ceremony to honor his life and gift of donation, a moment that deeply touched his family.
Hospital partnerships: Barry stresses the critical role of strong hospital relationships in ensuring organ donation success.
Understanding donation: The episode clearly explains the difference between brain death and DCD. Brain death occurs when all brain function ceases, while DCD is donation after the heart stops — both allowing for organ donation under specific conditions.
Family acceptance: Adria shares how she fully supported her son’s decision, finding comfort in his selflessness.
Aftercare support: Network for Hope’s Aftercare department provided Adria’s family with ongoing emotional and memorial support, helping them through grief and connection with recipients.
Organizational challenges: Barry speaks about recent challenges in the field, including investigations, corrective action plans, and congressional hearings around organ procurement modernization.
Medical recommendations: HRSA guidance calls for neuro exams every 12 hours for DCD cases to ensure accurate assessment.

📝 Key Takeaways

The power of one decision: At only 18 years old, KJ’s choice to register as an organ donor transformed his tragic passing into a legacy of life, saving and improving the lives of multiple recipients.
Compassion and support matter: From COTA’s care to Network for Hope’s Aftercare team, Adria’s family experienced how vital emotional and practical support is for donor families navigating both loss and healing.
Education brings clarity and courage: Understanding the differences between brain death and DCD helps families make informed decisions, reduces fear, and fosters greater trust in the organ donation process.

📢 Tweetable Quotes

“You know, it was hard enough to prepare to say goodbye to my son and know that KJ would no longer be here, but he had elected at the age of 18 to be an organ donor, unbeknownst to us, and certainly, I consider him probably the premier selfless hero that I will know in my lifetime because of that gift.”

- Adria Johnson

“You know, it really takes a lot of dedication, and if you're just in it for a job, you'll never make it. You have to be passionate about the mission.”

- Barry Massa

“And when that decision was made, what I really appreciated was, again, just the tenderness, the comprehensive way in which they prepared us for all of it, you know, just what needed to take place for the duration of K J's hospital stay.”

- Adria Johnson

“And very early on in when I became Executive Director of Life Center, before becoming CEO of Network for Hope, I felt like relationships with their hospitals were going to be the key for our success to honor those gifts of donation.”

- Barry Massa

“ I didn't have any reservations, like I said, from the minute all of this started for us, and even just in being made aware that you know your son did elect to be an organ donor, and if you know that is something you all want to pursue.”

- Adria Johnson

“I mean, from the minute we had to get through all of that painful episode, and you're now kind of adjusting to life without this person, it was. I mean, just consistent check-ins:

‘How is your family doing?’ I mean, even the you know, helping us in terms of, ‘do you want to try and have some connectivity with the folks that have been the recipients of his gifts?’ So there's all of that also added an element of support. “

- Adria Johnson on receiving support from the AfterCare Team

Resources:

https://www.networkforhope.org/stories-of-hope/

EP 126: Twice Gifted: Beth Otto’s Journey As a 2 Time Kidney Recipient

Tue, 16 Sep 2025 13:25:56 -0400

Title: Twice Gifted: Beth Otto’s Journey As a 2 Time Kidney Recipient

🎙️ Episode Summary

In today’s episode of This Thing Called Life, host Andi Johnson interviews Beth Otto. At just 25 years old, Beth Otto received her first life-saving kidney transplant from a deceased donor. Years later, a second transplant — this time from a selfless friend — gave her a renewed lease on life. In this inspiring episode, Beth opens up about her journey as a two-time kidney recipient and how those experiences shaped her purpose. Motivated by the care she received, Beth became a nurse, dedicating her life to helping others. This episode is a powerful reminder of the impact of organ donation and the resilience of the human spirit.

✨ Episode Highlights

Beth’s Journey as Patient and Nurse: Beth Otto, a two-time kidney transplant recipient, shares her dual perspective as both a nurse and a patient.
35 Years in Healthcare: Beth has worked as a nurse for over three decades, bringing compassion and purpose to every role she has held.
Symptoms Overlooked: Early warning signs such as back pain and fatigue were ignored until Beth discovered her blood pressure was alarmingly high—260 over 180—before teaching an aerobics class.
First Transplant Experience: Beth recalls her first kidney transplant from a deceased donor and the time she spent on peritoneal dialysis beforehand.
Living with Gratitude: She reflects on the gift of life she was given, sharing how she now lives with deep gratitude and purpose, never taking moments for granted.
Choosing Nursing as a Calling: Inspired by the care she received, Beth pursued nursing school and built a career dedicated to patient care.
Diverse Nursing Career: Over the years, Beth worked in physical medicine and rehabilitation, cardiac care, and wellness, blending personal passion with professional expertise.
A Family Friend’s Gift: Beth’s second transplant came from her mother’s longtime friend—who became her perfect living donor match.
The Difference with Living Donation: Beth shares how the experience of having a living donor was unique—allowing her to build an ongoing relationship and celebrate life together.
Community Inspiration: Beth believes her donor’s act of generosity inspired many others in the Fort Thomas community to register as organ donors.
Raising Awareness Through Storytelling: Her journey has helped alleviate fears and spread awareness about the importance of organ donation.
The Power of Living Donation: Beth emphasizes how living kidney donors can make a profound and immediate difference in someone’s life.
Celebrating Milestones: Every September 18th, Beth and her donor celebrate their transplant anniversary together, honoring the bond and the gift of life they share.

📝 Key Takeaways

Every Organ Donation Extends Far Beyond One Life. Beth’s story shows how organ donation not only restores health but also inspires communities to register, talk openly, and advocate for donation.
Living Donors Create Unique Bonds. A living donation carries a special connection between donor and recipient—allowing them to celebrate milestones together and share a lifetime of gratitude.
Purpose Through Gratitude. Beth transformed her personal health journey into a 35-year nursing career, using her experiences to fuel compassion, service, and advocacy for others facing similar challenges.

📢 Tweetable Quotes

“So then went to the hospital. They ended up finding out that I had just had complete renal failure. They tested me, and I had no kidney function whatsoever.”

- Beth Otto on her firsthand experience of Kidney Failure

“Thank you from the bottom of my kidney. I don't ever take a moment for granted. I live every day as hard and as fast as I can, and try as hard and as fast as I can to help everybody else have that same joy.”

- Beth Otto

“So that's why I went back to nursing school, and that's where I felt like what I gained from being in the hospital, and the care that I received while I was getting my transplant, I was like, Okay, this is I gotta do this.”

- Beth Otto on going to nursing school

“And so I really always wanted to become a heart nurse, okay? And so I ended up getting and working in cardiac and the cardiac unit cardiac rehab, and I did that for 19 years, and then I worked alongside wellness and cardiac care.”

- Beth Otto on her roles as a heart nurse

“And the perfect match is obviously an identical twin. She was the second-best thing, just a perfect match. She said the only thing that would have been better was if I had had a twin.”

- Beth Otto on her 2nd kidney transplant

“I guess they differ because I have the ability now to be with my donor all the time. Yeah, we go out frequently. We, you know, celebrate each other's successes, stories, and lives. We're all family, right? Her husband always says, “they're all here”, and so that's just a really fun way, and it's really true.”

- Beth Otto on how the 2 transplants differ

“That's what I hear often from people who have been donors, living kidney donors, as much of a blessing as they have been to that person that they're able to help, they feel they were equally as blessed because they were able to give this gift.”

- Andi Johnson

Resources:

https://www.networkforhope.org/stories-of-hope/

EP 125: Mes de la Herencia Hispana: Honrando el Pasado, Inspirando el Futuro (Hispanic Heritage Month: Honoring the Past, Inspiring the Future)

Tue, 09 Sep 2025 20:32:33 -0400

EP 124: One Family, Three Transplant Journeys: Life with Alport Syndrome

Tue, 02 Sep 2025 05:00:00 -0400

Title: One Family, Three Transplant Journeys: Life with Alport Syndrome

🎙️ Episode Summary

In this heartfelt episode of This Thing Called Life, host Andi Johnson speaks with Amanda and Hunter, a mother and son living with Alport Syndrome—a rare genetic disease that affects just 1 in 50,000 live births. Their story is one of resilience, family strength, and the life-changing power of organ donation.

Amanda and Hunter share their family’s long history of transplants and the challenges of living with this condition, which impacts not only the kidneys but also the ears and eyes, leading to hearing and vision loss over time. From Amanda’s first transplant on New Year’s Day 2015, to Hunter’s sudden kidney failure at age 20, to Caitlin’s emergent transplant journey—this episode paints an intimate picture of how one family continues to navigate illness, hope, and healing together.

Most importantly, Amanda and Hunter underscore the critical importance of organ donation and living donors, emphasizing how education and awareness can make a profound difference for families like theirs.

✨ Episode Highlights

Introducing the Guests: Andi welcomes Amanda and Hunter, who both live with the rare genetic disease Alport Syndrome.
What is Alport Syndrome?: Amanda explains that it affects type four collagen in the kidneys, also present in the ears and eyes, leading to kidney failure, hearing loss, and vision loss over time.
A Family History: Amanda recounts her lifelong connection to the disease, being diagnosed in infancy, and how her grandparents also faced kidney disease.
Amanda’s First Transplant: At age 31, on New Year’s Day 2015, Amanda received her first kidney transplant after traveling to Arkansas when a match was found through the University of Kentucky.
10 Years of Health, Then Rejection: The transplant allowed her to live relatively healthy for a decade, until October of last year, when she was diagnosed with chronic rejection. Her kidney function has now dropped to 9%, and she is preparing for dialysis access surgery.
Hunter’s Journey: Diagnosed young, Hunter went into kidney failure suddenly at age 20. Now on hemodialysis, he shares the physical exhaustion and emotional toll of treatment while awaiting a kidney transplant.
Milestones Interrupted: Hunter turned 21 while on dialysis, reflecting on the difficulty of celebrating life milestones while facing health challenges.
Caitlin’s Emergent Case: Amanda’s daughter, Caitlin, experienced a different path, requiring an emergent ICU stay. She had a tunnel calf, placed her GFR, and got down to four or five before she started dialysis.
Facing Uncertainty: Hunter opens up about the mental and emotional strain of waiting for a transplant, but finds reassurance in his family’s shared experiences.
Searching for Hope: Amanda, Hunter, and Caitlin are currently seeking a living donor, while also remaining on the waiting list.
The Power of Living Donation: Amanda discusses how living donors have transformed her family’s story and recalls the touching moment she received a letter from her donor.
Holding on to Dreams: Hunter shares his hope to return to his passion for music, which has been put on hold due to his health.
Closing Gratitude: Andi thanks Amanda and Hunter for their openness and for shining a light on the life-saving importance of organ donation.

📝 Key Takeaways

Alport Syndrome Impacts More Than Just the Kidneys. The disease affects collagen in the kidneys, ears, and eyes—causing kidney failure along with hearing and vision loss. Families living with Alport face a multifaceted battle that extends beyond dialysis and transplants.
Living Donation Changes Lives. Amanda and her family’s story highlights how living donors can provide not just organs, but hope, extra years of health, and renewed possibilities for families facing genetic diseases.
The Emotional Toll Is Real, But So Is Resilience. From Amanda’s transplant journey to Hunter’s daily dialysis struggles, the episode underscores both the emotional challenges of waiting for a transplant and the strength families draw from one another while navigating uncertainty.

📢 Tweetable Quotes

“Alport Syndrome is a relatively rare genetic disease. I think it affects my daughter has all the stats, like one in 50,000 live births, about 200,000 people across the United States. It affects the type four collagen in the kidney, which is also found in the ears and the eyes. So, along with deterioration of the kidneys, it also causes hearing loss, vision loss over time.” - Amanda

“So I got the call. We were getting ready to have dinner for New Year's Eve, and I got a call from UK (University of Kentucky) saying we have a match out of Arkansas. I went to the hospital by myself, and they did all of my testing, and then everything was perfect. Somehow it was kind of miraculous, and they did the transplant the next day.” - Amanda

“I noticed kind of recurring symptoms…They did a biopsy at that point and showed signs of just chronic rejection, which the average lifespan is about 10 to 12 years for a kidney, so they really couldn't find a cause for it. They just said it was chronic.” - Amanda

“Well, it was kind of just out of nowhere, when it first happened, when I first knew I was going into kidney failure. It was literally just no warning, in one day. It's like a switch flipped, and that was just the case.” - Hunter

“It leaves you pretty drained… once you're off of it, the rest of the day, you're pretty much useless. It just saps everything out of you; you're not really left with much energy. So usually it's just getting off dialysis. If I have anything that needs to be attended to, I'll just do it real quick and then just go home and breathe, you know, fall asleep immediately.” - Hunter

Resources:

https://www.networkforhope.org/stories-of-hope/

Full Circle: Interview with Markeyah Lewis on Life, Lupus, and the Gift of a Kidney - Replay

Tue, 26 Aug 2025 10:46:08 -0400

"Full Circle: Interview with Markeyah Lewis on Life, Lupus, and the Gift of a Kidney"

Markeyah Lewis was diagnosed with Lupus, leading to early kidney failure. When her mother wasn’t a direct transplant match, they turned to Advanced Kidney Donation—a life-changing decision that helped Markeyah receive her transplant in 2022. Now a mother and soon-to-be Doctor of Occupational Therapy, Markeyah shares her powerful story of resilience, motherhood, and the miracle of second chances.

✨ Episode Highlights

Andi introduces Markeyah Lewis and invites her to reflect on how they first met four years ago, during her battle with lupus.
Markeyah shares her inspiring story of resilience and hope amid life-altering circumstances.
She describes undergoing hemodialysis during her senior year of college.
Her mother, although not a direct donor match, was determined to help.
Markeyah explains how Advanced Kidney Donation allowed her mother to donate to another person—making Markeyah a priority on the transplant list.
In 2022, her mother donated a kidney to a stranger named Charlie, with whom they still keep in touch.
Andi and Markeyah discuss the importance of honoring the gift of life after a transplant.
Markeyah offers heartfelt advice for those battling chronic illness, emphasizing the importance of a strong support system.
They explore the role of faith in navigating health struggles and finding purpose.
Markeyah shares her deep gratitude for her mother’s selfless act.
She opens up about her pregnancy journey, which was unexpectedly smooth despite the risks associated with lupus and kidney disease.
Markeyah also details her mother’s donation journey and her current health.
She expresses thanks to their medical team and looks forward to becoming an occupational therapist.
The episode concludes with Markeyah reflecting on her first Mother’s Day.

📝 Key Takeaways

Markeyah's story sheds light on the power of organ donation and the impact of Advanced Kidney Donation. Her mother’s courage to donate a kidney to a stranger not only saved a life but also gave Markeyah a new beginning.
Despite the challenges of chronic illness, Markeyah’s journey illustrates the importance of faith, community, and perseverance.
Her experience of motherhood and her educational pursuits underscore the promise of living life fully post-transplant.

📢 Tweetable Quotes

“I believe it's called advanced kidney donation, where she is not able to donate to me, but she is able to donate to someone else who is in need of a transplant, and that essentially makes me a priority.”

Markeyah Lewis

“So your mom affectionately named her kidney that she donated brown sugar. Yes. So brown sugar is doing well with Charlie.”

Markeyah Lewis

“And so I think that is like the biggest promise that I can keep, again, to my donor and their family and myself, is just to continue to live my life fully.”

Markeyah Lewis

“It was often hard for me to imagine what my life would be like, not on dialysis or, you know, not battling a chronic illness. And it may seem simple, but really truly, just don't give up.”

Markeyah Lewis

Resources:

EP 123: Mes Nacional de Concientización sobre la Donación de Minorías

Wed, 20 Aug 2025 08:34:20 -0400

EP 122: "The Gift of Life: A Conversation with Dr. Alex Ancheta, Transplant Surgeon"

Tue, 05 Aug 2025 05:00:00 -0400

Title: "The Gift of Life: A Conversation with Dr. Alex Ancheta, Transplant Surgeon"

🎙️ Episode Summary

In this inspiring episode, we sit down with Dr. Alex Ancheta, a transplant surgeon at the UK HealthCare Transplant Center. Dr. Ancheta shares his journey into the world of transplant surgery, from his educational path to the personal motivations that drew him to this life-saving field. He opens up about the emotional and professional drive behind his work, as well as the vital importance of clear and compassionate communication, especially when addressing generational concerns surrounding organ donation. Join us for a powerful discussion on what it truly means to give, receive, and advocate for the gift of life.

✨ Episode Highlights

Meet Dr. Alex Ancheta. Andi welcomes Dr. Ancheta, a transplant surgeon at UK HealthCare's Transplant Center, who shares his career journey from EMT to physician, and what drew him into transplant surgery.
The Rewards and Challenges of Transplant Surgery. Dr. Ancheta opens up about the emotional rewards of helping save lives, while also reflecting on the ethical and logistical challenges of organ donation—such as finding suitable matches and ensuring fair allocation.
The Role of AI and Data. He discusses how artificial intelligence and advanced data systems are helping improve organ allocation and streamline transplant logistics.
Patient Stories and Lifelong Impact. Andi and Dr. Ancheta discuss how patients’ courage and gratitude inspire their continued work. Dr. Ancheta shares that his responsibility doesn’t end after surgery—it continues as patients live on with their new organs.
Restoring Faith in Humanity. Dr. Ancheta reflects on the power of witnessing anonymous organ donation, saying that moments like these reaffirm his belief in the goodness of people.
Clarifying Misconceptions Around Registration. He debunks a common myth: registering as an organ donor doesn’t guarantee donation. Only a small percentage of people become eligible at the time of death, but registering still matters.
Addressing Mistrust and Misconceptions. Dr. Ancheta talks about the mistrust in underserved communities, and how open dialogue, education, and firsthand stories from organ recipients can begin to rebuild understanding and hope.
Breaking Down Barriers to Transplant Evaluation. Together, Andi and Dr. Ancheta discuss the importance of making transplant evaluation more accessible, including the role of support groups and education in guiding patients through the process.
The Power of Living Donation. Dr. Ancheta shares how he encourages kidney patients to consider living donation as a life-extending option, and highlights the incredible stories of connection between donors and recipients.
A Memorable Reunion. Witnessing a transplant recipient meet the donor’s family—an emotional and unforgettable exchange that shows the far-reaching impact of one person’s decision.
Looking Ahead. The episode wraps with a discussion on how technology continues to transform organ transplant practices, from evaluation to recovery.

📝 Key Takeaways

Transplant Surgery Is More Than a Procedure—It’s a Lifelong Commitment. Dr. Ancheta emphasizes that his role extends far beyond the operating room. The relationships with patients and their stories continue long after surgery, making the work deeply personal and meaningful.
Misinformation Is One of the Biggest Barriers to Donation. Many people misunderstand what it means to register as an organ donor. Dr. Ancheta advocates for open, honest education and cultural sensitivity, especially in underserved communities.
Technology Is Advancing the Future of Transplant Care. AI and data analytics are helping make the organ allocation process more efficient and equitable, bringing hope to patients waiting for life-saving transplants.

📢 Tweetable Quotes

“People who have organ failure from different causes, and being able to see the transformation that you can make the difference in their lives and how much, how much it changes them.”- Dr. Ancheta

“I think transplant as a specialty is a fairly young specialty, and, you know, dealing with the immune system compatibility, there's, you know, such an incredibly complex field that there's still, honestly, a lot to discover.” - Dr. Ancheta

“I think AI can be very useful in helping us to analyze the, you know, the outcomes data and the allocation processes. So I think that's going to be one of the biggest roles that AI is going to help us in determining how we can always, how we can improve the way that we're allocating organs, so how we can improve the way that we're assessing donors.” - Dr. Ancheta

“So it's very gratifying to see you know someone who's had a transplant 10 years ago, and they tell you about their life and the family that they've started…” - Dr. Ancheta

“It requires, you know, a lot of stars to align to be able to donate.” - Dr. Ancheta

Resources:

https://www.networkforhope.org/stories-of-hope/

EP 121: Preguntas Comunes (Common Questions)

Tue, 22 Jul 2025 05:00:00 -0400

EP 120: The Dual Role of Advocacy in Organ Donation with Hannah Boylan, Family Support Supervisor at Network for Hope

Tue, 08 Jul 2025 04:00:00 -0400

🎙️ Episode Summary

In this heartfelt and eye-opening episode, host Andi Johnson sits down with Hannah Boylan, a Family Support Supervisor at Network for Hope, to explore the delicate and vital world of organ donation. Hannah offers a behind-the-scenes look at how her team supports families during one of the most difficult moments of their lives—navigating the decision to donate a loved one’s organs.

With a background in bioethics, Hannah shares how she became involved in this work during the COVID-19 pandemic and how her training helps her think clearly through emotionally complex situations. The episode dives deep into the concept of dual advocacy—supporting both donor families and recipients—and emphasizes the importance of accurate information, compassionate care, and honoring each donor’s legacy.

Listeners will gain a new appreciation for the unseen emotional and ethical work that goes into organ donation and walk away with a better understanding of how memory-making items like heartbeat recordings, Medals of Honor, and Honor Walks play a crucial role in healing and closure.

✨ Episode Highlights

Introducing Hannah Boylan: Hannah shares how she discovered her calling during a clinical ethics lecture and transitioned into organ donation work during the height of the pandemic.

The Power of Bioethics in Real Life: Her background in Bioethics allows her to step back, analyze difficult situations, and support families with clarity and compassion.

Understanding Dual Advocacy: Hannah explains the critical need to balance the needs of donor families and patients on the transplant waitlist—both of whom deserve care, attention, and respect.

Writing About Moral Distress in the Field: Hannah discusses her published work addressing the emotional toll and moral complexities faced by those in organ procurement—an area often left unspoken in bioethics literature.

Behind-the-Scenes at Network for Hope: Andi and Hannah talk about the collaboration between organ procurement organizations and hospitals, how and when Family Support teams get called in, and the sensitive timing involved.

Compassionate Keepsakes for Donor Families: From teddy bears and heartbeat recordings to Medals of Honor, Hannah shares how these items help families process their grief while celebrating the heroic choice of donation.

Honor Walks: Some hospitals line the halls with electric candles and staff members during an Honor Walk, paying silent tribute as the donor is moved toward the operating room—a deeply moving moment of collective respect.

Misinformation and Myths About Donation: Hannah discusses the widespread misunderstandings about organ donation and urges the importance of education and transparency in order to empower families to make informed decisions.

📝 Key Takeaways

Dual Advocacy Is Critical: Organ donation professionals must walk a fine line between supporting grieving donor families and honoring the urgent needs of those on the waitlist. Both require empathy, ethics, and balance.
Memory-Making Matters: Keepsakes like heartbeat recordings, Medals of Honor, and Honor Walks offer comfort and help transform a painful moment into a lasting, meaningful tribute.
Education Is Empowerment: Combating myths and misinformation ensures that families can make donation decisions rooted in truth, compassion, and clarity, not fear or misunderstanding.

📢 Tweetable Quotes

“ It's an honor to work with people who're having the worst day of their life, right? And they're able to step away from that grief for a moment, and they're thinking about those people on the wait list…” - Hannah Boylan

“And I think to do this work, you have to be thinking about the recipients on the wait list, but you also have to know that you're providing that comfort to the donor families that you're working with.” - Hannah Boylan

“I think also, when I go into this ethics training, that it changes my mindset. I can separate myself from the situation and look more objectively. If I break down the problems and think about ethical principles that I've been trained in, and that helps me, even if it doesn't give me a clear answer, it lets me think about things in a little bit of a different way, which I find really helpful.” - Hannah Boylan

“Donation is so rare, right? We think that's important to highlight, I think that's something that people don't realize.” - Hannah Boylan and Andi Johnson

“I think donation can be scary. It's a big decision. It's a decision that can't be taken lightly. Families deserve to make the decision that's best for them, but they deserve to have that right information.” - Hannah Boylan

Resources:

https://www.networkforhope.org/stories-of-hope/

EP 119: "Bridging the Gap: The Power of Organ Donation in Kentucky"

Tue, 24 Jun 2025 05:00:00 -0400

Title: "Bridging the Gap: The Power of Organ Donation in Kentucky"

🎙️ Episode Summary

In this powerful episode, host Andi Johnson sits down with Shelley Snyder, Executive Director of Donate Life Kentucky Trust, to explore the life-changing impact of organ donation across the Bluegrass State. Together, they discuss how the organization supports those waiting for tranplants, honors donor families—true heroes in the community—and works to educate Kentuckians on the critical importance of registering as organ donors. Shelley shares heartfelt stories and explains how Donate Life Kentucky fills the gaps in care, awareness, and advocacy, one life-saving conversation at a time.

✨ Episode Highlights

Andi Johnson welcomes guest Shelley Snyder, who shares the mission and outreach of Donate Life Kentucky Trust.
Shelley explains how the organization supports every aspect of the donation journey:
➤ Those waiting for transplants
➤ Recipients of life-saving organs
➤ Families of heroic donors
She proudly highlights partnerships with Network for Hope and the Kentucky Transportation Cabinet, with Commissioner Matt Cole serving as board chair.
Shelley details key programs:

Scholarships for youth
Support for children on transplant waiting lists
Financial aid for transplant recipients and donor families

The Transplant Patient Assistance Fund (est. 2001) has provided over $800,000 in care-related expenses.
The Donor Family Support Program has distributed approximately $100,000 in aid, covering needs such as hotel stays, meals, and living essentials.
Shelley clarifies the distinction between the work of Organ Procurement Organizations (OPOs) and the Trust’s role in wraparound support and community outreach.
Her personal story includes:

The sudden loss of her father, Dennis Evren, whose tissue donation restored sight and helped someone walk.
Her mother’s successful surgery was thanks to donated tissue.

Shelley shares touching stories, including:

A family who lost a daughter and the life-changing impact of her donation.
Jonathan is a transplant recipient, turned powerful advocate.

She emphasizes how circuit court clerks were instrumental in founding the Trust, and how public speaking, community engagement, and media partnerships fuel the mission.
The impact of media portrayals, such as Grey’s Anatomy and The Pit, on raising awareness is explored.
Shelley highlights multiple ways people and businesses can support:

Sponsorships
Third-party fundraising
One-time and recurring donations

She also introduces the “Gift of Life Stories” section on the website, a collection of inspiring personal testimonies.
The episode closes with a heartfelt encouragement to register as an organ donor and get involved in this life-giving mission.

📝 Key Takeaways

The Donate Life Kentucky Trust supports not only organ donation education but also provides real-life aid to those on the transplant journey.
Through philanthropic support, the Trust has helped provide over $900,000 in aid across programs for recipients and donor families.
Shelley’s personal experience—from the loss of her father to her mother’s surgery—deeply informs her work and passion.
The organization was founded by circuit court clerks and continues to rely on that community involvement to grow its reach.
You can make a difference by registering as a donor, sharing the message, or supporting the organization financially.

📢 Tweetable Quotes

“Our real focus is on supporting all areas connected to donation and transplantation, so those who are on the waiting list, those who have received the precious gift of life and those incredible heroes and their families who gave.”

- Shelley Snyder

“I should say, and the registry is so key, as you know, to ensuring that lives are saved. “

- Shelley Snyder

“I've always said, If I ever win the lottery, all my money would go to helping these incredible, heroic donor families who have given the gift of life at the worst time in their lives.”

- Shelley Snyder

“I say that with the OPOs, because there's a clear distinction of what our role and responsibilities are. So it's just it's great to have that partnership with the trust. “

- Andi Johnson

“I just, I love this mission so much. It's been a part of my life since I was 17 years old.”

- Shelley Snyder

“His gift of tissue is going to help someone walk. And we learned later that he gave sight to a 22-year-old and a 29-year-old.”

- Shelley Snyder

“People can be organ donors and save a life, and we need to get the word out. And so they started doing that through driver's license, accepting the $1 donations, and that went into a trust, and that's what our organization was founded on, and that was in 1992.”

- Shelley Snyder

“We find that public speaking is really, really impactful, because we are able to share the facts and talk directly to people and open the door.”

- Shelley Snyder

“We rely on businesses and individuals to work with us to make all of these programs possible. And we have a wonderful team.”

- Shelley Snyder

Resources:

EP 118: "Mes de concientización sobre la salud mental" (Mental Health Awareness Month)

Tue, 10 Jun 2025 05:00:00 -0400

This episode of TTCL will feature an interview with Luis Santiago on La Mega.
This monthly interview will inform the Spanish Community about Network For Hope and
the incredible miracles that happen with Organ, Tissue, and Eye Donation.

Resources:
https://getoffthelist.org/
https://www.networkforhope.org/
https://www.networkforhope.org/about-us/
https://www.facebook.com/NetworkForHopeOPO
https://aopo.org/

EP 117: Spreading Realistic Positivity: David Galbenski’s Mission to Champion Living Donation

Tue, 27 May 2025 05:00:00 -0400

🎙️ Episode Summary

Spreading Realistic Positivity: David Galbenski’s Mission to Champion Living Donation

When David Galbenski received a life-saving liver donation from his brother-in-law, it was more than a second chance—it was a call to action. In this powerful episode, David shares his personal journey from transplant recipient to national advocate for living donation. Discover how his gratitude turned into purpose through the creation of the Living Donor Awareness Games, a movement spreading hope, education, and inspiration across the country. Tune in to hear how one extraordinary act of generosity is now saving countless lives.

✨ Episode Highlights

Andi opens the episode by introducing David Galbenski and invites him to share why today’s venue, the Great American Ballpark, holds special meaning and its connection to living donation.
David explains how the Cincinnati Reds have been strong partners in hosting the Living Donation Awareness Games—an annual event that brings awareness to the power of living donation.
He shares how the energy of the game helps paint a vivid picture of what living donation represents.
The conversation turns personal as David reflects on living with a rare autoimmune disease for six years before pursuing a transplant.
With the unwavering support of his wife Lynn, they embraced living donation as an option—an act of courage and love that led to his brother-in-law, Mark, stepping up as the donor.
David highlights how vulnerability is a key part of the recipient’s journey and underscores the emotional rewards for living donors that are often overlooked.
Faith played a central role in David’s healing and recovery, providing strength through uncertainty.
Mark’s own journey as a donor came with challenges, but he had the blessing of a brother who is a surgeon, guiding him through the process.
David shares how baseball became a powerful platform for spreading hope and awareness, including the upcoming launch of a new national observance—“National Want-To-Have-A-Catch Day,” celebrated every second Saturday of May.
He also honors the medical professionals behind transplant surgeries and their life-saving work.
The discussion touches on legislative efforts to support living donors—such as ending insurance discrimination, offering tax credits, and introducing a 12-week leave policy.
David and Andi explore the research from Kindness.org, which found that becoming a living donor for a friend ranked as the number one act of kindness.
Finally, David shares the emotional tools that helped him through recovery—visualization, music, and keeping faith alive during the waiting period.

📝 Key Takeaways

The Cincinnati Reds have been long-time partners in the Living Donation Awareness Games, helping bring the message of hope and generosity to a wide audience.
David’s transplant journey began after living with a rare disease for six years, and his story shows how love, faith, and family can lead to life-saving decisions.
His brother-in-law Mark’s heroic donation reminds us of the incredible emotional and spiritual rewards of being a living donor.
Baseball has become a unique platform for David to inspire stories of hope, raise awareness, and advocate for policies that remove barriers for donors—including financial and workplace support.
Through kindness, advocacy, and storytelling, David’s mission continues to save lives and bring light to the gift of living donation.

📢 Tweetable Quotes

“Well, the Reds have been a tremendous partner in launching Living Donor Awareness games that we've been doing now for three or four years.”

- David Galbenski

“And so what we loved about that was baseball was this perfect vehicle, yes to allow living organ donation to come to life. And then here's the beauty of living organ donation yes tied to baseball, another great metaphor, the ultimate double play.”

- David Galbenski

“I really leaned in my faith on this journey…”

- David Galbenski

“So I call it Realistic positivity, right? Let's embrace life with everything, but let's make sure we're confronting the facts right, acronym head-on, right. But then doing it with optimism, absolutely, doing it with faith, doing it with a desire to say, when I get through this, I'm going to pay it forward.”

- David Galbenski

“And they surveyed 10s of 1000s of people to say what would be the biggest overall kind act that someone could do. The number one overall act of kindness, out of 1692 acts that they surveyed, was giving and becoming a living donor for a friend.”

- David Galbenski

Resources:

EP 116: "Full Circle: Interview with Markeyah Lewis on Life, Lupus, and the Gift of a Kidney"

Tue, 13 May 2025 05:00:00 -0400

🎙️ Episode Summary

"Full Circle: Interview with Markeyah Lewis on Life, Lupus, and the Gift of a Kidney"

✨ Episode Highlights

Andi introduces Markeyah Lewis and invites her to reflect on how they first met four years ago, during her battle with lupus.
Markeyah shares her inspiring story of resilience and hope amid life-altering circumstances.
She describes undergoing hemodialysis during her senior year of college.
Her mother, although not a direct donor match, was determined to help.
Markeyah explains how Advanced Kidney Donation allowed her mother to donate to another person—making Markeyah a priority on the transplant list.
In 2022, her mother donated a kidney to a stranger named Charlie, with whom they still keep in touch.
Andi and Markeyah discuss the importance of honoring the gift of life after a transplant.
Markeyah offers heartfelt advice for those battling chronic illness, emphasizing the importance of a strong support system.
They explore the role of faith in navigating health struggles and finding purpose.
Markeyah shares her deep gratitude for her mother’s selfless act.
She opens up about her pregnancy journey, which was unexpectedly smooth despite the risks associated with lupus and kidney disease.
Markeyah also details her mother’s donation journey and her current health.
She expresses thanks to their medical team and looks forward to becoming an occupational therapist.
The episode concludes with Markeyah reflecting on her first Mother’s Day.

📝 Key Takeaways

Markeyah's story sheds light on the power of organ donation and the impact of Advanced Kidney Donation. Her mother’s courage to donate a kidney to a stranger not only saved a life but also gave Markeyah a new beginning.
Despite the challenges of chronic illness, Markeyah’s journey illustrates the importance of faith, community, and perseverance.
Her experience of motherhood and her educational pursuits underscore the promise of living life fully post-transplant.

📢 Tweetable Quotes

- Markeyah Lewis

“So your mom affectionately named her kidney that she donated brown sugar. Yes. So brown sugar is doing well with Charlie.”

- Markeyah Lewis

“And so I think that is like the biggest promise that I can keep, again, to my donor and their family and myself, is just to continue to live my life fully.”

- Markeyah Lewis

“It was often hard for me to imagine what my life would be like, not on dialysis or, you know, not battling a chronic illness. And it may seem simple, but really truly, just don't give up.”

- Markeyah Lewis

Resources:

EP 115: "Healing After Loss: Gretchen Starnes on Grief, Hope, and the Gift of Life"

Tue, 29 Apr 2025 05:00:00 -0400

Episode Summary

In this heartfelt episode, we sit down with Gretchen Starnes, Family Aftercare Manager with Network for Hope (Louisville), an organization that also supports families after the loss of a loved one through organ donation. Gretchen shares the deeply human side of her work—walking with families through the grief process, offering comfort, connection, and compassion in the wake of profound loss. We explore how the gift of life through donation can bring a measure of hope to unimaginable sorrow, and how Gretchen and her team help families navigate that journey with care and grace.

✨ Episode Highlights

Gretchen Starnes discusses her role as a Family Aftercare Manager at Network for Hope.
She describes the Aftercare Department’s mission to support donor families and ensure their needs are met with compassion and understanding.
Gretchen shares her personal journey, beginning as a Family Support Worker and transitioning to Aftercare, highlighting the critical role of empathy in her work.
She reflects on working with grief and the full spectrum of emotions that come with it, reminding us: “There’s nothing wrong with you when you’re grieving.”
Andi asks Gretchen about the myths and misconceptions surrounding grief and bereavement support.
Gretchen explains that support systems often fade after the first year of loss and shares her experience that, for many, the second year is even harder.
The organization offers 15 months of ongoing support through mailings, in-person meetings, and online resources.
Families find healing and comfort in sharing stories, memories, and legacies of their loved ones.
Donor families play a vital role in encouraging and supporting newly bereaved families through direct connections.
Gretchen talks about the emotional challenges donor families face when reaching out to donor recipients and how the organization offers guidance through that process.
They reflect on the powerful impact of the Holiday Honor Walk, which brings donor families together to foster connection, support, and healing.
Gretchen emphasizes the importance of saving lives through organ donation and the value of being surrounded by a strong, supportive community.
She also highlights the importance of self-care, a healthy team environment, and emotional support to navigate the difficulties inherent in this deeply meaningful work.

📝 Key Takeaways

Gretchen Starnes shares insight into her work as a Family Aftercare Manager at Network for Hope and the organization's mission to meet the needs of donor families with compassion.
She and Andi explore the realities of grief, the range of emotions involved, and the common myths and misconceptions about supporting grieving families.
Gretchen explains how donor families approach donor recipients and describes how the donor community's connection fosters healing, hope, and resilience.

📢 Tweetable Quotes

"I think that is the honor that all of us in aftercare have, to walk beside these families during their grief and really establish rapport and relationship with them."
— Gretchen Starnes

"Doing this work really restores my faith in humanity."
— Gretchen Starnes

"There's nothing wrong with you when you're grieving. What you need is someone to walk beside you, to help you take that next breath, the next step, and to help support them."
— Gretchen Starnes

"One of the greatest fears for most people who are grieving is that people will stop saying their loved one's name, or that they will forget those details of their loved ones."
— Gretchen Starnes

"There are moments it's okay to be sad and where we need to cry, and tears are cleansing. Yet we also want to show that hope that comes from the amazing gift that loved one gave, so I think the Honor Walk kind of brings all of those things together."
— Gretchen Starnes

Resources:

EP 114: A Heart for Hadlee: A Story of Hope, Healing, and a Grateful Heart with Jon and Felicia Rohman

Tue, 15 Apr 2025 05:00:00 -0400

Episode Summary

In this powerful episode, we sit down with Jon and Felicia Rohman to share the remarkable journey of their daughter Hadlee, who underwent a life-saving heart transplant in 2020—right amid a global pandemic. What began as a terrifying health issue became a testimony of faith, resilience, and appreciation for the incredible gift of life. Years later, Hadlee is thriving, healthy, joyful, and full of gratitude. Join us as Andi Johnson interviews the Rohmans, who open up about their challenges, the community that rallied around them, and the beautiful, beating heart of their daughter’s second chance at life.

✨ Episode Highlights

Andi Johnson welcomes Jon and Felicia Rohman, a husband-and-wife team and proud parents of four.
The conversation centers around Hadlee, their third child, who was born with hypoplastic left heart syndrome.
Felicia recounts Hadlee’s birth in 2017 and the significant right-sided heart failure she experienced by late 2019, which made organ donation the only viable option.
Jon discusses the mental and emotional preparation required as they faced the reality of a potential heart transplant.
The couple acted quickly, getting Hadlee placed on the transplant list in January 2020. She received her new heart on May 28, 2020—coincidentally, their son’s birthday.
Jon reflects on the emotional toll of the process, including a failed donation and navigating the challenges brought on by the COVID-19 pandemic.
Felicia shares the complexity of maintaining infection control while managing the needs of their other children. During this time, Jon resigned from his job to be with Hadlee full-time at the hospital.
Jon honors Felicia’s strength as she worked two jobs—80 hours a week—while homeschooling and caring for their children at home amid the pandemic.
Today, Hadlee is flourishing with a new baby sister and enjoys activities such as swimming, soccer, and dancing.
The Rohmans express deep gratitude to the donor family, highlighting the life-changing impact of the transplant.
Felicia reflects on how their faith sustained them through hardship and the emotional conversations they had with their children.
The couple emphasizes the vital importance of organ donation and the hope it brings to families in need.
Jon encourages other families to lean into their communities and be open to receiving help.
They also speak to the power of social media in spreading Hadlee’s story and building a network of support.
The Rohmans express appreciation for organizations such as Donate Life and Network For Hope for amplifying their journey and giving them a platform to share.

📝 Key Takeaways

The Rohmans candidly share their daughter Hadlee’s powerful story of survival through a heart transplant during the global pandemic.
They reflect on their mental and emotional journey as parents navigating uncertainty, especially at the height of COVID-19.
Their testimony highlights the sacrifices they made, their unwavering faith, and the critical support of their community, family, and social media network.

Tweetable Quotes:

“At the beginning of 2020, she started to have a pretty significant right-sided heart failure. So really, at that point, our only hope was organ donation and transplant.” - Felicia Rohman
“They said she was one of the quickest to be put on the transplant list — So January, 2020, and then she actually had her transplant, May 28 of 2020, which is ironically our son's birthday.” - Felicia Rohman
“I don't think I fully appreciated everything that she (Felicia) was doing while I was in the hospital with Hadlee. But with me having quit my job, she was working two jobs, 80 hours a week, with the other two kids at home, navigating COVID, and then having to do homeschooling, and everything else in that capacity.” - Jon Rohman
“There were a lot of tears on the way back home because they didn't understand the full magnitude of everything that was going on. But yeah, I think just supporting each other and just kind of trying to maintain some sense of normalcy through things with our faith, it is really kind of what got us through.” - Felicia Rohman
“It just gives hope, not only to the recipient families, but as those things are going on, hope that something better can come out of it and and to just be able to acknowledge that you can see good following a storm.” - Felicia Rohman

Resources:

EP 113: "Living in the Moment: Zach Wells on Overcoming Adversity and the Gift of Hope"

Tue, 01 Apr 2025 08:59:22 -0400

Episode Summary

In this inspiring episode, Zach Wells a TV sports anchor shares his incredible journey of receiving a kidney donation from his brother. Zach opens up about the unexpected news that his kidney was failing and the challenges he faced battling kidney disease, and the profound lessons he learned about hope, resilience, and the importance of prioritizing health. Tune in as Zach offers a raw and honest conversation about overcoming adversity and the power of family, health, and seizing the moment.

Episode Highlights

Zach Wells was diagnosed with kidney disease in 2007 and experienced a gradual decline in kidney function before receiving a transplant in 2018.
He recalls the moment he first learned something was wrong—his wife left him a message from a business trip, urging him to check his test results after his doctor raised concerns about his creatinine levels.
Determined to manage his condition, Zach relied on diet, exercise, and medication but ultimately knew that a transplant was the best path forward.
Before his diagnosis, Zach was a self-proclaimed workaholic, often neglecting his health in favor of his career. He later realized that without prioritizing his well-being, his time was limited.
He reflects on the physical toll of kidney disease—the fatigue, nausea, and other symptoms—while balancing parenthood and work responsibilities.
Throughout his journey, Zach found unwavering support from his wife, Caroline, and his family, which made all the difference.
His brother turned out to be a perfect donor match, bringing renewed hope and gratitude.
Zach discusses the emotional and physical impact of his illness, the dedication of his medical team, and the perspective he gained through this experience.
Inspired by Zach’s story, Andi sheds light on the kidney transplant crisis and the need for greater awareness about living donors.
Prospective donors undergo rigorous screening, but their generosity can transform the lives of over 100,000 people currently on the transplant waitlist.
When asked for advice to men facing kidney disease or dialysis, Zach encourages them to stay present, be patient, and stay committed to their medical care and fitness routines.
He highlights the importance of hope, scientific advancements, and the skilled professionals who make transplants possible.
Zach expresses deep gratitude for his transplant surgeon, doctors, and everyone who played a role in his recovery.

Key Takeaways

Zach’s journey with kidney disease began in 2007, leading to a transplant in 2018.
His initial reluctance to seek medical care due to work commitments taught him a valuable lesson about balance and self-care.
The support of his family, medical team, and a generous kidney donation from his brother gave him a second chance at life. He now finds joy in the little things and is committed to raising awareness about kidney disease and transplantation.

Tweetable Quotes:

“So about managing the disease, doing everything I could to be as healthy as I could, drink as much water as I could, have the best diet that I possibly could, knowing that probably the chances of this reversing, the chances of this having a better outcome, were not going to be a very high so it's a long road.” - Zach Wells
“I think transplants really reward the patient. They reward the dutiful, they reward the optimistic.” - Zach Wells
“I was a workaholic. All I thought about was work. And I thought that I can't deal with this or go to the doctor, because that's going to interfere with my work schedule. But I learned very quickly that if I didn't get balance and prioritize this as another full-time job, that I wasn't going to be around very long.” - Zach Wells
“I was not feeling well at all. I was run down. I had like, bags under my eyes. I would randomly sweat, I felt nauseous.” - Zach Wells
“I think that that's one of the many areas where I've been so lucky, is just having an incredible support network of people that have really helped me. That's amazing.” - Zach Wells
“What I want to do is, like, really draw attention to the fact that this is an incredibly solvable problem. Yes, like the people that are waiting, like, the waiting list is over 100,000.” - Zach Wells

Resources:

EP 112: Building Legacy: Means Cameron on Entrepreneurship, Community, and Organ Donation

Tue, 18 Mar 2025 05:00:00 -0400

Episode Summary

In this episode of This Thing Called Life, Andi Johnson interviews Means Cameron, a successful entrepreneur from Cincinnati and the founder of the clothing brand BlaCkOWned™ Outerwear. Means shares the inspiration behind launching BlaCkOWned™ Outerwear in 2011, influenced by his cultural experiences and the importance of representation. He discusses the significance of community ownership, legacy, and his personal connection to organ donation.

Cameron highlights the impact of organ donors on his friends' lives, including a fraternity brother who received a kidney transplant. He also addresses common misconceptions about organ donation within the Black community, emphasizing the need for education, trust, and personal storytelling to make the topic more relatable.

The discussion underscores the power of local narratives in raising awareness about organ donation and encourages open conversations within families and communities.

Episode Highlights

Origins of BlaCkOWned™ Outerwear: Means Cameron shares how the brand was born out of his desire to embrace identity, cultural heritage, and community pride.
Meaning Behind the Brand Name: "BlaCkOWned™ wasn’t just about a Black-owned business—it was about owning who we are as a people, our culture."
Legacy and Impact: Means expresses his vision for his legacy: "Fostering Black creativity and dialogue, and showing people they have options."
Connection to Organ Donation:
- Means discusses his personal experiences with organ donation, including friends and family members who have received transplants.
- He highlights the challenges of mistrust and misinformation about organ donation in the Black community.
Addressing Misconceptions:
- Many individuals fear that becoming an organ donor could put their lives at risk in medical settings.
- In reality, only 1% of registered organ donors pass in a way that allows for organ donation, while thousands remain on transplant waiting lists.
The Importance of Storytelling: Means emphasizes the need to humanize the organ donation process by sharing real-life experiences to build trust and awareness.
Encouraging Open Dialogue:
- Andi asks Means how he would approach someone hesitant about organ donation.
- Means stresses the importance of respecting different perspectives while sharing personal experiences to help others make informed decisions.
Final Reflections: Andi expresses gratitude for the meaningful discussion and appreciates Means’ insights on business, legacy, and organ donation advocacy.

Key Takeaways:

Means Cameron’s journey as an entrepreneur reflects his deep commitment to identity, community, and legacy.
His personal experiences with organ donation have fueled his advocacy for increasing awareness and addressing misconceptions.
Andi and Means then dig deeper into educating ourselves and others about how organ donation can help address mistrust and save lives and the importance of humanizing the organ donation process by sharing personal stories and the faces who make it more relatable and trustworthy.

Tweetable Quotes:

“Cincinnati needed something for the culture, something that spoke to our culture, to give us something to be proud about, to speak about our heritage, and for not to just be in private rooms, but for us to be able to take it out into the world. “ - Means Cameron
“So the idea of BlaCkOWned™ came out of me, wanting to have ownership of who I am and never losing it.” - Means Cameron
“And so BlaCkOWned™ wasn't just about a black-owned business. It was about owning who we are as a people, our culture and the name black owned, just came to me. “ - Means Cameron
“One of the most challenging things in our community is that we believe that if we become organ donors, that someone is going to take our organs if we ever are sick or in a doctor's bed and our life is on the line.” - Means Cameron
“ I guess the best thing I can do for anyone that is on the fence is just to share with them my own experiences. “ - Means Cameron

Resources:

EP 111: Día Nacional del Donante y Salud del Corazón (National Donor Day and Heart Health)

Tue, 11 Mar 2025 05:00:00 -0400

EP 110: Transforming Organ Procurement Through Innovation Outreach and Leadership with Joel Chase

Tue, 04 Mar 2025 05:19:49 -0500

In this episode of This Thing Called Life, Andi Johnson sits down with Joel Chase, Vice President of Organ Services at Network for Hope, to discuss his role and how it has evolved following a recent merger. Joel shares insights into the integration of two smaller Organ Procurement Organizations (OPOs) into Network for Hope, the strategic changes that followed, and how he is leading a growing team.

Joel walks through the organ donation process, from the initial referral to organ recovery, emphasizing the importance of supporting donor families, transplant recipients, and OPO staff who navigate these complex and life-changing moments. He also reflects on his career journey, the challenges of balancing leadership with personal life, and the impact of medical advancements on the field of organ donation.

Episode Highlights:

Joel’s Role & the Organ Donation Process: He oversees the entire donation process, from organ referral and evaluation to allocation and recovery.
Navigating Growth Post-Merger: The transition from 32 full-time employees at Legacy Life Center to over 90 at Network for Hope has required new leadership strategies.
Evolving Case Timelines: The duration of cases has expanded from 24 to over 50 hours, depending on testing and logistical challenges.
What Drives Joel: He is motivated by mission-driven work, helping people, and witnessing his team’s success.
Biggest Leadership Challenge: Time management in an organization that never stops and balancing work with family life.
Leadership Philosophy: Leading with openness, support, and grace while prioritizing an inclusive leadership style.
Memorable Moments: Joel shares a powerful story of how a leader’s critical decision helped save three lives, a defining learning experience in his career.
Public Awareness: He encourages open conversations about organ donation with loved ones and addresses concerns from those hesitant to register.

Key Takeaways:

Leadership in Organ Donation: Joel shares insights into leading a non-profit OPO, managing growth, and the importance of learning through challenges ("failing forward").
The Organ Donation Process: Understanding how OPOs evaluate, allocate, and recover organs while collaborating with hospitals to ensure successful transplants.
Encouraging Public Awareness: Addressing misconceptions about organ donation and why open conversations with family are essential.

Tweetable Quotes:

“I've always been fascinated with medicine, so you get to kind of play nurse or doctor without necessarily having to have the license. So I thought that that was just a great, intriguing career.” - Joel Chase
“We are there to help facilitate, to make donation happen in the best way possible, and in these 24 hour shifts that a lot of the team members are working and all the things that they're doing, it's very hard to expect perfection when a lot of staff want to do their best all the time, and it's just not possible. We're all humans, and we have to have some grace for each other too.” - Joel Chase
“I think that we should learn from our experiences, whether they're good or bad. If we don't learn from them, then I think that's more of a failure. Otherwise, it's an opportunity to improve and do better the next time. So I definitely like that mindset, and it kind of ties into knowing that we're not perfect people, and I don't think we're ever going to have a perfect A to Z case” - Joel Chase
“It's the OPOs job to evaluate the patient's medical record and their current clinical condition for organ donation potential. A lot of times that could mean that the patient ends up surviving their injury, and they go through the rehabilitation process” - Joel Chase

Resources:

EP 109: "Novedades y unas becas"

Tue, 11 Feb 2025 08:35:50 -0500

This episode of TTCL will feature an interview with Julie Luebbers on La Mega.
This monthly interview will inform the Spanish Community about Network For Hope and
the incredible miracles that happen with Organ, Tissue, and Eye Donation.

Resources:
https://getoffthelist.org/
https://www.networkforhope.org/
https://www.networkforhope.org/about-us/
https://www.facebook.com/NetworkForHopeOPO
https://aopo.org/

EP 108: Say Yes To Registering To Be An Organ, Tissue and Eye Donor In 2025

Tue, 04 Feb 2025 05:00:00 -0500

Community Heroes is a special extension of This Thing Called Life’s podcast. In this series, we talk to community leaders, share important information about organ and tissue donation, and honor those who have been instrumental in saving lives through the gift of donation. In this episode, we talk with Lincoln Ware from WDBZ the Buzz of Cincinnati talk station.

Resources

https://registerme.org/

EP 107: Take The First Step To Help Others Who Need An Organ, Tissue Or Eye Transplant

Tue, 28 Jan 2025 05:00:00 -0500

Community Heroes is a special extension of This Thing Called Life’s podcast. In this series, we talk to community leaders, share important information about organ and tissue donation, and honor those who have been instrumental in saving lives through the gift of donation. In this episode, we talk with Don Juan from 100.3 FM Cincy's R&B station in Cincinnati.

Resources

https://registerme.org/

Resources:
https://getoffthelist.org/
https://www.networkforhope.org/
https://www.networkforhope.org/about-us/
https://www.facebook.com/NetworkForHopeOPO
https://aopo.org/

EP 106: The Donation Coordinator's Responsibility within the Donation Process of the Organ Procurement Organization, with Christienne King

Thu, 09 Jan 2025 08:57:14 -0500

Episode 106: The Donation Coordinator's Responsibility within the Donation Process of the Organ Procurement Organization, with Christienne King

During this episode of This Thing Called Life, host Andi Johnson talks about the donation process from the OPO (Organ Procurement Organization) lens. This week, Andi is speaking with Christenne King. She is the Senior Donation Coordinator. She meets family in very difficult times. Tune in to hear about her experiences as it relates to the important process of organ donation.

Episode Highlights:

Many people believe that organ, eye, and tissue donation is just a service of the hospital but Andi shares how it is much bigger than that and requires the collaboration of many.
Christenne has been with the Life Center for over 20 years and is currently the Senior Donation Coordinator. She explains her role as one of the individuals who handles the evaluation, medical management, organ placement, and logistics of the operating room for an organ donation.
Andi asks Christenne to share what kind of training and background is required to do work as she does.
Christenne shares her personal experience with organ donation about her sister, Adrienne King who had epilepsy and cerebral palsy.
What does brain dead mean? Christenne shares facts that listeners may not be aware of. She explains the difference between that and a vegetative state or coma.
Organ donation and the education around it have grown significantly over the years.
Christenne explains her connection to Network For Hope and how meaningful it has been to her on several levels.
Christenne put herself to paramedic school and applied as an organ coordinator.
Andi asks Christenne how she prepares for her day and meeting with families in desperate times.
What happens at the bedside to evaluate potential organ donation?
Christenne shares that some cases have changed her forever and how it has been a blessing.
What goes into supporting the families who are in contact with them?
Andi talks about how COVID-19 caused many people to reflect and seek more meaningful jobs.
Andi asks Christenne to share what a typical workday looks like for a donation coordinator.
Logistics and time frames are very important in the process; Christenne explains.
A lot of communication is required for this job because of the many pieces that must come together.
An average case lasts about 72 hours so that the right thing is accomplished with the donor.
Christenne talks about when organ gifts are placed in other locations.
The donation coordinators are very passionate about giving each individual the best preservation options.
Have you thought about registering to be a donor? Find out more at https://lifepassiton.org/

3 Key Points

Christenne shares her personal experience with organ donation when her sister, Adrienne King passed away and saved several other lives.
Organ donation happens through the collaboration of many. Andi and Christenne talk through the organ coordinator role and the piece it is in the overall process.
Emotional taxation is high in the role that Christenne has. She talks about the challenges, and blessings, and how she perseveres through them.

Tweetable Quotes:

“Organ, eye, and tissue donation does not happen without collaboration.” -Andi
“There are intricacies of this life-giving, life-saving process.” -Andi
“When someone has been deemed as potential to help someone through donation, a donation coordinator will be onsite for 24 hours/day through the end of the process.” -Christenne
“For those who do not know, when a person is declared brain dead, it is a legal pronouncement of death, it is the time that will go on their death certificate.” -Christenne
“My sister was one of only 39 organ donors in Cincinnati in 1992. It was so rare.” -Christenne
“Donation can have such a positive effect on those that are donor families. “ -Christenne
“This role requires you to be strong and sensitive to the fact that a family is going through the worst possible time.” -Andi
“We are intimately involved with the families in the room and with the donors in the room, it is difficult.” -Christenne
“Other than being a parent, this job is the most rewarding thing I will do in my life.” -Christenne

Resources Mentioned:

EP 105: 'El mejor regalo de la vida

Tue, 24 Dec 2024 05:00:00 -0500

LifeCenter ahora es Network For Hope! (LifeCenter now is Network For Hope!)
This episode of TTCL will feature an interview with Julie Luebbers on La Mega.
This monthly interview will inform the Spanish Community about Network For Hope and
the incredible miracles that happen with Organ, Eye, and Tissue Donation.

EP104: A Transplant Surgeon’s Journey To Help Others, with Dr Madison Cuffy

Tue, 17 Dec 2024 05:00:00 -0500

A Transplant Surgeon’s Journey To Help Others, with Dr Madison Cuffy

During this episode of This Thing Called Life podcast, host Andi Johnson speaks with Dr. Madison Cuffy, an Associate Professor at UC Health. Dr. Cuffy has built trust-filled relationships with his transplant patients throughout the years and loves nothing more than to see them live their lives to the fullest after getting their transplant.

Episode Highlights:

Dr. Cuffy started his medical journey back in 2002 which led to a multi-organ transplant fellowship at New York Presbyterian.
Growing up in Brooklyn, Dr. Cuffy was first introduced to Cincinnati by Talib Kweli and Hi Tek.
As a 14-year-old, Dr. Cuffy became interested in medicine while volunteering in a hospital cleaning instruments.
Even to this day, no one in Dr. Cuffy’s family has experience in medicine, nor any clue what a transplant surgeon does.
Dr. Cuffy was born in the Caribbean and grew up with his great aunt in New York.
One of the most common misconceptions surrounding organ donation is that the medical community will let you die.
After being in transplant and seeing how one can help create life during a time of despair, Dr. Cuffy became an organ donor.
The medical community is not out to harm organ donors in order to harvest their organs, contrary to popular belief.
According to the statistics, on average, 22 people die every day waiting on an organ transplant.
While most of his focus is on kidney transplants, Dr. Cuffy does work with all transplant organs.
There is an access problem for people who need a kidney transplant and are on dialysis.
Dr. Cuffy facilitates living kidney donation as the best option to treat end-stage renal disease.
Andi has noticed that people of color tend to shy away from sharing their donation needs with other people.
Socioeconomic issues and disadvantages can make it more difficult for certain patients to share their stories.
People who don’t want to share their stories need a donor champion to do it for them.
There are different forms of literacy, so Dr. Cuffy makes sure his patients know that there is no stupid question.
It’s important for patients to speak up about their questions to their doctor so that they don’t get misinformation from another source.
If your physician is too busy to answer your questions now or in the future, you may need to find a different provider.
Dr. Cuffy feels rewarded by his job when he sees his patients experiencing life after their transplant.
His grandmother’s advice was “Always be yourself”, even when things get tough, this message helps Dr Cuffy get through hard days.
Raised without his parents in Brooklyn, Dr. Cuffy knows first hand that you can do anything you set your mind to.
Dr. Cuffy has always had an extra gear that has allowed him to outwork everyone around him.
When he goes back to Brooklyn now, Dr. Cuffy gets a different kind of respect from the people he grew up with.
Dr. Cuffy thoroughly enjoys going to J. Alexanders in Cincinnati because of the sheer amount of professional African Americans that go there.

3 Key Points:

While volunteering at a hospital with the hopes of staying off the streets as a 15-year-old boy, Dr. Cuffy had the opportunity to watch a kidney transplant up close, and that’s how he chose the transplant route.
Unlike in other cities that have multiple transplant programs with different surgeons, Cincinnati has a single transplant program where the doctors act as one unit.
Living donor kidneys last anywhere from 15 to 20 years, recipients don’t have to wait on a list to get one, and the quality is usually very good.

Resources:

https://www.uchealth.com/en/transplant

Dr Madison Cuffy

EP 103: Tis The Season Of Giving

Fri, 13 Dec 2024 05:00:00 -0500

Community Heroes is a special extension of This Thing Called Life’s podcast. In this series, we talk to community leaders, share important information about organ, eye and tissue donation, and honor those who have been instrumental in saving lives through the gift of donation. In this episode, we talk with Don Juan from 100.3 FM Cincy's R&B station in Cincinnati.

Resources

EP 102: How Organ, Tissue & Eye Donation Helps The Sick and Injured In Our Community

Wed, 27 Nov 2024 05:00:00 -0500

Community Heroes is a special extension of This Thing Called Life’s podcast. In this series, we talk to community leaders, share important information about organ and tissue donation, and honor those who have been instrumental in saving lives through the gift of donation. In this episode, we talk with Don Juan from 100.3 FM Cincy's R&B station in Cincinnati.

Resources

EP 101: Heartfelt Care: Dr Bonomo Explains The Vision For A Holistic Donor Care Unit Within The New UCMC ICU

Tue, 19 Nov 2024 05:00:00 -0500

Welcome to today’s episode of This Thing Called Life, where we delve into the ever-evolving care plan of organ, eye, and tissue donation. In this episode, we’re joined by Andi Johnson and Dr. Jordan Bonomo to explore a key recommendation from the 2021 National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine (NASEM) report aimed at transforming organ donation and transplantation practices to create a more equitable system. Dr. Bonomo shares insights into a groundbreaking initiative—the establishment of a donor care unit within UCMC’s new Flex ICU. This innovative, first-of-its-kind model is designed to improve organ donation outcomes by providing comprehensive, compassionate care to both donors and their families. Tune in for this important conversation on enhancing the donor experience and advancing the future of organ donation.

Episode Highlights:

Introducing Dr. Jordan Bonomo. He is a physician at the University of Cincinnati Medical Center. He's the Medical Director of the flex ICU and a professor of Emergency Medicine, neurology, neurosurgery, and neurocritical care. He is also the attending physician for anesthesia, critical care, and ECMO, and he's the medical director for donor management, for Network For Hope, formerly Life Center.
Dr. Bonomo explains the long-term development of the Flex ICU, emphasizing its multifaceted purpose to serve critically ill patients and enhance organ donation capacity.
The Flex ICU aims to provide specialized care for organ donors, improving the yield and survival rate of donated organs.
Specialized units can focus on the needs of the donor from a physiological standpoint and the needs of the family from an emotional standpoint. This aims to provide a much more synchronized environment and holistic care for the families and adhere to the donor wishes.
All the staff are fully trained and they're vetted and vested at the same time in the process of donation. The purpose is to have the best donor care unit available anywhere in the country.
The unit is staffed 24/7 by dedicated teams to support the mission of Network for Hope.
The unit is limited to donors who have been declared dead by neurologic criteria. Note that in the month of October, the first month of the launch of Flex ICU, there were zero patients declared brain dead in the region.
Dr. Bonomo explains the intentional design of the unit to accommodate donor families, offering them the option to be with their loved ones or to step back as needed.
The Flex ICU aims to respect the wishes of donors and families, facilitating their involvement in the donation process.
Dr. Bonomo discusses the potential impact of the Flex ICU on organ donation
The goal is to optimize the process for donors, families, and organ recipients, balancing the need for timely transplantation with the potential for increased donation.
Andi adds that the DCU, which is housed within the flex ICU, has been discussed as a key part of the flex ICU with providers, nurses, and physicians who will be working in this unit.
The team is committed to doing right by donors, recognizing the privilege and obligation that comes with their role.
The Flex ICU has attracted dedicated professionals who are passionate about improving organ donation and transplantation.
The process of establishing the unit has been lengthy, involving multiple stakeholders and legal considerations.
He shares that this is an organ procurement organization initiative that really is somewhat independent of the healthcare system.
The belief that donation can bring healing and good from tragedy has been a driving force for Dr. Bonomo.
Dr. Bonomo has a strong foundation in bioethics, having earned his undergraduate degree in the field. Throughout his career, organ donation has been a central focus of his work in biomedical ethics.
Dr. Bonomo invites listeners to ask questions and seek education about the organ donation process.
The importance of accurate information and understanding the process is important for effective collaboration and support.

3 Key Points:

Dr. Bonomo explains the long-term development of the Flex ICU, emphasizing its multifaceted purpose to serve critically ill patients and enhance organ donation capacity. The Flex ICU aims to provide specialized care for organ donors, improving the yield and survival rate of donated organs.
The unit is limited to donors who have been declared dead by neurologic criteria. So brain dead donors, and brain dead vernacular term death by neurologic criteria. Dr. Bonomo explains the intentional design of the unit to accommodate donor families, offering them the option to be with their loved ones or to step back as needed.
The Flex ICU has attracted dedicated professionals who are passionate about improving organ donation and transplantation. The team is committed to doing right by donors, recognizing the privilege and obligation that comes with their role.

Tweetable Quotes:

“Dr shutter explained to me that we do our best to save them, but when you can't, your obligation doesn't end, and the opportunity to donate is an absolute good when done well…” - Dr. Bonomo
“So the the flex ICU has been in design and development for a really long time, I mean, north of 15 years, and we've had fits and starts, and we finally were able to construct it…” - Dr. Bonomo
“We have teams that are dedicated to supporting the mission and network for hope, formerly Life Center…” - Dr. Bonomo
“I think every family is interested in knowing that their loved one is well cared for and that their wishes are being respected.” - Dr. Bonomo

Resources:

EP 100: Network For Hope Community Breakfast - An Annual Event Celebrating Those Impacted By, And Community Advocates For, Organ, Tissue & Eye Donation

Tue, 12 Nov 2024 08:58:11 -0500

Resources:

EP 99: Community Heroes - Gratitude From Those Affected By Organ, Tissue, and Eye Donation

Tue, 05 Nov 2024 05:00:00 -0500

Community Heroes is a special extension of This Thing Called Life’s podcast. In this series, we talk to community leaders, share important information about Organ, Tissue, and Eye donation, and honor those who have been instrumental in saving lives through the gift of donation.

Resources:

EP 98: Breath of Hope: Navigating the double lung transplant journey

Tue, 29 Oct 2024 05:00:00 -0400

Welcome to today’s episode of This Thing Called Life, where we explore the evolving landscape of organ, tissue, and eye donation. Join us as we chat with Andi Johnson, featuring Jennie Wright, a double lung transplant recipient, and her daughter, Siri Imanin.

Jennie, diagnosed with sarcoidosis and pulmonary hypertension, waited a year to be listed for a transplant and another two years to receive the lungs. She recounts the challenges, including antibiotic-resistant infections and the emotional toll on her family. Siri shares how her mother's journey influenced her music and activism, emphasizing the importance of organ donation education in the Black community. They discuss the need for proactive health awareness and the impact of supportive networks on their recovery.

Episode Highlights:

Andi Johnson introduces the mother-daughter duo Jennie Wright and Siri Imani, and asks Jennie to share her transplant journey
Jennie shared that she had sarcoidosis, and as a result, her lungs were severely damaged, which caused pulmonary hypertension. So before the donation, she had a backpack that had oxygen and a fanny pack that had a heart pump.
It took a year to get Jennie listed and two years before she got her transplant
Jennie recounts the emotional and physical challenges, including contracting antibiotic-resistant infections and the decision to postpone the transplant due to her condition.
Andi asks about the support journey for both mother and daughter
Siri, Jennie’s daughter answers that she was happy once everything was settled because she recalls the long period where her mother’s life felt limited and the journey they had to go through in organ donation.
Andi asks Siri, who is an artist, creator, activist, & cultivator, how the journey influences her music and the work that she does from a creative standpoint.
Siri answers that it influenced everything and that she grabs inspiration from her mother and grandmother in every way. Siri shares that when they first got the diagnosis, she documented and made music about it.
Andi asks Siri to share her favorite memory with her grandmother
Andi asks what they would like to share with others, particularly in the black community, after just living through this experience.
Siri shares her personal journey of overcoming misinformation and distrust, emphasizing the need for education and awareness.
Andi questions what they would like to say to their donor family.
Jennie expresses her deep gratitude to the donor family for their selflessness and the opportunity to continue living.
Jennie and Siri discuss the activities and experiences they can now enjoy, such as walking and attending events.

3 Key Points:

Jennie shared that she had sarcoidosis, and as a result, her lungs were severely damaged, which caused pulmonary hypertension. So before the donation, she had a backpack that had oxygen and a fanny pack that had a heart pump. It took a year to get Jennie listed and two years before she got her transplant because there were certain conditions to be met for her to get the transplant.
Siri, Jennie’s daughter recalls the long period where her mother’s life felt limited and the journey they had to go through in organ donation. Siri is also an artist, creator, activist, & cultivator, and she found inspiration in her mother’s journey.
Siri shares her personal journey of overcoming misinformation and distrust, emphasizing the need for education and awareness. The conversation touches on the historical context of distrust in the medical system within the Black community and the importance of updating that narrative.

Tweetable Quotes:

“...with that waiting process, the stars have to be perfectly aligned, because you have to be, to be at the top of the list, you got to be the sickest of the sick, right? But you can't be too sick.” - Andi Johnson
“My faith helped to sustain me, and I feel like God showed me a moment on the other side of this. And I just kind of held on to that.” - Jennie Wright
“I think a lot of our work with people experiencing homelessness just came from the understanding early that life could take you anywhere, no matter what type of person you are, no matter where you come from, you can place where you just need people.” - Siri Imani
“I was always planning on making sure, like, people knew who my mama was, people knew who my grandma was, and really remember because they made it clear who they were in their lifetimes.” - Siri Imani

Resources:

EP 97: ¡LifeCenter ahora es Network For Hope!

Tue, 22 Oct 2024 05:00:00 -0400

Resources:
https://getoffthelist.org/
https://www.networkforhope.org/
https://www.networkforhope.org/about-us/
https://www.facebook.com/NetworkForHopeOPO
https://aopo.org/

EP 96: "Second Chances: A Teen's Journey from Cardiac Arrest to a New Heart"

Tue, 15 Oct 2024 05:00:00 -0400

In this heartfelt episode of This Thing Called Life Podcast, host Andi Johnson sits down with Mario Jarrett and his mother, Kesia, to discuss Mario's incredible journey following a cardiac arrest at just 16 years old. They share the challenges and miracles that shaped his need for a heart transplant, highlighting the unwavering love and support that surrounded him throughout this life-altering experience. Mario's story is a testament to resilience, faith, and the determination to embrace life fully. Join us as they delve into the power of hope and the importance of striving for personal growth every day. Don’t miss this inspiring conversation!

This episode is dedicated to Mario’s Heart Donor Amanda and her family!

Episode Highlights:

Mario Jarrett shares what led to his need for a Heart Transplant.
Mario was a high school Athlete participating in Baseball, Football, and Track & Field.
Mario’s cardiology team thought he suffered mini heart attacks over a period of time without knowing it. Mario indicated he felt like he was just dehydrated.
In May of 2021, while preparing for the state track and field competition, he went into cardiac arrest.
Doctors told Mario and his family that he needed to have a heart transplant.
Mario received a heart transplant at Children's Hospital in Cincinnati on July 26, 2021.
Mario talks about how his Faith helped him get through his Health Crisis.
Kesia Jarrett, Mario’s mom, shares her gratitude for the donor's family, health providers, pastoral family, and all the family and friends who were there for her family.
Kesia reveals that Mario’s Doctors thought his health issues were stemming from Asthma but never expected it was his heart.
Kesia remembered her spiritual nudge to seek a specialist for Mario.
Kesia shares her family's motto to Live life and remember to help others in any way you can.
Andi encourages Mario and Kesia to continue to share their story because it will help many understand the need for Organ Transplants.

3 Key Points:

Even young athletes can experience health conditions, that require the need for an Organ Transplant.
Remember self-care if you are a caregiver for someone going through a health issue.
Share your gifts and create access and awareness of necessary resources for those in need, because, in the blink of an eye, it could be you. And always remember we are meant to be in community with one another.

Tweetable Quotes:

“Step out of your comfort zone every day.” - Mario Jarrett
“I am grateful for every opportunity that we get to spread more light and awareness for individuals to consider being a donor for children like Mario.” - Kesia Jarrett
“I am not bitter. I know it happened for us…not to us.” - Kesia Jarrett
“Stay in the space of understanding that even though you are going through this journey it is not the end… until it is.” - Kesia Jarrett

Resources:

https://getoffthelist.org/

https://www.networkforhope.org/

https://www.networkforhope.org/about-us/

https://www.facebook.com/NetworkForHopeOPO

EP 95: The future of Organ, Tissue, and Eye donation could be changing, With CEO of Gift of Life Michigan and new President of AOPO Dorrie Dils

Tue, 08 Oct 2024 05:00:00 -0400

Welcome to today’s episode of This Thing Called Life, where we explore the evolving landscape of organ, tissue, and eye donation. Join us as we chat with Dorrie Dils, the CEO of Gift of Life Michigan and the new President of the AOPO.

In this episode, Dorrie and Andi Johnson delve into Dorrie’s journey as a female CEO in the transplant field, discussing the challenges and triumphs she’s faced along the way. They’ll also highlight the significant increase in donations following expanded donor criteria, reflect on Dorrie’s impactful speech, and uncover the steps that led her to this pivotal role. Don’t miss this insightful conversation!

Episode Highlights:

Dorrie Dils, president and CEO of Gift Of Life Michigan and the new president of the Association of Organ Procurement Organizations, shares her experience in her inaugural year as president.
Dorrie shares that she has been in this field for 33 years, and there's been tremendous pressure from Congress, the White House, and outside entities to drive donation forward.
There have been concerns due to change in metrics which may cause a rise in decertified OPO’s and what that will do for patients who are waiting and for donors and donor families who wish to donate.
There has been a lot of change but Dorrie shares that she feels better today than ever before.
Dorrie shares that the other big thing, which can't be denied, is just the massive increase in donations after circulatory death or ECD.
Andi asked Dorrie what other positions she has worked in the OPO, Andi wanted to take a minute to have Dorrie share, as a woman in this field, what she did to reach her position of leadership today.
Dorrie shares that she was in Critical Care Nursing, then a Donation Coordinator, and at times needed to be in hospital development, PR and Public Education. Leadership opportunities led her to becoming procurement director then Chief Clinical Officer, before becoming the president, and CEO.
Dorrie talks about her speech and what motivated her to talk about correlating the Barbie Movie (2023) and the need to be perfect in the transplant world.

3 Key Points:

President and CEO of the Gift Of Life Michigan and the new president of the Association of Organ Procurement Organizations, Dorrie Dils shares her experience in her inaugural year of presidency, and the challenges due to changes.
Dorrie shares that the other big thing, which can't be denied, is the massive increase in donation after circulatory death or ECD.
Dorrie shares her years of experience, the steps that she had to take before stepping into her leadership role as a woman CEO, and the role of her deep passion for her working field.

Tweetable Quotes:

“I've been in this field for 33 years, and it truly is the biggest change I've ever seen in our work, and there's been tremendous pressure from Congress and the White House and outside entities to drive donation forward, which has been a good thing.” - Dorrie Dils
“We have in the world, have the best system for organ transplantation. And I think sometimes that gets forgotten.” - Andi Johnson
“But I think the biggest ‘aha’ moment is just how I've always been a hard worker. I've always felt in control of my success.” - Dorrie Dils
“This field has evolved so much, and one of the things that I really hope will be my legacy is the evolution of how women are seen and treated in this field.” - Dorrie Dils

Resources:

https://getoffthelist.org/

https://lifepassiton.org/board-of-directors-leadership/

This Thing Called Life Summer Hiatus: Keep up the spirit of compassion even in our absence!

Tue, 25 Jun 2024 04:00:00 -0400

This Thing Called Life Podcast will be on a summer hiatus returning this fall. The essence of our mission remains. When we return, you can expect more powerful organ, eye, and tissue donation stories from the donors, recipients, families, and frontline healthcare workers.

While we're on this break, if you or someone you know is seeking information about organ, eye, and tissue donation, I strongly encourage you to visit lifepassiton.org. It’s a rich source of resources, stories, and opportunities for you to make a difference.

Remember, every act of giving, no matter how small, has the potential to change a life. Even in our absence, let's continue to spread the word, encourage others to register as donors, and keep the spirit of "This Thing Called Life" alive and thriving.

Thank you for your unwavering support, understanding, and compassion for us and our guests throughout this journey.

Until we meet again, take care of yourselves and each other.

EP 93: The Family Genetics that impacted the Liver health of Tony Burdette

Fri, 07 Jun 2024 06:47:46 -0400

Episode 93: Family Genetics That Lead To The Need For a Liver Transplant For Tony Burdette

On this episode of This Thing Called Life, Andi will speak with Mr. Tony Burdette, who will discuss his involvement with organ donation. Tony's life was saved in August 2019 via a liver transplant. His father passed down a genetic disease called alpha-1 antitrypsin deficiency to him. He was diagnosed in the early 1990s, with symptoms including exhaustion and low platelet counts. Tune in for his great story.

Episode Highlights:

Tony had never given much thought to organ donation, but sometimes it takes a crisis to bring it to the forefront of your mind.
Tony's father underwent a liver transplant in 1997, but it was a painful experience since, after 14 hours, the surgeons came out and told them that he probably wouldn't survive. But, happily, doctors were able to get it to work sufficiently, and he received a second transplant two days later.
The hereditary condition does not impact everyone. They can live perfectly well without it. However, something triggered Tony's liver in early 2019, and his liver began to fail rapidly.
Tony had all the excess fluid in his body, common for people with liver failure. So, he had to have the procedure called a thoracentesis, and over seven months, he had to have that procedure done 52 times.
Tony couldn’t keep having these procedures every other day. So at the University of Cincinnati Medical Center for evaluation at the Transplant clinic, he was put on the list rather quickly around the beginning of May and received his liver on August 3rd, 2019.
It was a quick illness for Tony and a painful one, but thankfully his transplant and the surgery were very successful. He was discharged from the hospital just five days later without any complications.
Tony has a brother. He obviously has the deficiency, but he hasn’t had any symptoms so far. He is under the care of a GI, and they are keeping close tabs on him.
Both of Tony’s children have a deficiency as well, and they are under the care of the liver transplant team at children just out of precaution. The doctors check them every year and have liver scans done to keep a check on them and make sure everything is ok.
About three weeks after Tony’s transplant, he received two letters in the mail from elementary-age girls who wrote him a letter and said that they just wanted to let him know that he had received their mother’s liver.
Tony has studied music at the University of Cincinnati College-Conservatory, one of the greatest in the world, and it is such an honor to be accepted there.
Tony is the artistic director of an organization called Aviva Voices Choral Organization. It’s an organization that he founded, and it provides high-quality community choirs for children, youth, and adults.
The program’s cornerstone is the brand new work for a course and orchestra called the breath of life, and it was written actually before the pandemic.
Often, being open with what you are going through can impact other people. When Tony was going through all this, we posted periodically about this on social media as encouragement for people.
Tony encourages people to not be afraid no matter what you are going through in life. Be open, share, and find people that you can talk to and know that your story can impact people.

3 Key Points:

Alpha-1 antitrypsin is an enzyme and it is created in the liver. The deficiency is that the enzyme gets trapped in the liver and creates a deficiency in the lungs. But when that enzyme gets trapped in the liver, it can cause liver damage.
Tony has spent his whole career serving as a professional musician, singing professionally with opera and orchestras around the country, and doing a lot of conducting with choirs and teaching singing.
Tony’s concert’s date is Saturday, April 30th, the last day of the month and the last day of donating life month. The concert is taking place at Christ Church Cathedral, which is a huge, beautiful venue.

Tweetable Quotes:

“The dichotomy of organ donation is that, a life has to be lost in order to give life, but it’s also a beautiful thing of sacrifice.” - Tony
“You never know how donation and transplantation will work, but Tony thinks it’s probably healing in many ways for both the donor family and the recipient.” – Andi
“One of our core values is to be able to use the power of music to shed light on important things, and when we started this organization, we said that we wanted to have at least one concert once a year.” – Tony
“Creating a free concert is based on the theme of life, the celebration of life, and use it woven together with stories. And the interesting thing about it is to bring awareness and make people aware of the power of organ donation.” – Tony
“We are a core organization, and we specialize in classical music. You don’t have to be affected by classical music or anything because there will be various music.” - Tony

Resources Mentioned:

LifeCenter | Website | Facebook | Instagram | YouTube| Twitter
Andi Johnson website |LinkedIn
Organ Donation Website
https://www.vivavoices.net/about/
https://www.facebook.com/tony.burdette.5

EP 92: Nuevo nombre, misma pasión por salvar vidas

Wed, 29 May 2024 15:04:06 -0400

This episode of TTCL will feature an interview with Julie Luebbers on La Mega. The monthly interview will provide the Spanish Community with information about "Network For Hope" (New Name, formally Life Center, but the same passion for saving lives) and the incredible miracles that happen with Organ, Eye, and Tissue Donation.

EP 91: A Calling To Find A Kidney Donor For All In Need

Tue, 07 May 2024 04:00:00 -0400

A Calling To Find A Kidney Donor For All In Need

Darcy Gibson and Andy Johnson discuss the challenges faced by kidney transplant recipients and their families. In this episode they shared their experiences highlighting the importance of storytelling and education when raising awareness about kidney disease, emphasizing the impact of personal stories on building empathy and creating a sense of community.

Episode Highlights:

Andi Johnson introduces Darci Gibson and the non-profit organization “Off The List”.
“Off the List” aims to support individuals on the kidney transplant list and their families through their journey of waiting for a kidney and provide them with tools and resources to help them share their stories to find donors
Darci shares what motivated her to start this non-profit and the passion behind the project.
Darci tells us that her father needed a Kidney transplant, so she leveraged her background in Marketing to share her family story and get the word out about his need.
Andi shares the importance of taking action and control over one's health, particularly for those with kidney disease or type 2 diabetes.
Darci highlights the need for creating awareness and conversations around these conditions, as people often accept them as their fate without realizing they can take action to prevent or manage them.
Darci shares an "aha" moment about the number of young people calling for kidney transplants, highlighting the need for early education and resource sharing.
Darci offers encouragement to frustrated dialysis patients, emphasizing hope and support from others, including the possibility of finding a living donor.
Andi asks how many families are “Off The List” helping now, and Darcy shares that they are currently working with 80 families.
For those who want to contribute, the easiest way would be to go to their website https://getoffthelist.org/
There are programs through the National Kidney Registry where you can donate a kidney. It's called their advanced Donation Program, and you can designate up to five people in your family should they ever need an organ donation.

3 Key Points:

Darci Gibson tells us about their non-profit organization called ‘Off The List’ and shares how she was pushed into that journey by her own experiences.
She also highlights the importance of early education for the next generation to help prevent kidney disease and to have the strength to believe that they could still take steps to manage it.
Darci offers words of encouragement to a frustrated dialysis patient, emphasizing hope and support from others, including the possibility of finding a living donor.

Tweetable Quotes:

“... You have to share personal information. And that's hard to do, as humans, it's hard to ask people for help. And so I felt like there was a gap there that we could help fill and partner with the transplant centers and dialysis and nephrology to be able to just really dig in and personally with families through that and give them the tools.” - Darci Gibson
“We just want them to know that we're here.” - Darci Gibson
“And it's interesting how when I look back now, all of those things, was preparing me to do this. I mean, there was a reason and a purpose and that's why God was preparing me for this work.” - Darci Gibson

Resources:

https://getoffthelist.org/

https://lifepassiton.org/board-of-directors-leadership/

EP 90: A Wife's Incredible Gift Of Life For Her Husband

Tue, 30 Apr 2024 04:00:00 -0400

In this episode of This Thing Called Life, Andi talks with Marty and Bonnie Garneret. Bonnie is not only Marty’s wife but also his kidney champion. Marty and his wife have been married for 42 years this month, and he says that he married an angel without wings. They share their special journey and you are not going to want to miss it!

EP 89: April Is National Donate Life Month - Creating Awareness Of The Need To Register For Organ, Eye and Tissue Donation

Tue, 23 Apr 2024 04:00:00 -0400

Resources:
https://lifepassiton.org/
https://www.facebook.com/LifeCenterOH
Life Center Phone # 513-558-5555

EP 88: Azul y Verde; Mes de Donar Vida (Green and Blue; Donate Life Month

Tue, 16 Apr 2024 04:00:00 -0400

This episode of TTCL will feature an interview with Julie Luebbers on La Mega. The monthly interview will provide the Spanish Community with information about Life Center and the incredible miracles that happen with Organ, Eye, and Tissue Donation.

EP 87: Coach Darryn Chenault's Kidney Transplant Journey

Tue, 09 Apr 2024 04:00:00 -0400

Coach Darryn Chenault's Kidney Transplant Journey

It's April so it's time to celebrate the tremendous generosity of those who have saved and healed others as organ eye and tissue donors. Today we introduce Coach Darryn Chenault, to share his Transplant Journey and discuss how he broke the cycle of not communicating about Kidney Disease in his family.

Episode Highlights:

Andi introduces Coach Darryn Chenault and how she heard his story on TV
Darryn shares with us his love for being on the field coaching and how one day there was a change in how his body responded to high-energy activities.
Darryn explains how he thought it was a hereditary disease, ignoring the risk and thinking he was young and healthy. Darryn eventually figured he would have to take meds like he had witnessed with his dad, but when he got COVID, it took his Kidney Issues from Stage 2 to Stage 5.
Darryn shares that since he was “That Guy” a police officer, a hero to his family, and someone who works out every morning, he didn’t want to feel like he was not in control.
Going through the struggles of his disease, Darryn had a hard time adjusting to not being “Out and about”, that’s when he decided that he needed a Kidney.
Darryn shared how he was saved by a friend who advertised to the community that he needed a kidney transplant.
Darryn’s nephew, Arryn, called and said he was a match and wanted to donate his kidney.
Darryn’s family encouraged him to receive this gift.
Andi and Darryn discuss the issue that Black families have with higher rates of kidney disease and diabetes, which can lead to the need for dialysis and transplants.
Darryn suggests a lack of education, on the topic, prevents black families from stepping up at the same rate to be living donors.
Darryn's actual birthday is April 9 but now he tells people that his new birthday is June 6, his Transplant Date, because he got more time.
Darryn and Arryn have a unique bond after sharing this kidney transplant experience, inspiring others at family gatherings.
Darryn extends gratitude for his ability to spend time with family and enjoy activities they couldn't do before, while also acknowledging the importance of self-care and education for transplant recipients.

3 Key Points:

Coach Darryn was always there for his players and the community, he was someone everyone looked up to. Being on the receiving side was an adjustment requiring him to have new routines and acceptance of the gift of life.
Coach Darryn shares his wonderful gift of receiving the Kidney Transplant from his nephew Arryn on June 6, and how their bond got even stronger and inspired other people in their family.
Darryn shares gratitude for being able to spend time with family and enjoy activities they couldn't do before, while also acknowledging the importance of self-care and education for transplant recipients.

Tweetable Quotes:

“ Because here I am thinking I'm the guy like I work out in the morning. Good kids are looking up to me. I'm a police officer. I'm a superhero to my kids and my family. so to speak. I just wanted to be that guy.” - Darryn Chenault
“And that's what I learned throughout this whole process that I needed to lean on my family.“ - Darryn Chenault
“I mean, it was it was a tough ride, but we did it.” - Darryn Chenault
“Black families have higher rates of kidney disease and diabetes, which many times lead to needing dialysis and a transplant yet we do not as a community… as a race, we don't step up at the same rate to be living donors as white people” - Andi Johnson
"We gotta open up our heart and let them help us." - Darryn Johnson

Resources:

https://lifepassiton.org/board-of-directors-leadership/

EP 86: World Kidney Day Reminds Us How We Can Help Others In Need.

Tue, 02 Apr 2024 05:49:09 -0400

Resources:
https://lifepassiton.org/
https://www.facebook.com/LifeCenterOH
Life Center Phone # 513-558-5555

EP 85: From Transplant to Triumph: A Nurse's Journey of Healing, Giving Back and Finding Love

Tue, 26 Mar 2024 04:00:00 -0400

From Transplant to Triumph: A Nurse's Journey of Healing, Giving Back and Finding Love

Today we introduce Asia Werner, a transplant recipient and nurse with UC Health. Tune in to hear Asia's incredible story of receiving her heart transplant as an infant, her decision to become a nurse, and her advice for young people who might have to go through an organ transplant journey.

Episode Highlights:

Andi introduces our guest, Asia Werner.
Asia shares that she received her heart transplant on her 1st birthday
Andi asks Asia how she felt after receiving media attention as she grew up
Asia tells us that when she received her heart, it was around Christmas, and that made her story more interesting to the public
Andi asks Asia about her nursing career decision
Asia's love of taking care of others and making people feel better
Asia worked with many spinal cord injury patients, which she sees as a sign of the universe guiding her toward this role.
Andi asks about Asia’s participation in the Transplant Games
The Transplant Games are the Olympics but for the transplant team, so recipients, donors, and even some medical professionals participate.
Asia tells us that everybody who participates in the games goes through the same situations and they can all relate to each other and agree that they shouldn’t take life for granted.
Andi asks Asia what her advice would be for young people going through the same situation as she did
Asia advises people who will go through the transplant journey that they can still do what normal people do but with caution. The most important thing is to make sure that they maintain follow-up doctor visits for check-ups and listen to their doctor's recommendations
Asia reflects on her transplant experience, which provided her the freedom to pursue a normal life, and the importance of donors
Asia expresses gratitude to their donor's family, acknowledging their life-saving decision

3 Key Points:

Asia tells her amazing story about receiving her heart on her 1st birthday, which was close to Christmas, and how it got media attention
Asia explains what got her into nursing. She tells us that at first, she thought she wanted to be a doctor but when she witnessed the difference between the direct impact of patient care nurses provided, it made it more clear what her choice would be.
Asia shares her experience in the Transplant games and how the people participating relate to each other.

Tweetable Quotes:

“So it was really nice having somebody that I knew and was comfortable with because I was able to kind of open up a little more with him.” - Asia Werner
“I know what it's like to have good nurses and I know what kind of a difference a good nurse can make.” - Asia Werner
“Basically, it is the Olympics but for transplant people, so recipients, donors, and even some medical professionals are there.” - Asia Werner
“Everybody is kind of in a similar situation. My theory is that everybody knows how precious life is there and they understand, kind of, just how precious it is and how they don't take life for granted. They don't use their life to be mean to people.” - Asia Werner

Resources:

https://lifepassiton.org/board-of-directors-leadership/

EP 84: Mes de la Concientización del Riñón

Tue, 19 Mar 2024 04:00:00 -0400

EP 83: Todos Podemos Ayudar

Tue, 20 Feb 2024 04:00:00 -0500

EP 82: Heartbeat Chronicles - Pioneering Heart Transplant at Christ Hospital With Guest Terri and George Cecere

Tue, 13 Feb 2024 04:00:00 -0500

Heartbeat Chronicles - Pioneering Heart Transplant at Christ Hospital With Guest Terri and George Cecere

February is American Heart Month, where women are encouraged to focus on their cardiovascular health. In today’s episode, we want to introduce you to George and Terri Cecere. Tune in and hear about their journey together managing heart disease and ultimately a heart transplant as Husband and Wife.

Episode Highlights:

Andi introduces George and Terri Cecere
George and Terri tell the story of how they met and Terri being diagnosed with Hodgkin's Lymphoma early in their relationship
In 2002, Terri was diagnosed with Cardiomyopathy at 43 years old
Terri found a cardiologist with experience in heart failure treatment, which helped manage her condition until the time she needed a heart transplant at age 62
Andi asks about the symptoms of Cardiomyopathy
Terri explains her symptoms and relates them to common heart failure
Terri lived with cardiomyopathy for 17 years, receiving treatment and care from Dr. O'Brien and the advanced heart failure team
Her condition gradually worsened over time, leading to the recommendation of a heart transplant
Terri received a heart transplant at Christ Hospital Health Network, becoming the first recipient of the program
Andi asks Terri about how she feels about all the media attention
Terri shares her story and advocates for heart health awareness with the help of her husband George and Life Center
Terri expresses gratitude to the donor family for giving her the gift of life, acknowledging their difficult decision to donate
Terri also talks about how the reality of having to care for someone with heart disease is challenging and the gift George has been through this journey

3 Key Points:

Terri and George talk about how they thrived through 17 years of Heart Disease
They share their experiences for 17 years leading up to the heart transplant and express gratitude for how they were cared for by their doctor(s) and hospital
Terri now advocates for heart health awareness with the help of her husband George and Life Center

Tweetable Quotes:

“Heart disease is the leading cause of death for women.” - Andi Johnson
“I decided I needed a cardiologist who had experience with heart failure in particular, because it makes a huge difference.” - Terri Cecere
“But I do think that intellectually we knew that at the end of the journey, the heart transplant was possible.” - George Cecere
“Since Terri's transplant, which was, you know, only about 15 months ago, they've completed 19 heart transplants, which is an astounding number considering you know, how new the program is.” - George Cecere
“And there's not a better person to have as your caregiver than George. I mean, he's, he was amazing.” - Terri Cecere

Resources:

https://lifepassiton.org/board-of-directors-leadership/

EP 81: The Impact Of Organ, Eye & Tissue Donation On Our Community

Tue, 06 Feb 2024 04:00:00 -0500

Resources:
https://lifepassiton.org/
https://www.facebook.com/LifeCenterOH
Life Center Phone # 513-558-5555

EP 80: A Guide Through Loss And Transformation, With Kelly Gunnels Valines

Tue, 30 Jan 2024 04:00:00 -0500

A Guide Through Loss And Transformation, With Kelly Gunnels Valines

In today’s episode, we want to introduce you to Kelly Gunnels aka author K.R.V. Gunnels as she discusses her story of advocacy and activism following the murder of a family member in 2017. Through the passing of her brother, she shares the importance of addressing systemic issues affecting black communities and how you can help others through organ donation. Kelly also talks about her book “A Widows Guide” and the inspiration behind it.

Episode Highlights:

Kelly Gunnels shares her story of advocacy and activism following the murder of her brother Reco in 2017.
Reco just renewed his license and when he was asked to be an organ donor, he said yes. Reco’s decision gave Kelly the confidence and comfort to contact Life Center.
When Kelly was asked to speak about stopping gun violence in the community her journey of activism and leadership began.
So often, in the black community, organ donation is not discussed but when Reco died, his family was able to honor his wishes and donate his organs, which helped several people in need.
Kelly recalls the moments when Reco was brought to the ER, and how the hospital staff fought for his life.
Kelly also experienced the loss of her husband which inspired her book; a Widows Guide. Her journey in writing made her recognize something about herself, she writes when she’s in pain.
She recounts her journey through grief after losing her husband suddenly, including an investigation which enhanced her struggle to come to terms with the loss.
Kelly met a fellow author who introduced her to a spiritual mentor, who helped her find faith and surrender to God's plan.

3 Key Points:

Kelly Gunnels talks about the passing of her brother Reco and how the tragedy launched her journey to use her voice and talk about the reality of violence in the community and the importance of organ donation.
She talks about her family’s legacy and how she started writing. The passing of her husband and the difficulty of the situation inspired her to write her book “A Widows Guide”.
Organizing a blood drive and healing after loss.

Tweetable Quotes:

“We're all working to be the best that we can be.” - K. Gunnels
“Everyone's not going to be a match for you. But you have to decide.” - K. Gunnels
“So yes, they will fight for you, even if you sign up to be a donor they will still fight for your life.” - K. Gunnels
“What I recognize about myself, is that I always write when I'm in pain.” - K. Gunnels
“God shows up for us all the time.” - K. Gunnels

Resources:

https://lifepassiton.org/board-of-directors-leadership/

https://www.amazon.com/s?k=widows+guide+journey+through+insanity

Facebook: Kelly Gunnels - https://www.facebook.com/kgunnels

Un nuevo año de donación y DoNation' ?

Tue, 23 Jan 2024 04:00:00 -0500

This episode of This Thing Called Life will feature an interview with Julie Luebbers on La Mega. The monthly interview will provide the Spanish Community with information about Life Center and the incredible miracles that happen with Organ, Eye, and Tissue Donation.

The Four Year Journey Of Waiting For A Kidney Donation

Tue, 16 Jan 2024 04:00:00 -0500

The Four Year Journey Of Waiting For A Kidney Donation

In today’s episode we want to introduce you to Carmelita C Jones. Carmelita discusses how she dealt with the realities of kidney failure, diabetes, high blood pressure, adulting, and why it is important for her to be an advocate for her circumstances. By understanding the real struggles of kidney disease and the symptoms associated she hopes to help the next generation avoid long term damage to the kidneys and help them live a better and healthier life!

Episode Highlights:

Carmelita Jones shares her story of needing a kidney transplant and her passion for giving and loving others
She shares about career changes and medical challenges after a car accident
She talks about her diagnosis and treatment options for Kidney Failure.
Life before the accident, Carmelita knew she had diabetes and high blood pressure.
Carmelita discusses diabetes, the organ transplant waitlist, and the black community.
“Make better choices, eat to live, not just live to eat.”
She points out the importance of teaching the next generation about nutritional value because they risk making the same mistakes as the past generation.
There is a rise in children being diagnosed with diabetes at a much younger ages.
There are more organizations to help with better nutrition, such as fresh fruits and vegetables in grocery stores, cooking classes, community gardens, etc. that could help with the problem.
Carmelita describes her dialysis routine, including early morning appointments and time spent in the bathroom. She also describes how COVID-19 affected her financial situation.
Carmelita shares her struggles with kidney disease and the impact on her daily life, including the importance of regular dialysis treatments and the need for a kidney transplant
Carmelita advocates for normalizing conversations about mental health and wellness in the black community, emphasizing the importance of being open and honest about one's struggles.
She reflects on the importance of a supportive tribe in navigating adulting and its challenges.
She provides contact information for those interested in learning more or donating, emphasizing the anonymous process and the positive impact on donors' lives.

3 Key Points:

Carmelita Jones shares the reality of having Kidney Failure and how she found it out after an accident. She also shares that prior to the accident, she knew she was diabetic and had high blood pressure.
Carmelita discusses a brief connection of the african american history and how we pass on the generational curse of bad choices when it comes to our health.
Carmelita advocates for normalizing conversations about mental health and wellness in the black community, emphasizing the importance of being open and honest about one's struggles

Tweetable Quotes:

“High blood pressure is another major factor. Not to specify one particular group, but you know, African Americans suffer from high blood pressure because of our history literally on slave boats.” - Carmelita Jones
“We need to teach our children first and foremost. So we don't give them our bad habits.” - Carmelita Jones
“If you look at obesity, and our young people, it's off the charts. It's ridiculous. And it's because they're following our habit.” - Carmelita Jones
“Adulting is hard. It requires so much patience. And a lot of times we take that time to take care of ourselves.” - Carmelita Jones

Resources:

https://lifepassiton.org/board-of-directors-leadership/

Christ hospital call Bree @ 513-585-1427 for answers to any questions about the process of kidney donation for Carmelita

Facebook: Carmelita C. Jones - https://www.facebook.com/carmelita.c.jones

Todos Pueden Ser Donantes

Tue, 23 May 2023 04:00:00 -0400

Todos Pueden Ser Donantes

During this episode of This Thing Called Life, host Andi Johnson speaks with Courtney Schapier, a liver donor, the sister of a liver recipient, and one of the Organ Donation Coordinators at LifeCenter. Upon learning about her brother’s need for a liver, Courtney made the incredibly brave decision to make a difference. Her story is simply amazing!

Episode Highlights:

Courtney has been an Organ Donation Coordinator at LifeCenter for the past 6-7 years.
Donation Coordinators handle the medical management and evaluation for organ donors.
Amongst other responsibilities, Courtney plays a large part in matching organs to donors.
Sometimes, organ donation acts as the silver lining to families that are going through an incredibly hard time.
Donation coordination is a 24-hour job because donation does not run on a 9-5 schedule.
From the time that a case opens to the time it closes, Courtney is on the clock for 36 hours.
Courtney uses CrossFit and a great support system as outlets for the high stress levels of this job.
With such a high-stress job, it’s no surprise that there is a high level of turnover.
There have been times where the stress of the job has made Courtney question her desire to be here.
COVID brought everything to a screeching halt when it first exploded back in March.
The sheer amount of unknown information has made the ongoing global pandemic that much scarier.
Things have finally begun to get back to normal, meaning more lives are being saved via organ donation.
In 2016, Courtney’s brother discovered a huge mass on his liver that required a transplant.
Unfortunately, Courtney lost her father when she was only 2 months old, so her brother acted as a father to her.
Courtney was informed that she was a donor match for her brother while supporting a family that was pulling life-support.
The weight of the situation started to feel heavy when Courtney sat on the pre-op table.
Sitting outside the OR doors on the pre-op table, Courtney was rolled back for surgery after only 20 or 30 minutes.
There were a handful of signs that something was wrong with Courtney’s brother’s liver long before the doctors caught it.
After everything was said and done, it took a 10-hour procedure for Courtney to donate over half of her liver.
The first thing that Courtney can remember is getting sick immediately after surgery.
Courtney finally got to see her brother when she was transferred to the ICU.
It was a complete shift in lifestyle for Courtney from the moment that she found out she was a donor match for her brother.
Finding living liver donors is more rare than finding living kidney donors.
Both Courtney and her brother fully recovered and are as healthy as they can be today.
TX Jet was kind enough to donate its services to fly Courtney and her family out for surgery.
After her donation, Courtney was sure that she was at the right job at LifeCenter.
Courtney was comforted by the knowledge that everything in her life made her the perfect donor for her brother.
This year, Courtney is focusing on being more present when she is with loved ones.
The amazing thing about donation and transplantation is the opportunity to potentially save a life.

3 Key Points:

Organ Donation Coordinators manage everything from the moment a donor decides to donate, to the time that the organ is sent to its recipient.
It takes a very special person to not only manage the responsibilities of being a Donation Coordinator, but also the rollercoaster of emotions that come with the job.
Courtney donated just over 50% of her own liver, which was oversized, to begin with, to save her brother’s life.

Resources Mentioned:

LifeCenter (website) (Facebook) (Instagram) (YouTube) (Twitter)
Andi Johnson (website) (LinkedIn)
TX Jet (website)

May 2023 Appreciation and Community Impact Events - EP 76 Mini

Tue, 16 May 2023 05:00:00 -0400

Episode 76: MAY 2023 Appreciation and Community Impact Events

It’s been a minute! April was National Donate Month, and we honored and celebrated our donor heroes across the region. Now sliding into May, we extend our gratitude to nurses and teachers, Happy National Nurses Week, National Transplant Nurses Week, and National Teacher Appreciation Week!

Episode Highlights:

Life Center partnered with Hospitals across the region to honor donors, healthcare teams, and recipients.
They also celebrated the donor heroes from 2022 with the Anual Donor Family Recognition ceremony.
Life Center also partnered with the Center For Closing the Health Gap to discuss generational health and the Black Community at the Annual Health Expo
A partnership with the Cincinnati Reds also kicked off by honoring a donor hero
Sliding into May, we extend our gratitude to nurses and teachers, Happy National Nurses Week, National Transplant Nurses Week, and National Teacher Appreciation week!
103,871 Men, Women, and Children need life-saving organ transplants, and 21 people will die because what they need isn’t available.
Learn the importance of registering to be a donor, and why it matters!

3 Key Points:

Life Center partnered across the Region to honor and celebrate donors, healthcare teams, and recipients.
May will be a month of gratitude towards Nurses and Teachers!
We must learn the importance of registering as a donor, why it matters, and the truth about organ donation.

Tweetable Quotes:

“Today, 103,871 Men, Women, and Children need life-saving organ transplants, and 21 people will die because the organ they need isn’t available.” - Andi
“Take a moment to learn why donation matters, and why registering to be a donor absolutely matters.” - Andi

Resources:

https://lifepassiton.org/board-of-directors-leadership/

Episode 75: A Fifteen-year-old’s Decision to Become an Organ Donor and the Impact on his Family

Tue, 02 May 2023 05:00:00 -0400

On this episode of This Thing Called Life, Andi Johnson speaks with Aimee Cordrey. She will be sharing the gift of life that her son, Nicholas has given to many recipients and how influenced others to do the same. She will also be reflecting some light upon the life of her son and sharing her story of grief and pathway to healing. Tune in now for this special story.

Episode Highlights:

Aimee Cordrey is married to Darren Cordray. They have been married for over 20 years and been together for a little bit longer than that. They met in college, and they have two sons Richard, a 19 year old, and Nick, who would be 17, but he is forever 15. Both of them are athletes, very different yet very similar in their interests and just how they approach life.
In the middle of the pandemic Aimee and her family had been quarantined like everyone else for quite some time. School had just ended. Nick had just finished freshman year of high school and it was Memorial Day. Nick and Aimee went shopping that day to get some hamburgers and some vegetables and different things to grill out.
Nick hadn't seen his friends because of quarantine. Aimee allowed him to go meet some of his friends at a local ice cream shop that was within walking distance of their house because one of his best friends was leaving for vacation the next day and she was going to be gone for two weeks.
Nick decided to take a shower at night. All of a sudden Aimee heard the water go on and then they heard some really heavy, intense breathing, they were shocked. They thought it was our other son Richard, playing video games. She went to the basement, but it was not Richard, it was Nick.
Nick loved life and he approached everything with this attitude of – "I can do it." His family really believed he was going to be okay and pull through.
Aimee explains how and when they went about the conversation of Nick being an orgn donor. The hospital staff acknowledged all the protocols that they have in place, and they contacted Life Center.
Nick had not yet been able to get his temps. He would have been eligible for them. The month that everything happened, he had actually registered as an organ donor.
The letter that Aimee received said that Nick saved five people with seven organs, and probably impacted 40 to 50 others. The only thing Nick was unable to donate was his intestines, which they initially believed he was going to be able to do until they started doing the surgery.
Aimee shares her thoughts on what it all meant to her, Darren and Richard to know that Nick helped so many people by donating his organs.
“Learning that sometimes bad things happen to good people and learning to be ok with that and it is not even being ok with it, it's just accepting it- that is one piece of it. The donation piece brings that pride.” -Aimee
Aimee thinks that being able to talk about organ donation enables her to talk about Nick.
Andi feels like Aimee is doing so much just to help people understand the magnitude of the donation and its impact.
Andi asks Aimee about the project that she is working on at his school in his honor.
One of Nick's friends, Grayson, started a change.org petition. He wanted to have the school board name the soccer field after Nick.
There isn't a lesson here when it comes to losing a son. The only lesson that Aimee has learned is that bad things happen to good people, and she has learned that when you encounter a loss like this you integrate it into your life, you don't overcome it.
Grief is something that has stages and some stages may be re-visited at times. It is ongoing.
Nick loved everything. All of the time he was researching, reading to understand deeply, caring deeply, everything was with passion, everything was with full intent. He didn't do anything without truly caring about it. If he was gonna do it, he was doing it 100% all in and that's what Nick was, and he is.

3 Key Points:

Nick had a brain aneurysm that his family didn't know about. Nick did not complain of a headache that day. He didn't have any signs of anything that day. He had an amazing day, and it was that quick. They called 911. They were very quick, they took him to the hospital, his aneurysm ruptured three times. At the hospital, they did surgery on him and for 9 days his family thought Nick was going to make it.
Aimee tells the listeners how Nick was able to help other people through the gift of life that he was able to give.
Each one of us is different. Unique as people, Aimee thinks everyone's grief is very unique. She needed to be around other people. Aimee thinks that the donor family council is amazing. They are a source of strength. They are unshakable.

Resources Mentioned:

LifeCenter | Website | Facebook | Instagram | YouTube| Twitter
Andi Johnson website |LinkedIn
Organ Donation Website

Episode 74: The Incredible Journey Of Receiving A Kidney

Tue, 25 Apr 2023 04:00:00 -0400

Episode 74: The Incredible Journey Of Receiving A Kidney

On this episode of This Thing Called Life, Andi is going to talk to Marty and Bonnie Garneret. Bonnie is not only Marty’s wife but his kidney champion also. Marty and his wife have been married for 41 years this month, and he says that has married an angel without wings. He shares his special journey; You don’t want to miss it!

Episode Highlights:

There are two types of diabetes, type one, which you are born with, and in that, your body does not produce any insulin, so you are on insulin shots from the time you are born. The second type comes from heredity, bad eating, lack of exercise, or all the bad stuff you do - lifestyle factors.
If the doctor says you are prediabetic, that means your sugar is running high regularly, and it is destroying your body. So, you need to get to a specialist or endocrinologist.
It is not a disease to be taken lightly because it leads to chronic kidney disease, which Marty has. If you don’t pay enough attention to it, then you are graded on a scale of stage one to stage five transplant material, and that is where Marty is at 70 years of age.
When you first start out with kidney disease, you are one of about 100 to 150,000 people on a list of possible recipients. Marty is lucky enough to meet a gal named Darcy Gibson, who has a foundation, a charitable organization, called Off The List, inc.
To go through initial testing is a rigorous process. There are three different people you meet with. One is a social worker to check your mental capacity, the second is a nutritionist to manage your diet, and the third is a team of doctors and nurses that help you through tests.
To get off the list, you have to receive a donor’s kidney, and Bonnie has done this through Facebook, through yard signs, emails, and extensive, unbelievable work this woman has done on Marty’s behalf.
The list that Marty is talking about is a list to receive a deceased donor kidney. To get a living donor kidney, you must find someone willing to donate, a friend, a relative, or just a generous donor, and it is tough.
It is a completely anonymous process, as someone is tested on your behalf. You would never know that because hospitals take that very seriously, and they want to ensure that the person who is doing this wants to do it for the right reasons and that there is no sense of pressure.
Bonnie decided that UPPO would be perfect because people would have to ask a question and start the conversation. What is UPPO, or who is UPPO? Life for UPPO is a Facebook page, and we are working with Christ Hospital, and Trisha is the donor coordinator.
The typical diabetic signs that Marty paid no attention to was he slept 12 hours and felt like he didn’t sleep 5 minutes. He drank unbelievable amounts of liquid, whether it be coffee, pop, water, and he lost a lot of weight.
The diet you have to be on when looking for a kidney is extremely difficult. There are many things to avoid and take care of.
There are two categories of people when it comes to the conversation about being a living donor. We need to do a better job of filling the gap of information and helping people understand this is something they can do.
Children’s hospitals prefer to give it to children, and they should. But if something happened and there aren’t any children who would need it, then the adult on that list would receive a kidney.
One of Marty’s dreams has always been that he would like to start in Maine and eat lobster all the way down the East Coast until they have to get an oversized bus to take him home.
Marty looks good on the outside, but he’s not good on the inside, and that's what a lot of people don’t understand because he looks great. But they don’t understand that the kidney function is still going down, and you can’t see that.
If people understood how grateful recipients were, it would cause a lot more people to donate because they are heroes and become angels without wings.
Bonnie has read a lot on the national kidney Instagram page and other places that donors live longer than people who have not donated.

3 Key Points:

Marty and Bonnie tell the listeners about the Facebook page they set up for people. The Facebook page is called life for UPPO. UPPO is Marty just because their oldest grandson when he was very young, can’t say Grandpa, and he came out with UPPO.
Marty doesn’t think people understand how serious this disease is, and it will kill you. Many thousands of people die every day from kidney failure, and several things work against you.
Marty and Bonnie talk about the misconception surrounding kidney donation.

Resources Mentioned:

LifeCenter | Website | Facebook | Instagram | YouTube| Twitter
Andi Johnson website |LinkedIn
Organ Donation Website
https://www.facebook.com/life4uppo
Tricia Monson Christ Hospital Donor Coordinator 513-585-1440
Marty and Bonnie Garneret
Off the list inc, Darci Gibson

Episode 73: Why Is Kidney Disease So Prevalent In The African American Community

Tue, 18 Apr 2023 17:33:14 -0400

On this episode of This Thing Called Life Podcast, host Andi Johnson is going to talk to Shelly Sherman and Stephanie Jackson. They are discussing kidney health and an exciting new project that is being launched to shed light on kidney disease as well as prevention. No doctor or medical expert will kill you for your organs; In fact, no medical professional is aware of your donor status until your death is declared. Tune in for more information!

Episode Highlights:

Host Andi Johnson has a few big asks. Will you join us and be a part of this interconnected life sustaining community by registering to be an organ, eye, and tissue donor? Will you make the commitment to become more educated about living donation and championing the donation cause?
Shelly is associated with the Cincinnati, Ohito chapter of The Links, Incorporated and she served as the Health and Human Services Facet Committee chair.
The Ohio central chapter was granted an award by Baxter International for increasing the awareness of kidney health in the communities in which Shelly lives and primarily in the African American community.
What is GFR? Shelly has been working hard in the community to make sure people know where they are regarding their GFR, which lets them know how well their kidneys are functioning and what they can do to maintain kidney health.
The Links organization was founded in 1946 on the premise of friendship, and Shelly wants to uplift and elevate people by providing health information.
Stephanie and Shelly first met through collaboration with The Center For Closing the Health Gap.
Shelly had goals in mind based on the grant they received regarding the number of people that they needed to touch and the number of community partnerships that they needed to do.
Shelly and Stephaine share the experiences they have had with training sessions and connecting in the community. They hope people will continue to listen to the podcast and continue doing some things and spreading the word in their communities.
When people are ill, you can see it on their skin and eyes. You can notice the effects of kidney and liver illness on the skin and other body systems.
Garlic is great for decreasing inflammation; It has Vitamin C, Vitamin B6, and Manganese, a great alternative for your seasoning. If you want to decrease your psyllium, you can add more garlic, which is great for your heart and your kidney.
The one thing is to avoid canned and packaged chicken breast because those can contain sodium and other preservatives.
Raising awareness and making small changes goes such a long way in promoting healthier lifestyles. There is a great ripple effect too when you share information like this with those in your family and circles.

3 Key Points:

Blueberries are an important food for kidney patients. They serve as antioxidants and are very good for healing. In addition, they help your body to increase urination.
People talk about dialysis and transplant, and these are things that you want to avoid. By opting for a healthier lifestyle and changes in the food you eat, you can do that.
There are so many ways you can just move your body, and Stephanie always tells people 15 to 20 minutes is sufficient. Make sure that your body is doing something that it doesn’t do every day.

Tweetable Quotes:

“Whatever we are putting in our body, the body is going to use, and if we don’t put in things that our body can use, then our body is not going to be able to function the way it’s supposed to.” – Stephaine
“Your body does need fat but only healthy fats because it helps everything stay lubricated and work well in all facets.” – Stephaine
“So much of what happens to us is preventable, and a lot of it is due to a lack of information that is sometimes missed in our community.” – Shelly
“Sometimes, we do have a mistrust of the medical systems, and we don’t get some of the information that we need to have, but we can share it and start to educate each other.” - Shelly

Resources Mentioned:

Community Heroes- El mes nacional de Done Vida- EP 50

Wed, 12 Apr 2023 09:29:17 -0400

Community Heroes is a special extension of This Thing Called Life’s podcast. In this series we talk to community leaders, share important information about organ and tissue donation and honor those who have been instrumental in saving lives through the gift of donation.

Resources:

Life Center Phone # 513-558-5555

Episode 72: It’s National Donate Life Month, Lets Make A Difference For Those In Need!

Wed, 05 Apr 2023 19:02:56 -0400

Episode 71: National Kidney Month with Mike McConnell

Tue, 28 Mar 2023 05:51:14 -0400

March is National Kidney Month. On this episode of This Thing Called Life, host Andi Johnson talks with Mike McConnell about kidney health and community outreach.

Resources:

https://lifepassiton.org/board-of-directors-leadership/

https://closingthehealthgap.org/

Community Heroes- Riñónes y Mujeres Hispanas En Marzo-EP 49

Tue, 21 Mar 2023 04:00:00 -0400

Resources:

https://lifepassiton.org/

https://www.facebook.com/LifeCenterOH

https://www.instagram.com/lifecentercincy/

https://www.youtube.com/user/LifeCenterOH

https://twitter.com/LifeCenterCincy

Episode 70: Kidney Donor’s Health And Serendipitous Career Path, Post Surgery With Brett Milam

Tue, 14 Mar 2023 05:57:11 -0400

March is National Kidney Month. On this episode of This Thing Called Life, host Andi Johnson talks with someone who saw a vital need and acted on it in regards to living kidney donation, Brett Milam. Tune in to hear his journey as a living kidney donor.

Episode Highlights:

Andi previews National Kidney Month and the importance of education. Kidney disease, diabetes is often referred to as the silent killer.
There are more than 37 million Americans who have Kidney disease and high blood pressure which often leads to kidney failure.
More than 90,000 people are waiting for a life-saving kidney transplant.
To get more information about kidney health and prevention, please visit lifepassiton.org or nkf.org today.
Guest, Brett Milam, shares when he first thought about kidney donation. He saw a fellow journalist through Instagram who made it seem really doable.
Andi asks Brett to talk about the process to become a donor. He went through UC Medical Center.
Brett says you don't pay anything to be a living donor and the commitment was not overwhelming. The Medical Center even reimbursed his parking tickets.
Andi talks about the safeguards in place for routes of discrimination.
How long do you need to be off work?
Brett shares what it feels like when your organs are reconfiguring after surgery.
Brett has visited dialysis centers and talks about what it is like.
What if your family needs a kidney after you have previously donated?
The fall after his surgery he went skydiving for the second time in his life. He talks about the drawal to do it.
He overcame his fear of public speaking to champion this cause and in 2022, Brett decided to work for Life Center.
Andi asks Brett to talk about mental health. He had a personal journey with depression that he navigated through and what helped him overcome.
What is talk therapy?
If you are struggling with mental health, Brett has advice for you. He said do not fear telling your primary care physician that you are struggling mentally. You may have to go through different therapists and/or medications but it is very worth it.
Andi talks about recognizing managing new normal after covid and how Life Center decided to offer counseling to their staff.
Brett loves to read. He talks about what he enjoys reading. He recently read Stranger In The Woods.
Brett did not know who his donor recipient was but it was still such a fulfilling experience.
Andi reminds listeners that there are 103,933 men women and children who need life saving organ transplants. What can you do to help?

3 Key Points:

March is National Kidney Month. Many Americans have kidney disease and high blood pressure which often leads to kidney failure which then in turn requires dialysis or kidney transplant. It is important to be educated to be out in front of the disease in prevention.
Brett Milam shares that it was a simple calculation for him to decide to be a living kidney donor.
Life Center’s mission and purpose drew Brett in. He thought he would work in journalism forever until a perfect turn of events led him to use his skills for this specific organization.

Resources: https://lifepassiton.org/ https://lifepassiton.org/board-of-directors-leadership/ https://www.facebook.com/LifeCenterOH https://www.youtube.com/user/LifeCenterOH https://aopo.org/

Episode 69: What You Need To Know About Kidney Disease?

Tue, 07 Mar 2023 16:50:55 -0500

On this episode of This Thing Called Life, host Andi Johnson highlights March as National Kidney Month. Kidney disease is often referred to as the “silent killer” because so many people have experienced it and complications that cause it without knowing it for an extended period of time. Tune in so you can be educated about this important topic and proactive with your own health.

Episode Highlights:

Do you know what Kidney health is?
Do you understand your family history as it relates to kidney disease?
Andi says, “More than 37 million Americans have kidney disease, high blood pressure, and diabetes, all of which lead to kidney failure often.” What does that mean?
More than 90,000 people in the US are waiting for life saving kidney transplants.
Andi lists the signs of kidney disease and encourages the listeners to visit nkf.org for more information.
How can you create generational health?
In Cincinnati, LifeCenter is working with The Links Incorporated and Closing The Health Gap and will be holding their first ever forum on this issue of diabetes and kidney disease.
Andi says they have seen an increase in children being diagnosed with type 2 diabetes and that is the wrong way to be trending.
Andi says the partnership forum will open the conversation for physicians and others who have been through the experience so that everyone can be educated to take steps they need to for generational health.
You can find out more about Closing the Health Gap at https://closingthehealthgap.org/
There will be a lot more content coming on the podcast this year. For previous episodes visit https://lifepassiton.org/

Tweetable Quotes:

“More than 37 million Americans have kidney disease, high blood pressure, and diabetes, all of which lead to kidney failure often.” -Andi
“More than 90,000 people in our country are waiting for life saving kidney transplants.” -Andi
“This is a great month to start the conversation about kidney health and understand if this may impact you.” -Andi

Resources:

https://www.kidney.org/

https://lifepassiton.org/board-of-directors-leadership/

Episode 68: Role Of Executive Director For An OPO, With Barry Massa

Tue, 28 Feb 2023 04:00:00 -0500

On this episode of This Thing Called Life, host Andi Johnson finishes up the series of exploring all the parts and roles in the donation process at the OPO. There is one final position to cover, the Executive Director of Life Center, held by Barry Massa. He is also President of the Association of Organ Procurement Organizations (AOPO). Tune in.

Episode Highlights:

Donation truly takes a community. Andi reviews how many entities come together to make everything happen.
Barry Massa is the Executive Director of Life Center and has had that position since June of last year.
Life Center is part of 56 Organ Procurement Centers across the United States; 48 of those are members of the Association of Organ Procurement Organizations (AOPO). Barry explains what AOPO does.
Andi asks why some centers aren’t a part of AOPO.
Andi asks Barry what some of his biggest challenges are.
“The whole donation and transplantation system has been under the microscope as of late”, says Barry.
Barry talks about their positive outlook and taking on the focus to a more proactive stance and educating where misinformation is happening.
The National Academy of Science, Engineering, and Medicine was asked by Congress to do a research study on the entirety of the donation and transplantation system which was reported in February 2022. Barry talks about the results
Some people who need to be on the transplant list are not because of one reason or another. Barry explains.
An executive order by former President Trump addressing issues with transplants and encouraging more transplants to occur stirred the change. Barry said it started as a Kidney Health Initiative.
Barry talks about the trends over the last 5 years. He also talks about taking a systematic approach to ensure that organs are used and don’t have to be discarded.
What changes do hospitals need to have?
What government agencies need to come together to dialogue more change?
What does donation and transplantation look like in the next 5 years?
Andi asks Barry to share the biggest misconceptions he hears.
Andy defines Barry as a bridge builder who desires to do the very best he can to improve everything.

3 Key Points:

Barry explains how AOPO works and the beauty of working together to save lives.
Every OPO has looked to see what they can do better. Organ donations and organs transplanted have gone up over the last 5 years and many are working to continue that.
In 5 years, Barry envisions a much more cohesive donation and transplantation system that allows more people to get transplanted.

Resources:

https://lifepassiton.org/board-of-directors-leadership/

Community Heroes: El mes del corazon y la historia negra- EP 48

Tue, 21 Feb 2023 04:00:00 -0500

Resources:
https://lifepassiton.org/
https://www.facebook.com/LifeCenterOH
Life Center Phone # 513-558-5555

Episode 67: The Gift Of Receiving A Heart Transplant With Donna Jones Baker

Tue, 14 Feb 2023 04:00:00 -0500

During this episode of This Thing Called Life podcast, host Andi Johnson speaks with Donna Jones Baker who recently received the gift of life through the donation of a kidney and a heart. Donna has learned to appreciate organ donation and its ability to help save so many lives!

Episode Highlights:

February 14th is National Donor Day, a day to honor all those who have been affected by organ donation.
Donna was originally born in Paducah, Kentucky and went to Murray State University.
After getting married, Donna lived in Baltimore for 22 years before moving to Cincinnati to become the CEO of The Urban League.
Had it not been for the heart attack that she suffered, Donna believes she would still be at The Urban League.
Initially, Donna received a Z-pack for what she thought to be a cold or a flu.
Donna was able to make it to the hospital after suffering from a heart attack where she was equipped with an LVAD.
Doctors wanted to give Donna a heart transplant, but couldn’t because they discovered cancer on her kidney.
After doctors removed her kidney, Donna was placed on the transplant list for a new heart and kidney.
According to the numbers, people of color suffer disproportionately from the effects of COVID.
The months between her kidney removal and kidney/heart transplant were very scary for Donna.
Doctors feared that Donna’s remaining kidney would not be able to support her and that she would have to go on dialysis.
The same doctor that fixed Donna’s LVAD performed her heart and kidney transplant.
Donna had to be careful with the medications that she took because the heart and kidney don’t want the same things.
With the help of her husband, Greg, Donna was able to make it through a transplant during a pandemic.
Donna advises those going through a similar situation to try not to think about it all the time.
The gifts of life and grandchildren keep Donna grateful for every day that she opens her eyes.
Through the pandemic, Donna has remained in touch with her children and grandchildren via Zoom.
Working in organ donation is a tough job, but one that saves many lives.
Donna hopes to schedule a trip to Baltimore to visit her grandchildren once the pandemic is over.
Right now, there are over 100,000 people in need of a life-saving transplant surgery.

3 Key Points:

After initially thinking she had the flu, Donna agreed to host a round table event on Friday the 13th. That following Sunday, she suffered a heart attack from Giant Cell Myocarditis.
Many African Americans decline to become organ donors out of a fear that if someone of note needed an organ, doctors would take it from them without consideration for their lives.
To stay in touch and grow with her family members, Donna has started a Sunday night Zoom Bible study.

Resources Mentioned:

LifeCenter (website) (Facebook) (Instagram) (YouTube) (Twitter)
Andi Johnson (website) (LinkedIn)
Donna’s Story
Urban League Of Greater Southwestern Ohio

Episode 66: What does The Chief Administration Officer Do Within An OPO (Organ Procurement Organization)?

Tue, 07 Feb 2023 04:00:00 -0500

On this episode of This Thing Called Life, host Andi Johnson finishes up the series of exploring all the parts and roles in the donation process at the OPO. Many different entities come together to make it all possible. Today, Tracie Shelton, the Chief Administration Officer joins the show to share about her role in the organization. Tune in!

Episode Highlights:

Andi reviews the departments that she has spoken with over this series and the value of how so many come together for the life-saving gifts of organ donation.
The nature of working in an OPO is very gratifying and mission-focused. If you are looking to move into something that has more meaning and a way to give back to the community, a role at LifeCenter or in an OPO may be for you.
Andi introduces Tracie Shelton, who is new to the OPO and is the current Chief Administration Officer.
Tracie has extensive experience in healthcare. She is a nurse by background and has held a lot of leadership roles at high performing hospitals in the area.
Life Center has been the opportunity of a lifetime for Tracie, she says. She explains when she came in and went to the community breakfast right away.
Andi asks Tracie what it has been like to switch from larger organizations to a smaller one. She shares the benefits.
Regulations are Tracie’s speciality and she wants to add value to support the mission and all teams.
What does a typical day look like for the Chief Administration Officer since it can look different each day? Who reports to this role?
The level of professionalism and work at LifeCenter is amazing, Tracie says.
The relationships between LifeCenter and donor families are so strong. Tracie talks about that importance as she has seen the other transplant side in healthcare.
What skills are necessary for a role like Tracie’s?
Andi reminds the listeners that there are 104,398 men, women, and children who need an organ transplant. How can you help?

3 Key Points:

Tracie sees being at LifeCenter as an opportunity of a lifetime because of the mission-focused and life-saving work.
What does a typical day look like for the Chief Administration Officer since it can look different each day?
You have what it takes when you have the leadership skills, you often need to just be. Tracie talks about confidence building, communication, and the feeling that you can really rely on each other.

Resources: https://aopo.org/ https://lifepassiton.org/ https://lifepassiton.org/board-of-directors-leadership/ https://www.facebook.com/LifeCenterOH https://www.youtube.com/user/LifeCenterOH

Episode 65: What does The Chief Operating Officer Do Within An OPO (Organ Procurement Organization)? With Matt Niles

Tue, 31 Jan 2023 04:00:00 -0500

On this episode of This Thing Called Life, host Andi Johnson finishes up the series on ‘The Donation Process Through The Lens Of The OPO’, exploring how things work and who is involved. There will be two additional guests for the series that will join in to share what they do within the OPO. Today, Matt Niles joins the show to discuss his new role at Life Center as the Chief Operations Officer. Tune in!

Episode Highlights:

Andi reminds the audience that she has interviewed people in every department of the OPO because each one plays a critical role in the donation value chain. You can check out any of the interviews from previous episodes at : https://lifepassiton.org/ or wherever you listen to your podcasts.
It truly takes a community to facilitate donation. Andi reviews everyone who is involved.
The purpose of this series has been two-fold: 1) to explain more about the OPO’s role and functionality so that the audience understands how the organ, eye, and tissue donations come to be as well as the intricacies of the life-saving and life-healing process. 2) If you are considering a career change, especially to something with deeper meaning to you, you can learn more about the different roles to the piece of the puzzle.
Andi introduces Matt Niles who is new to Life Center specifically but not new to the OPO world.
Matt Niles shares his background in Organ Procurement. He has been in the donation field since 2001.
Matt is from a small rural town in Pennsylvania. His family was very big on volunteering and he volunteered in their small community hospital when he was in junior high school.
At age 14, he saw a pamphlet about organ donation in the hospital. He filled out the donor card that evening with his parents.
Matt has been with Life Center for 3 months. Previously, he has been in many different roles that ultimately led him to being the COO here.
Matt shares his goals as he has taken over the role of CEO with Life Center. He says a lot of changes are happening in the industry and he wants to best prepare everyone for moving forward in those changes.
The field of transplant is relatively new, only being around for about 40 years so there are a lot of innovations and changes everyday.
Matt has had friends who have received transplants and he has had a friend who passed away waiting on the National Transplant Waiting List and he is a donor family. He is very passionate about it being his life’s work.
Organ transplantation doesn’t happen without donation so it is an incredibly important process.
Matt talks about everything that he oversees. Andi asks him to share the expertise that he brings.
Matt shares the personal story of his grandfather who was a donor.
Donor families and the people waiting are Matt’s WHY and focus.
Andi talks about the value of Matt’s outside perspective and ability to challenge Life Center for growth.
Matt has the perspective of a donor family, as an ICU and ER nurse where he cared for patients at their bedside, and as a clinician being a part of the process when the OPO comes in and provides the opportunity of donation to a family. He started out as a donation coordinator at the OPO in Pittsburg, PA
When he wanted to go back to grad school he switched over to a large hospital as a director of the medical ICU and dialysis centers. He remained the chair of the hospital donor committee.
After grad school, he had the opportunity to return to OPO as a director in Washington D.C.
Andi asks Matt to share what a day in his work looks like and how it starts.
What about the philosophy of some people in the community who believe that if they are a registered donor they will be killed for their organs?
What does it take to qualify to be a donor?
There are so many misconceptions in healthcare in general and even more in donation and transplants. Matt says it is their responsibility to acknowledge the doubts and fears but also bring the powerful truths and educate so families can make the right decision for them.
Andi asks Matt to share what he finds most challenging about his role today.
What does it take to be a COO at an Organ Procurement Organization?
Andi reminds everyone that there are 104,398 men, women, and children who need a life-saving organ. Learn what being a donor really means or register as a donor at https://lifepassiton.org/or https://registerme.org/

3 Key Points:

Matt Niles shares that his school of thought has always been that he won’t need his organs anymore when he is gone so he should give them to someone who does; It has been a very straightforward decision for him since he was 14 and led him to his career and where he is today.
Transplant is a relatively new field, only having been around about 40 years. Matt says there are innovations and changes everyday that they need to stay on top of and ahead of and ultimately eliminate the deaths that are occuring on the waiting list.
Matt clarifies what it takes to qualify to be an organ donor and that the hospital always 100% of the time tries to save all patient lives.

Resources:

Episode 64: Understanding How Organ Procurement Organizations Are Financed

Tue, 24 Jan 2023 04:00:00 -0500

On this episode of This Thing Called Life, host Andi Johnson winds down the series on ‘The Donation Process Through The Lens Of The OPO’, exploring how things work and who is involved. If you missed the previous episode in the series, you can find them at lifepassiton.org or wherever you listen to your podcasts. Today, Andi talks with Maryanne Krumpleman, the finance manager. Tune in to hear how this piece of the puzzle comes together.

Episode Highlights:

Andi explains how Life Center works with so many different entities to facilitate organ donation.
The United Network of Organ Sharing houses the waitlist of the more than 100,000 people waiting for an organ.
Andi reminds the audience of the ‘book ends’ to this process and that it is the people. The people who designate themselves to be donors or their families…it all begins with that yes and that is how everything unfolds.
If you’re thinking about a career change, as many look to do something with more meaning, organ donation is a wonderful career path; They give back every single day.
Maryanne Krumpleman is the finance manager of Life Center. Prior to COVID in 2019, she made the decision to leave corporate America where she had spent most of her career. She says it was the best decision of her life to start working for Life Center in 2020.
Five years ago, Maryanne’s best friend’s husband was in need of a kidney. It turns out his wife was a match to be a donor which is very unusual. They went through the transplant process in 2017 and are doing very well today.
What does the finance department do at the Life Center?
Maryanne explains that they are a nonprofit organization but structured similarly to a hospital.
How do all of the employees get paid as well as health insurance, insurance on the building, all other vendors that are included?
After a family gives the authorization, Life Center’s finance department takes on the cost of donation.
Andi asks Maryanne Krumpleman to explain the aspects of finance.
There are many parts to the ‘checks and balances’ of the finances for Life Center. Maryanne explains how many things must get approved by the board of directors and Executive Director as well as audits and aligning with all government regulations.
What is a sack fee?
Healthcare in general is expensive and Andi explains there is a cost to make everything operate efficiently and appropriately.
Maryanne explains that there is a pay scale for different types of tissues.
Andi asks Maryanne what the most challenging aspects of her job are.
All of the managers have a great passion for the overall mission.
Maryanne explains that in a corporate world, all the meetings were about how much money could be made, the bottom line, etc. She shares how it is truly a breath of fresh air at Life Center because the focus is not on money but on the mission of saving and enhancing the lives of people.
What kinds of skills would you need to fill a similar role to Maryanne’s?
Maryanne talks about how they receive memorial contributions and how their responsibility is to use those funds to spread the word and utilize them well.
Andi says the generosity of the community has been overwhelming to see over the years and the importance of educating the community in return.
home at the end of the day.” -Maryanne
“Today there are 104,869 men, women, and children who are in need of a lifesaving organ and also today 21 of those individuals will die because the organ they needed was not available,” says Andi. She explains how you can help.

3 Key Points:

Maryanne’s eyes were opened to how many people are on the list waiting for kidneys specifically when she was alongside her best friend and her husband going through the transplant process.
There are many aspects of the finance department. Maryanne explains all aspects from weekly, biweekly, monthly, quarterly, etc. and how all the monitoring and auditing works as well as in accordance with the government.
Life Center is passionately committed to the mission of saving and enhancing lives. It is challenging and very rewarding. The organization is set apart by how all of their functions work together for the overall goal and truly making a difference.

Resources: https://aopo.org/ https://lifepassiton.org/ https://www.facebook.com/LifeCenterOH https://www.youtube.com/user/LifeCenterOH

Community Heroes: Se puede tener ataúd abierto.- Ep 47

Tue, 17 Jan 2023 04:00:00 -0500

Resources:
https://lifepassiton.org/
https://www.facebook.com/LifeCenterOH
Life Center Phone # 513-558-5555

Episode 63: How Does A Family Aftercare Coordinator Help Donor Families? With Katie Wright

Tue, 10 Jan 2023 04:00:00 -0500

On this episode of This Thing Called Life, host Andi Johnson continues the series on ‘The Donation Process Through The Lens Of The OPO’, exploring how things work and who is involved. If you missed the previous episode in the series, you can find them at lifepassiton.org or wherever you listen to your podcasts. Today, Andi talks with Katie Wright, a family aftercare coordinator with Life Center. . Tune in to hear her personal connection to the organization as well as her career path.

Episode Highlights:

Katie, a family aftercare coordinator introduces herself. She has been with Life Center for nine years.
Andi asks Katie what led her to begin working at Life Center; She shares that her brother was waiting on the transplant list and ended up passing away while he was waiting. He went on to be a tissue donor. He was young at 32.
Katie used to work in the communication department and she actually started up the aftercare department when Life Center wanted to make a bigger support system for donor families.
What exactly does aftercare do?
Katie talks about outcome letters which thanks families and explains what they know about what their gifts and how they helped.
What is the communication process between recipient and donor family?
“Every recipient and every donor family handles their grief and their survivor's guilt and medical bumps in the road differently”, says Katie. She explains that some families want the letter and sometimes they don’t. Their department balances that to meet the needs of what people want and need.
Andi asks Katie to talk about how Aftercare helps in bereavement.
Katie talks about events and live streaming to reach families and give opportunities for them to connect with other families.
Andi shares her perspective on families interacting with each other as she has seen it play out.
Families receive a memorial gift from Life Center too to celebrate and remember their family members.
What is the Donor Family Council?
Andi asks Katie to share how her family personally remembers her brother.
Katie and Andi talk about The Path Of Life located in a local park, Mt. Echo. Families receive ribbons of remembrance to tie on trees if they choose.
Andi asks Katie what the most rewarding part of working at Life Center is.
There are many people struggling with grief; Andi says lifepassiton.org has a lot of resources and encourages checking it out.

3 Key Points:

How does the Family Aftercare Department contribute to the value chain of organ, eye, and tissue donation? Andi and Katie discuss what they do and how it impacts lives.
Katie’s personal experience with her brother being a tissue donor at 32 after passing away waiting on the organ transplant list which prepared her to be the one who actually helped start up the aftercare department which Life Center specifically created to provide more comprehensive care and support for donor families.
Recipients and donor families sometimes do want contact and others do not. The aftercare department helps facilitate the communications if/when it is appropriate to meet everybody’s needs.

Resources:

Episode 62: Awareness Of Kidney Donation with CEO of Christ Hospital, Debbie Hayes

Tue, 27 Dec 2022 04:00:00 -0500

During this episode of This Thing Called Life podcast, host Andi Johnson talks to Debbie Hayes. She is a healthcare leader in Cincinnati, and specifically she leads a number one ranked hospital in the Cincinnati region. Tune in to hear her experiences and perspective on kidney donation.

Episode Highlights:

Debbie began as a nurse at Christ Hospital. She worked her way up to being CEO, also led the Board of Directors at LifeCenter Organ Donor Network for 9-10 years.
She started her career 34 years ago as a student nurse aide. The one thing that always amazed her about this organization is that you are given opportunities to grow and develop your talents.
The pandemic was one of the most challenging times in the history of healthcare, but it has also been one of the most rewarding times. Because of the extraordinary efforts of an incredible team of people working they have still kept that mission of the organization at the forefront of everything that they do despite every challenge.
“We are definitely grateful for all of our hospital partners throughout our service area who are able to facilitate organ, eye, and tissue donation”, says Andi.
Many people who have organ failures of any kind are not able to fully experience what life is all about,which is why Debbie is passionate about this.
Andi inquires, during the pandemic, “Did that affect patients waiting for kidney transplants at Christ Hospital?”
One of the trends that she has noticed during her time at the Life Center is that living kidney donation continues to increase. Debbie explains her thoughts about why we are seeing more people making that choice to be a living kidney donor.
Andi had the opportunity to interview a young woman who was actually waiting for a kidney, and she was listed at Christ, and she just could not say enough about what a positive experience has been with her team there.
There are probably a million-plus surgeries that occur in the country requiring donor tissue, which is very interesting.
Andi recalls a story about a young woman who was a volunteer and ambassador, and she has been waiting for a kidney for about three years, and unfortunately, she passed away. But she was able to be a cornea donor, and it just meant so much to her husband and young daughter.
Debbie talks about who/what experience has helped shape her into the leader she has become.
Andi asks Debbie to give advice to someone who is just starting out in their career in healthcare and may be inspired to lead a healthcare system down the road.

3 Key Points:

Debbie shares how she maintains the passion for the work that she has been doing. She was recently named CEO of the Christ Hospital after serving as interim for a period of time, and just as an outsider looking in, it seems like health care leaders don’t tend to stay put with this same place for so long. She shares what it is that kept her at Christ all of this time.
During the pandemic, things at the LifeCenter were quite dramatic. Debbie talks about the changes they have had to undergo during this time to attract people to sign up to be donors.
There are about 750,000 people a year in the United States that have kidney failure. If we could get a transplant for every single one of those patients when they needed it, wouldn’t that really make an impact in the United States?

Resources Mentioned:

LifeCenter | website | Facebook | Instagram | YouTube| Twitter
Andi Johnson website |LinkedIn
Organ Donation Website
https://www.donatelife.net/nmdam/

Community Heroes- El don de la vida.- Ep 46

Tue, 20 Dec 2022 04:00:00 -0500

Resources:

Life Center Phone # 513-558-5555

Episode 61: Why Do OPO’s Need A Quality Assurance Department?

Tue, 13 Dec 2022 04:00:00 -0500

On this episode of This Thing Called Life, host Andi Johnson talks with Sarah Kepf to continue the series on “The Donation Process From The Lens of The OPO” where she has been taking listeners through step by step how the donation process works and all of the different departments and people involved within the Organ Procurement Organization (OPO). If you want to know more about how the gift of life comes to be through donation, tune in now!

Episode Highlights:

Andi reviews the previous speakers in this series of exploring the process of donation through the OPO- Organ Procurement Organization.
The Process begins in Donation Support services with donation coordinators as the following step. There are also the family services coordinators, organ recovery specialists, and tissue recovery technicians. Andi has interviewed people in each of these departments - if you missed it be sure to check the episode list!
Organ, eye, and tissue donation is deeply collaborative. It takes a community of hospitals and staff, transplant centers, the OPO, sometimes the coroner, and funeral homes.
Did you know that a donor can have an open casket? Andi says, “The body of a donor is treated with the utmost care and integrity.”
The Quality Assurance Department is critical to the donation chain. They ensure that the OPO is compliant in the recovery process as well as all policies are correct. They work closely with regulatory agencies to make sure that the organization is working in line with them.
Sarah Kepf introduces herself. She has been with Life Center for 11 years; She started as a tissue chart reviewer and is now the Quality Assurance Manager.
Fresh out of nursing school Sarah joined The Life Center. She shares how she journeyed through her career to where she is now.
Andi asks Sarah to talk about The Quality Department’s role in the donation value chain.
Sarah’s department works closely with auditors and surveyors from a regulatory standpoint.
There is also a safety standpoint of the Quality department; Sarah is the safety officer. If an event occurs, she is interviewing staff members or she is testing different incidents.
Sarah says they are also heavily involved in process improvement which is up and coming to ensure that the organization is running as smoothly as possible and staying up to date with any new changes.
The Quality department started with two people and they now have eight.
Sarah talks about how they continue to stay true to the mission of enhancing lives and honoring all in the very important process they follow.
Andi asks Sarah to give examples of incidents that she may have to investigate.
If an error occurs it is a chance for improvement. The other departments have an understanding of how Quality is improving work for everyone.
How can someone get involved in the quality department? Sarah shares that it is beneficial to have a medical background as well as attention to detail and ability to critically think.
Andi asks Sarah what is most challenging about her role.
Healthcare is ever-changing so Quality really has to stay on top of changes and who the changes will impact as it could be one department or could trickle down to another as well.
Sometimes people question how regulated organ donation is. Andi and Sarah discuss myths people believe. Sarah brings up how they have laws that heavily regulate everything.
If you are interested in life center career opportunities or becoming a donor, you can check at https://lifepassiton.org/

3 Key Points:

Organ, eye, and tissue donation takes a community working together. Hospitals and their staff, transplant centers, many in the OPO, coroners, and funeral homes.
The Quality Assurance department ensures that the organization remains audit ready and that they are compliant with their regulatory and government bodies. Sarah shares how they do that.
The Life Center continues to grow and flourish with their mission to enhance lives through donation while honoring those who gave. Sarah and Andi talk about how it is done in such a way that looks out for everyone.

Resources: https://aopo.org/ https://lifepassiton.org/ https://www.facebook.com/LifeCenterOH https://www.youtube.com/user/LifeCenterOH

Episode 60: Finding Your Way Through Grief with Chamoda Palmore

Tue, 06 Dec 2022 19:17:20 -0500

During this episode of This Thing Called Life, host Andi Johnson speaks with Chamoda Palmore, a father to a son that was fatally injured in a motorcycle accident on his way to football practice in 2014. As a man, Chamoda knows that he might grieve differently than other people, but as someone going through his own journey of grief, he knows it’s important to find a way to grieve.

Episode Highlights:

Chamoda is a business owner that lost his son, Chamoda Kennedy-Palmore, to a motorcycle accident.
Throughout his journey of grief, Chamoda has experienced a rollercoaster of emotions.
It takes a lot of patience to get through the grieving process.
Chamoda has leaned heavily on his faith, friends, family, and various support organizations.
After meeting a woman who lost 2 children to a car crash, Chamoda was able to put things into perspective.
Even 6 years later, it doesn’t feel real to Chamoda, it feels like someone is missing.
Chamoda found it difficult to engage with other people, staying away from family functions and gatherings.
If you have other children or people that depend on you, it’s important to find some level of normalcy again.
Giving back through Chamoda’s Candy Cafe and Chamoda’s foundation has helped Chamoda heal.
Right now more than ever, people all over the world need support and care from anyone that can give it.
Chamoda’s 2 daughters and wife have all dealt with Chamoda’s death in different ways.
When tragedy first strikes, it’s like the rainy season in April and it moistens up your heart to bloom in May.
It’s important to plant the right things, love, support, passion, during the initial phase of grieving.
Chamoda understood that it was a slippery slope to turn to a path of destructive behavior if grief is not handled correctly.
For about 2 months after his son died, Chamoda couldn’t open the bible.
Chamoda is comforted by knowing that as a tissue donor, Chamoda’s death was able to help many people.
The local driver’s ed has incorporated Chamoda’s organ and tissue donation into its program.
It’s hard for men to speak about their grief, but it’s important to find someone to talk to about their feelings.
Men feel that they have to be so strong for the family but that doesn’t mean they can’t let it out somewhere else.
Around the holidays, it’s important to find different ways to express your grief.
Chamoda helped more than 30 people as a tissue and cornea donor.
When his son died, Chamoda felt like an infant that just needed to be held.
Have patience with those in your life that has lost someone; eventually, it will slow down, but for now, listen.

3 Key Points:

Chamoda likens his journey of grief to that of a baby’s journey of learning to walk. Right now, he is holding onto the banister as he guides his feet.
Giving back to other people out there that are hurting can help someone heal and get through their own grief.
Chamoda’s organ and tissue donation, now a part of their local driver’s ed video, has helped encourage others to become donors.

Resources Mentioned:

LifeCenter (website) (Facebook) (Instagram) (YouTube) (Twitter)
Andi Johnson (website) (LinkedIn)
Chamoda’s Candy Cafe (website, Facebook)
What's Your Grief
Grief In Common
Refuge In Grief
The Center for Loss

Community Heroes-Those Impacted By Organ, Eye, And Tissue Donation- Ep 45

Tue, 29 Nov 2022 04:00:00 -0500

Resources:

Life Center Phone # 513-558-5555

Episode 59: A Mother’s Story About A Tragic Loss And A 15-year-olds Mission To Always Help Others.

Tue, 22 Nov 2022 09:51:31 -0500

Episode Highlights:

Aimee Cordrey is married to Darren Cordray. They have been married for over 20 years and been together for a little bit longer than that. They met in college, and they have two sons Richard, a 19 year old, and Nick, who would be 17, but he is forever 15. Both of them are athletes, very different yet very similar in their interests and just how they approach life.
In the middle of the pandemic Aimee and her family had been quarantined like everyone else for quite some time. School had just ended. Nick had just finished freshman year of high school and it was Memorial Day. Nick and Aimee went shopping that day to get some hamburgers and some vegetables and different things to grill out.
Nick hadn't seen his friends because of quarantine. Aimee allowed him to go meet some of his friends at a local ice cream shop that was within walking distance of their house because one of his best friends was leaving for vacation the next day and she was going to be gone for two weeks.
Nick decided to take a shower at night. All of a sudden Aimee heard the water go on and then they heard some really heavy, intense breathing, they were shocked. They thought it was our other son Richard, playing video games. She went to the basement, but it was not Richard, it was Nick.
Nick loved life and he approached everything with this attitude of – "I can do it." His family really believed he was going to be okay and pull through.
Aimee explains how and when they went about the conversation of Nick being an orgn donor. The hospital staff acknowledged all the protocols that they have in place, and they contacted Life Center.
Nick had not yet been able to get his temps. He would have been eligible for them. The month that everything happened, he had actually registered as an organ donor.
The letter that Aimee received said that Nick saved five people with seven organs, and probably impacted 40 to 50 others. The only thing Nick was unable to donate was his intestines, which they initially believed he was going to be able to do until they started doing the surgery.
Aimee shares her thoughts on what it all meant to her, Darren and Richard to know that Nick helped so many people by donating his organs.
“Learning that sometimes bad things happen to good people and learning to be ok with that and it is not even being ok with it, it's just accepting it- that is one piece of it. The donation piece brings that pride.” -Aimee
Aimee thinks that being able to talk about organ donation enables her to talk about Nick.
Andi feels like Aimee is doing so much just to help people understand the magnitude of the donation and its impact.
Andi asks Aimee about the project that she is working on at his school in his honor.
One of Nick's friends, Grayson, started a change.org petition. He wanted to have the school board name the soccer field after Nick.
There isn't a lesson here when it comes to losing a son. The only lesson that Aimee has learned is that bad things happen to good people, and she has learned that when you encounter a loss like this you integrate it into your life, you don't overcome it.
Grief is something that has stages and some stages may be re-visited at times. It is ongoing.
Nick loved everything. All of the time he was researching, reading to understand deeply, caring deeply, everything was with passion, everything was with full intent. He didn't do anything without truly caring about it. If he was gonna do it, he was doing it 100% all in and that's what Nick was, and he is.

3 Key Points:

Nick had a brain aneurysm that his family didn't know about. Nick did not complain of a headache that day. He didn't have any signs of anything that day. He had an amazing day, and it was that quick. They called 911. They were very quick, they took him to the hospital, his aneurysm ruptured three times. At the hospital, they did surgery on him and for 9 days his family thought Nick was going to make it.
Aimee tells the listeners how Nick was able to help other people through the gift of life that he was able to give.
Each one of us is different. Unique as people, Aimee thinks everyone's grief is very unique. She needed to be around other people. Aimee thinks that the donor family council is amazing. They are a source of strength. They are unshakable.

Resources Mentioned:

LifeCenter | Website | Facebook | Instagram | YouTube| Twitter
Andi Johnson website |LinkedIn
Organ Donation Website

Community Heroes: La fe y la gratitud por la donación.- EP 44

Tue, 15 Nov 2022 04:00:00 -0500

Resources:

Life Center Phone # 513-558-5555

Community Heroes: If You Donate A Portion Of Your Liver, Will It Grow Back?- Ep 43

Tue, 08 Nov 2022 04:00:00 -0500

Life Center Phone # 513-558-5555

Community Heroes: Why Should You Attend The Life Center Community Breakfast?- EP 42

Tue, 25 Oct 2022 04:00:00 -0400

Resources:

Life Center Phone # 513-558-5555

Episode 58: How Can Family Genetics Lead To The Need For a Liver Transplant? With Tony Burdette

Tue, 18 Oct 2022 04:00:00 -0400

Episode Highlights:

Tony had never given much thought to organ donation, but sometimes it takes a crisis to bring it to the forefront of your mind.
Tony's father underwent a liver transplant in 1997, but it was a painful experience since, after 14 hours, the surgeons came out and told them that he probably wouldn't survive. But, happily, doctors were able to get it to work sufficiently, and he received a second transplant two days later.
The hereditary condition does not impact everyone. They can live perfectly well without it. However, something triggered Tony's liver in early 2019, and his liver began to fail rapidly.
Tony had all the excess fluid in his body, common for people with liver failure. So, he had to have the procedure called a thoracentesis, and over seven months, he had to have that procedure done 52 times.
Tony couldn’t keep having these procedures every other day. So at the University of Cincinnati Medical Center for evaluation at the Transplant clinic, he was put on the list rather quickly around the beginning of May and received his liver on August 3rd, 2019.
It was a quick illness for Tony and a painful one, but thankfully his transplant and the surgery were very successful. He was discharged from the hospital just five days later without any complications.
Tony has a brother. He obviously has the deficiency, but he hasn’t had any symptoms so far. He is under the care of a GI, and they are keeping close tabs on him.
Both of Tony’s children have a deficiency as well, and they are under the care of the liver transplant team at children just out of precaution. The doctors check them every year and have liver scans done to keep a check on them and make sure everything is ok.
About three weeks after Tony’s transplant, he received two letters in the mail from elementary-age girls who wrote him a letter and said that they just wanted to let him know that he had received their mother’s liver.
Tony has studied music at the University of Cincinnati College-Conservatory, one of the greatest in the world, and it is such an honor to be accepted there.
Tony is the artistic director of an organization called Aviva Voices Choral Organization. It’s an organization that he founded, and it provides high-quality community choirs for children, youth, and adults.
The program’s cornerstone is the brand new work for a course and orchestra called the breath of life, and it was written actually before the pandemic.
Often, being open with what you are going through can impact other people. When Tony was going through all this, we posted periodically about this on social media as encouragement for people.
Tony encourages people to not be afraid no matter what you are going through in life. Be open, share, and find people that you can talk to and know that your story can impact people.

3 Key Points:

Alpha-1 antitrypsin is an enzyme and it is created in the liver. The deficiency is that the enzyme gets trapped in the liver and creates a deficiency in the lungs. But when that enzyme gets trapped in the liver, it can cause liver damage.
Tony has spent his whole career serving as a professional musician, singing professionally with opera and orchestras around the country, and doing a lot of conducting with choirs and teaching singing.
Tony’s concert’s date is Saturday, April 30th, the last day of the month and the last day of donating life month. The concert is taking place at Christ Church Cathedral, which is a huge, beautiful venue.

Resources Mentioned:

LifeCenter | Website | Facebook | Instagram | YouTube| Twitter
Andi Johnson website |LinkedIn
Organ Donation Website
https://www.vivavoices.net/about/
https://www.facebook.com/tony.burdette.5

Community Heroes: What is Cornea and Tissue Donation? Q&A With Lincoln Ware Of WDBZ-EP 41

Tue, 11 Oct 2022 04:00:00 -0400

Resources:

Life Center Phone # 513-558-5555

Episode 57: Kidney Disease Can Be A Silent Organ Killer, With Dr. Govil

Tue, 04 Oct 2022 04:00:00 -0400

During this episode of This Thing Called Life podcast, host Andi Johnson talks to Dr. Govil,who has been in health care for many years, specifically working in the area of kidneys and kidney health He is a professor of medicine at UC Health as well as Director of Transplant and Chief Section of Transplantation.

Episode Highlights:

Dr. Govil shares has been in this field for over 20 years and he has dedicated more than 15 years of that time to take care of patients needing kidney transplants.
Dr. Govil shares why he chose this area of medicine to practice in.
One of Dr. Govil’s first exposures as a medical resident was with a patient who had trace protein in the urine. All of them, as residents, ignored that component of lab finding and did not realize that their finding was a world-renowned figure in diabetic kidney disease.
One in six of the US population is at risk for kidney disease, and more importantly, one in 10 out of the US has some element of kidney disease or chronic kidney disease.
Dr. Govil says kidney disease is very silent. You may only have pain in the kidneys when you have physical problems like kidney stones or any cyst that is hurting you.
The only way you discover kidney disease is through the blood test and routine numbers analysis.
Diet does play a role in making kidney disease worse or stable, but a lot of that has to be done with how we manage our primary disease, which is causing kidney disease.
It is very difficult to ask one patient to stop eating salt because everything we eat around us is loaded with salt, and it is very difficult to break that cycle, says Dr. Govil.
Andi asks, “Is this kidney disease more prevalent here in America, or is it more prevalent in other parts of the world?”
There are definitely certain aspects of kidney disease that we do not understand, which means that they may have familial clustering, says Dr. Govil.
As we progress, we now can identify certain genes that make one more prone to have kidney disease, which does not mean that everyone who has it will present with it.
Andi asks about Dr. Govil’s experience specifically, “Do you see more of Caucasian patients? Do they seem to have more success in identifying living kidney donors? And if so, why do you think that is?”
When we look at the transplant or people who are receiving dialysis, 1/3 of them are African American, which means that there is definitely more propensity of any disease in this group of patients than any other group.
Dr. Govil says, “When we look at the number of people on the list compared to the people who get transplanted and then compare it to the number of people who are on dialysis, they just don't add up completely.”
Dr. Govil clarifies the myth that kidney donation can harm a donor in the short run and in the long term.
As per Dr. Govil, education is the key, and that is what he feels when he goes to multiple outreach clinics in the tri-state area, and he realizes a lot of these barriers are related to misinformation.
Dr. Govil gives recommendations for keeping your kidneys healthy.
Don't count on kidney pain as one of the symptoms because kidney pain really is not a symptom of kidney disease -that is just a mechanical problem, which could be because of a stone in the kidney or some cyst.
Diseases are frightening in many aspects; These are things that could be prevented if we took the proper steps and proactively saw our doctors.
Changes in organ allocation will generally increase some of the volume, but it will definitely increase the volume for certain centers to do more transplants.
A donor that may have hepatitis is now able to give organs to the patient in need of a transplant, and then that can be treated, says Andi.
The dialysis survival is really dismal over a period of time. So, a 10-year survival on dialysis is around 10%.

3 Key Points:

Dr. Govil explains what leads someone to having kidney failure. We have to realize that the kidneys are affected by a lot of things that happen in our body, whether it be high blood pressure, diabetes, or any other changes that may be related to some problems happening at the level of the kidney itself.
Kidney disease means we are in a tier of the kidney, which is a very silent process and so essentially, your kidneys really do not have to hurt and actually they do not hurt at all when you fail your kidneys over a period of time.
If we have a healthy, balanced diet to stabilize our diabetes and high blood pressure, it will indirectly help keep our kidneys happy and healthy.

Resources Mentioned:

LifeCenter | website | Facebook | Instagram | YouTube| Twitter
Andi Johnson website |LinkedIn
Organ Donation Website
https://www.donatelife.net/nmdam/

This Thing Called Life: Community Heroes-Gratitud por los BMVs- Ep 40

Tue, 27 Sep 2022 04:00:00 -0400

Resources:

Life Center Phone # 513-558-5555

Episode 56: A Heart Transplant Recipient Is On A Mission To Educate Her Community About Heart Health, With Sandra Wright

Tue, 20 Sep 2022 04:00:00 -0400

On this episode of This Thing Called Life, host Andi Johnson is talking with Sandra Wright. She has a special testimony to share. The goal of this podcast is to help listeners understand what organ donation is and isn’t and how it truly impacts others. February is Black History Month and American Heart Month. Sandra is a transplant survivor and the founder of The Greater Cincinnati African American Heart Association. Tune in now for her special story!

Episode Highlights:

Sandra is a heart transplant recipient. In 2014, she contracted a virus that was never named but lingered and left her with a side effect of shortness of breath. Later that year, she was on vacation when it all kind of climaxed.
She shares her story of going to the hospital and the dire state she was in. She was told she had Heart Failure but she went into immediate denial. She cautions the listeners against denial because then you don’t do what you need to do.
There will be a book coming out to tell Sandra’s full story in the future to help many.
Christ Hospital in Cincinnati set her on the path of her life being saved.
Prior to Sandra’s visit at Christ Hospital, every two months she would go for maintenance care to control the edema but other than that she wouldn’t take the medicine or change her lifestyle until 2017 when her heart would no longer serve her.
Sandra shares how her faith got her through the scary time of being in need of a heart.
The Greater Cincinnati African American Heart Association was created by Sandra to help provide others support, to create a community where they feel respected, heard, and understood. She shares about the services and her vision for down the road.
For those who hear they have CFH, Congestive Heart Failure, that is all they are going to think about and can come unexpectedly and at vulnerable times.
Andi shares how the healthcare system is not accessible for all and how detrimental it is for many, especially people of color.
Sandra shares a sad story of talking with her granddaughter who said she ‘hated being black’ and how that ideology fuels her heart and mission to create an environment of support for the African American Community.
Andi asks Sandra to share any encouraging thing she is experiencing or new strength she sees in the community.
Andi reminds listeners that today, 106,494 people are waiting for life saving organ transplants and more than 3,400 need heart transplants. Can you think about your decision to be a donor and save a life?

3 Key Points:

Sandra shares a shocking story of her journey with heart failure and the danger of being in denial of the diagnosis.
The African American community is at the highest risk and has the greatest fatality which led Sandra to create The Greater Cincinnati African American Heart Association as a community of support.
Sandra shares that living 65 years in this world, we are beginning to understand the necessity of working together and supporting each other and that is encouraging and exciting.

Resources Mentioned:

LifeCenter | Website | Facebook | Instagram | YouTube| Twitter
Andi Johnson website |LinkedIn
Organ Donation Website
Sandra Wright |swright.gcaaha@gmail.com |513-484-4772
The Greater Cincinnati African American Heart Association

This Thing Called Life- Community Heroes: Generational Health Requires Family And Community Conversations About Today’s Medical Truths- EP 39

Tue, 13 Sep 2022 04:00:00 -0400

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