One Decision, Two Lives: The Power of Organ Donation
Patient Story
Our very own Louise Lerminaux, Business Transformation Lead, and her lifelong friend Conna Jones recently chatted with Thermo Fisher Scientific’s Science With A Twist podcast about their journey as a donor and recipient pair.
As someone born with Polycystic Kidney Disease, Louise knew for many years that she may need dialysis as well as a kidney transplant. Thanks to her dear friend Conna, who was found to be a match shortly after giving birth, Louise was able to start a new chapter of her life in 2008 as a kidney recipient.
For more on Louise and Conna’s powerful story, check out Science With A Twist on Apple Podcasts, Spotify or your preferred podcasting app.
At just one-week old, Amelia needed a heart transplant. Discover how she's thriving, reaching baby milestones, and looking forward to many more.
Marcus Roberts went from pursuing a career of service to struggling to stay alive. Discover how a dual transplant has helped him live a healthier, fuller life.
Kadin Hoven is a 16-year-old music enthusiast and 3-time kidney transplant recipient. See his story and learn how you can help transplant patients like him.
After she received a heart transplant, Ava Kaufman made a promise to give back. Today, she saves lives by providing transplant housing to patients in need.
When Dayna and David met as college students, they never thought that 40 years later, Dayna would give David her kidney. Read the story of their kidney transplant journey and lifelong friendship.
This organization helps renal patients in diverse communities who have limited financial resources get access to transplant and donor information, assistance getting on the waitlist, help raise funds for medical expenses, and provide dietary and emotional support.
Dr. Kelley Hitchman shares her experience as a living kidney donor and an expert in transplant histocompatibility and immunogenetics at UT Health.
This Los Angeles-based organization provides critically needed assistance that insurance does not cover to transplant patients including the mandated pre- and post-transplant local housing, assisting donor families with burial expenses, and promoting organ donation.
In this video, our patient advocate, Valen Keefer, shares the emotions she felt when receiving a kidney transplant diagnosis and discusses ways to cope while processing the news.
Many children with life-threatening and chronic illnesses would not have the opportunity to have a camping experience. This summer camp provides these children the opportunity to meet other children sharing a similar experience and enjoy being a kid.
Keefer and Dr. Lawrence were in Boston to attend the 2022 ATC. Keefer hopes to encourage more Americans to become organ donors, and to serve as a resource for those facing future transplantation.
While each person’s journey is unique, here is an overview of what you can expect to experience before, during, and after your transplant.