Gift of Life

Join us in this episode as we dive into the inspiring story of Joe, a young boy with Down syndrome born with half a heart who defied all odds in his battle for life. Peg Eitl, Joe's mother, shares the incredible journey of their family's unwavering determination and resilience in the face of adversity.

From countless medical procedures to the brink of needing a heart and liver transplant, Joe's story is a testament to the strength of the human spirit. Against all odds, the family's refusal to give up led them to Vanderbilt University Medical Center in Nashville, Tennessee, where a glimmer of hope emerged. The road to a life-saving transplant was arduous, but with the support of a caring community, including Philadelphia Eagles star Brandon Graham, Joe's dream became a reality.

Must watch video of Joe and Brandon

Welcome to another inspiring episode of Gift of Life - The Organ Transplant Podcast! In this episode 25 we had the pleasure of speaking with the amazing Sophia Renner, the Engagement Manager at SODA: Student Organ Donation Advocates. SODA is a fantastic organization with chapters nationwide, spreading the message of the importance of organ and tissue donation among the youth. Sophia shared with us the incredible work being done by SODA, from high schools to college campuses and beyond. It's truly heartwarming to see the younger generation actively involved in teaching their peers about the gift of life through organ donation.

Join us this week on Gift of Life - The Organ Transplant Podcast as we sit down with the inspiring BJ Odom, who bravely shares his incredible journey of receiving not just one, but two life-saving organ transplants. In 2003, BJ received a heart transplant, followed by a kidney transplant in 2015. Despite facing immense challenges along the way, BJ's unwavering spirit and gratitude shines through as he reflects on how these transplants have allowed him to cherish every moment with his family and friends today.

Tune in as BJ delves into the profound impact of both living and deceased donors, shedding light on the critical need for more individuals to consider becoming organ donors. In this episode, BJ dispels common myths surrounding organ donation, paving the way for a better understanding and fostering a greater sense of awareness in our community.

Don't miss this heartwarming and enlightening conversation with BJ Odom, a true testament to the power of the Gift of Life. Join us as we explore the depths of gratitude, resilience, and the transformative journey of organ transplantation.

Gift of Life - The Organ Transplant Podcast is back with a heartwarming and inspirational new episode! In Episode 23, we are thrilled to have Haley Purdy as our special guest.

Haley is a courageous heart transplant survivor whose incredible journey began in 2013 when she was just 21 years old. Battling Dilated Cardiomyopathy (DCM), a condition that causes the heart to enlarge and struggle to pump blood effectively, Haley's story is one of resilience, hope, and the extraordinary power of organ donation.

Gift of Life - The Organ Transplant Podcast

 Join us this week for Episode 22 with special guest Alex Berrios!

Alex will be sharing his inspiring story of navigating high antibody levels and the challenges of finding a compatible organ donor. His experience sheds light on the importance of patience and perseverance in the transplant journey. Currently involved in a groundbreaking clinical study at the Transplant Institute at NYU, Alex will provide valuable insights into the study and offer a personal glimpse into his path to receiving a second transplant.

His resilience and determination are sure to inspire us all.

This weeks guest is: Melissa Tuff - Waiting for her second kidney transplant

  - Delayed due to antibodies from first transplant and blood transfusions. She introduced us to "hope, love, live dot org"

- Update:

  - Melissa is still waiting for her second kidney transplant

  - Any new developments or updates will be discussed in the current episode