Show Notes: We welcome Angie Mikkelson, a heart transplant recipient who’s galloping into her second chance at life. Angie shares her incredible journey from living with a lifelong heart defect to receiving the lifesaving gift of a heart at 25 years old. She shares how the generosity of her donor hero inspired her to push the boundaries of enduranc…

Show Notes: In this episode, we explore the journey of living with kidney disease. We talk to Pesh Patel, who has transformed a life altering diagnosis into his mission. Pesh shares his personal story and how he founded A Kidney Life, which includes a podcast, Talk Kidney to Me. This podcast is dedicated to raising awareness for those living with k…

Show Notes: Dr. Satish Nadig with Northwestern Medicine and kidney transplant recipient, John Nicholas, join us to share details about a medical breakthrough in kidney transplantation. The AWAKE Kidney Program (Accelerated Surgery Without General Anesthesia in Kidney Transplantation) is a new approach in kidney transplantation, and in John's case, …

Show Notes: We welcome Casana Fink, an advocate for organ and tissue donation, nonprofit founder, entrepreneur, author, Miss Tampa and at the release of this episode, the current Miss Florida, who will be competing in the Miss America competition next year. As the daughter of a liver recipient, Casana has dedicated over a decade to educate others a…

Show Notes: In this community partnership episode, we dive into the topic of school safety and gain important insights from Louisiana Center for Safe Schools Director, Trevis Thompson. Trevis explores the strategies, practices and programs that support school communities and their safety partners. Learn how communities can use these programs to ens…

Show Notes: Join us for an inspiring episode as we chat with nurse Lori Vaughn and teen Lauren Swanson. Lauren’s battle with a rare disease led to her needing a kidney transplant. One day, Lori stumbled upon a social media plea for a living donor for Lauren. Even though she had no direct connection to Lauren, Lori felt led to see if she was a match…

Show Notes: We are getting you ready for the 2024 Transplant Games of America and TGA's inaugural Film Festival in Birmingham by welcoming previous guests Bill Ryan and Robert Horsey. Bill is President and CEO of the Transplant Games of America, and Robert is the Writer and Executive Producer of Gifted: The Docuseries. They catch us up by sharing t…

Show Notes: We sit down with Mark Fenrich, who's faced a lifelong battle with kidney disease, undergoing a remarkable journey with a total of four kidney transplants from four different members of his family. Mark's inspiring story has captivated national media, and showcases the incredible impact of living kidney donation. Following our conversati…

Show Notes: In this episode, we’re joined by The Houston Gamer, Willie Jefferson, who's an avid gamer, popular YouTube vlogger, journalist, minister, and a grateful kidney recipient. Willie shares his journey with our hosts by detailing his illness, insights into his dialysis treatments and his life saving transplant. He reveals the reason behind n…

Show Notes: In this pivotal episode, Kelli McQuesten, a Community Outreach Coordinator at Lifeline of Ohio, channels her personal tragedy into a powerful call for change. She tragically lost her husband, Matthew, due to not receiving a heart transplant in time. Motivated by her family's heart-wrenching experience of waiting in vain for a life-savin…

Show Notes: We are discussing the Fais Do-Donate, an upcoming fundraiser to benefit the LOPA Foundation aimed at celebrating the gift of life on a Louisiana Saturday night. Wendy Lipsey, a LOPA Foundation Board Member and grateful transplant recipient, joins our podcast to share her transplantation journey and shed light on the activities lined up …

Show Notes: Presenting "Gifted: The Docuseries," a compelling and uplifting exploration of organ donation and transplantation. Delve into the genesis of this inspirational series with author and filmmaker, Robert Horsey, as we journey alongside donor mom Jody Miller. Through Jody's poignant experience, we witness how her daughter, Heather, became a…

Show Notes: Leah Veck, grandmother to the donor hero Aliye Ringe, transformed her grief into action by delivering impassioned testimony before a Louisiana Legislative Committee. Thanks to Leah's tireless advocacy, Aliye's Law HB 289 was enacted in July 2023, guaranteeing that all Louisiana high school students receive education on organ, tissue, ey…

Show Notes: We partner with Ashley Rodrigue, the Public Affairs Director for the State Fire Marshal's Office, to share life-saving fire safety tips. Learn about Louisiana's new carbon monoxide law, the Operation Save-A-Life program, and crucial measures to ensure your home and family are safe. In our Mental Health Moment, we discuss tips for priori…

Show Notes: Dive into the exploration of grief with Patricia Cameron, an author and donor wife, who shares her journey after her husband's sudden passing at 45. In her book, Grief Unwrapped, Patricia confronts the burning question many face in the wake of loss: "Can I find joy again?" Discover her empowering insights on transitioning from mere surv…

Show Notes: Join us as we warmly welcome Tony Lucero, an avid listener and grateful liver recipient, to share his remarkable transplantation journey. Tony's powerful story sheds light on the many faceted connections made in the organ donation process. Our mental health moment takes a reflective turn as we discuss the importance of slowing down in a…

Show Notes: In this podcast episode, we delve into the impactful work of Student Organ Donation Advocates (SODA National), an organization empowering students to drive organ donation advocacy on their high school or college campuses. Program Director, Nicole Nidea, provides an insightful update on SODA's outreach initiatives since our previous disc…

Show Notes: Dr. Crystal Glover and Ryan Johnson of The Rush Alzheimer's Disease Center (RADC), join us to discuss the importance of brain donation in understanding and treating Alzheimer's disease. Brain donation provides a definite diagnosis for families to help identify any hereditary issues and risk factors associated with Alzheimer’s disease an…

Show Notes: A listener turns into a guest on The Gifted Life Podcast. Pam Dworetz-Sofarelli wrote Wyatt's Wish, inspired by the gift of donation. Her book is geared towards young children with family and friends who are journeying through the organ donation process. Learn how Pam utilizes gentle storytelling to lead Wyatt to a very unexpected life …

Show Notes: In this episode, we talk about infants and how to ensure a safe sleep environment. Chris Knoblauch, Director of Education/Community Outreach with St. Tammany Parish Coroner's Office, and Sara Dickenson, Maternal Child Health Coordinator Supervisor with the Bureau of Family Health, join us to give valuable but simple tips for learning ab…

Show Notes: Heather Broussard, a mother on a mission, is dedicated to spreading awareness about water safety in the wake of the tragic loss of her 17-month-old daughter, Mazie. Transforming their family's heartbreak into a beacon of hope, they founded Mazie's Mission, an organization committed to promoting water safety. Heather not only recounts he…

Show Notes: We have a big bunch of friends in the studio to talk about Ava's Wish, a new book available now. The book is an inspired guide to help children understand the gift of organ and tissue donation. This book was written in honor of Ava Grace, who, following kindergarten graduation, became a "helper angel" at just 6-years-old and saved lives…

Show Notes: Community partners, Kristen Sanderson with the Louisiana Office of Public Health and Chris Knoblauch with the St. Tammany Parish Coroner's Office, join us in the studio to share important tips for maintaining safety while operating an ATV/UTV. Learn the ins and outs of the equipment and safety precautions families can take when enjoying…

Show Notes: Have you ever wondered how many people's lives can change in a matter of minutes? That's the guiding question for the book 17 Again, A Story of Life After Life, which is inspired by real-life events that occurred 30 years ago. At 17, Andrea Boullt, became a donor saving 6 lives following a tragic accident. Now, her sister and the book's…

Show Notes: We welcome back Kevin Caldwell from Ossium Health, who was previously featured on episode #114, to reveal groundbreaking developments in the realm of bone marrow research and transplantation. Prepare to be amazed as we delve into Ossium's cutting-edge research, showcasing remarkable advancements in the preservation of bone marrow over e…

Show Notes: Children are naturally curious, and they have a unique ability to empathize and understand complex concepts when presented in a clear and simple manner. In this episode, we welcome Madeline Pawloski, author of The Gift: A Children's Book About "The Gift" of Organ Donation. Madeline delicately introduces the topic in a kid-friendly way t…

Show Notes: This episode’s guest is heart recipient, Ryan Gallet, who hails from the heart of Cajun Country. Ryan, who is 48 years old, had a massive heart attack at the age of 30 due to a 100% blockage. About 3 years later, Ryan learned his heart only had 10% function and he needed a new heart to live. Now, he shares his story to inspire more peop…

Show Notes: As we continue our conversation with Dr. Anji Wall, Abdominal Transplant Surgeon and Bioethicist at Baylor, Scott and White Health in Dallas, we delve into the legal and ethical aspects of Normothermic Regional Perfusion (NRP), a revolutionary advancement in organ recovery and transplantation. One of the critical issues surrounding NRP …

Show Notes: Welcome to a special two-part series on Normothermic Regional Perfusion (NRP)! We have a true pioneer and expert in the field of transplantation joining us. Dr. Anji Wall, Abdominal Transplant Surgeon and Bioethicist at Baylor, Scott and White Health in Dallas, will be sharing with us the groundbreaking advancements in organ recovery an…

Show Notes: We welcome Dr. Ray Tucker, with the Baton Rouge Crisis Intervention Center to discuss the Traumatic Loss Support Program and how its structure helps support families going through a sudden loss such as suicide. Learn key details about the program, statistics and gain takeaways to apply to your own life. Then in our Mental Health Moment …

Show Notes: We welcome Analy Navarro, a mom who gave life twice. Analy's daughter was born with Biliary Atresia, a rare liver disease that affects 1 in every 12,000 infants worldwide. Analy's act of donation, along with her children's book, Mighty Me, showcases her commitment to making a positive difference in the lives of others. She continues to …

Show Notes: Writing can be a powerful tool for expressing intense emotions, including grief. Whether it's through journaling, letters, or other forms of written communication, putting our thoughts and feelings into words can provide solace and support during the grieving process. In the context of organ and tissue donation, writing can play a signi…

Show Notes: Experiencing a health crisis is a daunting journey filled with uncertainties. Lisa Bradshaw personally encountered this challenge when she received a cancer diagnosis. She faced it once again while providing care for her husband, Wesley, during his illness and subsequent lung transplant. Lisa's invaluable knowledge and firsthand experie…

Show Notes: Saving lives and educating the public about preventable deaths is part of our podcast’s mission. In this episode, we partner with our friends from the St. Tammany Parish Coroner's Office and the Louisiana Office of Public Health to talk about gun safety. Chris Knoblauch and Kristen Sanderson join us in the studio to talk about practical…

Show Notes: How does a family make a decision about donation, when their loved one's wishes about being a donor are unknown? Our guest, Jessica Andrade, shares the details of her family's intense discussions about making the decision to donate, and how her younger brother was able to save the lives of 4 people and hundreds with his tissue, skin and…

Show Notes: In the second episode in our 2 part series, we continue our conversation about the world's first HIV+ heart transplant. Recipient, Miriam Nieves, who along with her husband, Julio, share the intimate details of her journey through her illness. Hear more about the transplant that made history and how it brought Miriam full circle with th…

Show Notes: In November of 2022, a groundbreaking HIV+ heart transplant was announced at Montefiore Medical Center. LOPA was the first OPO in the world to recover an HIV+ heart for transplant. The heart was recovered from a Louisiana donor hero, Brittany Newton, and transported to New York. In this first episode of a two part series, Dr. Omar Saeed…

Show Notes: We talk to donor mom, Reecie Gilmore, who turned her experience with the loss of her young son into a mission to help others. Learn about The RescYou Group, the mission, their community and the services offered to grieving families. In our mental health moment, we chat about how to maintain balance in your mental health journey by using…

Show Notes: We reconnect with previous guests on episodes 160 and 169, Mark and Lynn Scotch, whose chance meeting during a leisure trip to Louisiana, saved another man's life through the living kidney donor voucher program. You don't want to miss the updates to their remarkable saga and learn where The Organ Trail has taken this inspiring couple no…

Show Notes: Have you considered giving the greatest gift, the gift of life? We are joined by authors and advocates, Elizabeth Crais, who's a kidney recipient, and Carol Offen, who has donated a kidney to her son. These two ladies have merged forces to help educate through their own life experiences with both kidney disease and living donation. In o…

Show Notes: A California prosecutor is using his personal story to encourage more people to register as marrow donors. Charlie Huang joins the podcast to talk about how his diagnosis led him to hope, healing and finally, advocacy. Learn about the new law he helped pass to make marrow donation as easy as registering as an organ, tissue and eye donor…

Show Notes: High school sweethearts, Lisa and Reid Barker, are authors of the book DeLivered. They join us to share their unique path and how organ donation has made an incredible impact on their lives, through the precious gift of life from a donor hero, and through living donation. In our mental health moment we chat about taking intentional step…

Show Notes: When a person allows passion to take the lead in their career, life thrives for professionals and the people they serve. Amy S. Peele, a nurse since 1974, discovered her passion for organ donation and transplantation when she kicked off her career as a transplant coordinator. Now, following a 35 year career in transplantation, Amy found…

Show Notes: Following a near death experience and subsequent heart and kidney transplant, Shana Pereira is sharing insights she gained to inspire others to have a better relationship with crisis. Hear how her remarkable story unfolds and how her holiday miracle, through the gift of life, has changed her life and in turn, is inspiring others. We tak…

Show Notes: CareDX is using artificial intelligence to help with the timely assessment of the likelihood of rejection in kidney transplant patients. AiKidney helps clinicians to predict kidney failure before it occurs and allows the medical team to make adjustments to reduce the risk of rejection. This fascinating technology is taking transplant ca…

Show Notes: Individuals from multiethnic communities make up the majority of the transplant waitlist in the United States. We welcome two guests to chat about how they are working together towards eradicating multiethnic bias in transplantation. Dr. John Goss, professor and chief of the Division of Abdominal Transplantation at Baylor College of Med…

Show Notes: It’s our 200th episode!!! To celebrate, we invited donor mom, Angie Calamari, and kidney recipient, Brooke Shapre, to the studio to take us on a donation journey that leads us full circle right back to LOPA in an unexpected way. Libbie Harrison, one of LOPA’s Family Support Coordinators, joins in and sets the framework for how this uniq…

Show Notes: A staggering statistic, children from 1 to 4 years of age are at the highest risk for drowning. Drowning prevention is a year-round essential education for all people, adults and parents alike. We welcome Chris Knoblauch with the St. Tammany Parish Coroner's Office and Kristen Sanderson, Injury Prevention Manager, with the Louisiana Dep…

Show Notes: Grieving is the process of rebuilding following a loss. In this episode we connect with donor mom and author, Autumn Jackson, to hear her story, and learn about her tips for growing with grief. She provides those who are grieving with resources, and she shares her newest outreach efforts through SODA, Student Organ Donation Advocates, a…

Show Notes: There are currently 57 Organ Procurement Organizations (OPO) throughout the United States. In a lively conversation, we connect with passionate President and CEO of LiveOnNY, Leonard Achan, to learn about how the gift of life has changed the trajectory of his career. Hear how his OPO is saving and healing lives in the Empire State, and …