Living Transplant: Patient Stories | Organ Donation | Medical Experts

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Living Transplant: Patient Stories | Organ Donation | Medical Experts is a podcast that takes you behind the scenes at the transplant program at Toronto General Hospital with the goal to educate, inspire and fuel your passion about transplant, with your host, Candice Coghlan, an Education & Outreach Coordinator at the Centre for Living Organ Donation at the UHN Ajmera Transplant Centre and a kidney transplant recipient.

  1. Jun 11

    Never Lose Hope: Jess Bailey on Community, Dragon Boats and the Gift of Life

    Growing up with kidney disease can feel isolating, but as this episode reminds us, you are never alone. In this episode of the Living Transplant Podcast, host Candice Coghlan sits down with longtime friend, advocate, transplant recipient and dragon boat coach Jess Bailey. Diagnosed with kidney disease as a child, Jess shares what it was like navigating school, friendships, dialysis and two kidney transplants while learning to embrace being different. Jess opens up about the realities of life after transplant, why a transplant is "a long-term temporary solution," and how community, peer support and sport have helped shape her journey. Together, Candice and Jess discuss the power of the Kidney Paired Donation Program, the importance of living donation, and the incredible impact that nurses, healthcare teams and fellow transplant recipients can have along the way. The conversation also explores the Transplant Games, dragon boating, survivor's guilt, adapting to dialysis, and why hope remains at the heart of the transplant community. Whether you're living with kidney disease, waiting for a transplant, supporting someone you love, or simply curious about organ donation, this episode is a reminder that there is always a community ready to welcome you. In This Episode Growing up with kidney disease and dialysisNavigating childhood and high school while feeling "different"Receiving a first kidney transplant as a child that lasted nearly 24 yearsLife after transplant and managing lifelong medicationsWhy transplant is not a cureFinding belonging through dragon boating and the Transplant GamesThe importance of peer support and patient communitiesAdvice for newly diagnosed kidney patientsUnderstanding the Kidney Paired Donation ProgramThe generosity of living organ donorsHope for the future of transplantation and medical innovationGratitude for healthcare teams and transplant nurses Links Learn more about living organ donation: www.livingorgandonation.ca Living Organ Donation at UHN: UHN Ajmera Transplant Centre Information Sessions for potential donors: givelifeuhn.eventbrite.ca  Becoming a living donor: https://www.uhn.ca/Transplant/Pages/become_living_donor.aspx Kidney Foundation of Canada: https://kidney.ca/  Kidney Paired Donation Program: https://blood.ca/en/organs-tissues/living-donation/kidney-paired-donation-program  Canadian Transplant Association and the Canadian Transplant Games: https://www.canadiantransplant.com   Each episode, we share patient stories about organ donation from transplant recipients and living donors, along with insights and education from leading medical experts. Whether you’re a patient, a caregiver, a donor, or simply curious about the world of organ transplantation, you’ll hear expert advice and inspiring journeys of hope, resilience, and second chances. About our Host Candice Coghlan is the Education & Outreach Coordinator at the Centre for Living Organ Donation at the UHN Ajmera Transplant Centre. She is also a board member for the National Kidney Foundation and a kidney transplant recipient. After she was diagnosed with kidney failure in her early 20s, she was on dialysis until receiving a transplant from her mother. Have questions? Comments? Ideas for an episode? Please reach out to the Centre for Living Organ Donation at livingorgandonation@uhn.ca. Thanks for spending your time with us. The views and opinions expressed in this episode do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of Toronto General or University Health Network.

    44 min

  2. May 28

    Beyond the Perfect Match: How HLA Science Is Changing Transplant

    What actually makes someone a “match” for organ transplant? And how close are we to a future where transplant compatibility becomes even more personalized? In this episode of Living Transplant Podcast, host Candice sits down with Jeff Kiernan from UHN’s HLA Lab to explore the hidden world of transplant immunology — the science that helps determine donor compatibility, monitor antibodies, and support long-term transplant success. Jeff breaks down what HLA is, why the idea of a “perfect match” is often misunderstood in solid organ transplant, and how new innovations are helping highly sensitized patients access life-saving organs. From molecular matching and immune response prediction to the future of organ preservation and personalized transplant care, this conversation offers a fascinating behind-the-scenes look at the science shaping the future of transplantation. Candice also reflects on her own experience as a kidney transplant recipient and what it means to live with the realities of sensitization, second transplants, and long-term graft survival. Whether you’re a transplant recipient, donor, healthcare professional, or simply curious about the incredible science happening behind the scenes, this episode shines a light on the people and technology working every day to help patients live longer, healthier lives. In This Episode:What HLA actually means and why it mattersThe truth about “perfect matches” in organ transplantHow antibodies affect transplant compatibilityWhy highly sensitized patients face additional challengesThe future of molecular matching and predictive transplant scienceHow UHN teams collaborate across transplant programsInnovations in organ preservation and perfusion technologyThe behind-the-scenes role of Medical Laboratory Technologists (MLTs) Links How UHN’s Transplant Immunology Lab matches patients with donor organs, stem cells: https://www.uhn.ca/corporate/News/Pages/uhn-transplant-immunology-lab-hla-matching.aspx Learn more about living organ donation: www.livingorgandonation.ca  Living Organ Donation at UHN: UHN Ajmera Transplant Centre Information Sessions for potential donors: givelifeuhn.eventbrite.ca  Becoming a living donor: https://www.uhn.ca/Transplant/Pages/become_living_donor.aspx CBS Highly Sensitized Patient Program: https://professionaleducation.blood.ca/en/organs-and-tissues/programs/highly-sensitized-patient-hsp-program  Each episode, we share patient stories about organ donation from transplant recipients and living donors, along with insights and education from leading medical experts. Whether you’re a patient, a caregiver, a donor, or simply curious about the world of organ transplantation, you’ll hear expert advice and inspiring journeys of hope, resilience, and second chances. About our Host Candice Coghlan is the Education & Outreach Coordinator at the Centre for Living Organ Donation at the UHN Ajmera Transplant Centre. She is also a board member for the National Kidney Foundation and a kidney transplant recipient. After she was diagnosed with kidney failure in her early 20s, she was on dialysis until receiving a transplant from her mother. Have questions? Comments? Ideas for an episode? Please reach out to the Centre for Living Organ Donation at livingorgandonation@uhn.ca. Thanks for spending your time with us. The views and opinions expressed in this episode do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of Toronto General or University Health Network.

    35 min

  3. May 7

    Eight Weeks for a Lifetime: Maigen’s Journey as a Living Liver Donor

    Discover Maigen’s powerful story of becoming a living liver donor during the uncertainty of COVID-19—and how one spontaneous “why not?” turned into a life-saving decision. In this episode of Living Transplant, Maigen shares how a lighthearted comment between family became the beginning of an extraordinary journey. Rooted in love, resilience, and a deep sense of care for others, her story highlights the emotional and physical realities of living donation, the strength of family bonds, and the perspective shift that comes with giving a part of yourself to save a life. From navigating the transplant process during a global pandemic to redefining her relationship with her body and her future, Maigen offers an honest and inspiring look at what it truly means to be a living donor. In this episode, we explore: Maigen’s spontaneous decision to become a living liver donor during the early days of COVID-19How a simple “why not?” mindset led to a life-changing journeyThe realities of donor testing, including unexpected challenges like rapid weight lossNavigating transplant logistics and emotional stress during a global pandemicThe importance of communication, advocacy, and support systems throughout the processWhat recovery really looks like—and how quickly life can begin to feel “normal” againThe evolving meaning of her transplant scar—from insecurity to a badge of honourThe impact of donation on family relationships, identity, and future outlookAdvice for potential donors and caregivers navigating uncertaintyLinks  Learn more about living organ donation: www.livingorgandonation.ca  Living Liver Donation at UHN: UHN Ajmera Transplant Centre Information Sessions for potential donors: givelifeuhn.eventbrite.ca  Becoming a living donor: https://www.uhn.ca/Transplant/Pages/become_living_donor.aspx Each episode, we share patient stories about organ donation from transplant recipients and living donors, along with insights and education from leading medical experts. Whether you’re a patient, a caregiver, a donor, or simply curious about the world of organ transplantation, you’ll hear expert advice and inspiring journeys of hope, resilience, and second chances. About our Host Candice Coghlan is the Education & Outreach Coordinator at the Centre for Living Organ Donation at the UHN Ajmera Transplant Centre. She is also a board member for the National Kidney Foundation and a kidney transplant recipient. After she was diagnosed with kidney failure in her early 20s, she was on dialysis until receiving a transplant from her mother. Have questions? Comments? Ideas for an episode? Please reach out to the Centre for Living Organ Donation at livingorgandonation@uhn.ca. Thanks for spending your time with us. The views and opinions expressed in this episode do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of Toronto General or University Health Network.

    37 min

  4. Apr 16

    You Don’t Look Sick: Fadia on Invisible Illness, Advocacy, Redefining Life on Dialysis, and the Transplant Journey

    In this powerful episode of Living Transplant, Fadia shares her deeply personal journey through kidney disease, receiving a living donor transplant from her sister, and now navigating a return to dialysis. With honesty and vulnerability, she reflects on the evolution of her mindset—from a “go, go, go” approach to one rooted in acceptance, rest, and self-compassion. Fadia opens up about the realities of invisible illness, balancing motherhood and a demanding career in education, and the emotional complexity of asking for and receiving help. She also speaks to the power of community through the ACB Organ Health Committee, and how advocacy, culturally safe care, and representation are critical in improving outcomes for Black patients. This episode is a reminder that transplant is not a cure, but part of a lifelong journey. Fadia’s story encourages listeners to slow down, speak up, and redefine what strength truly looks like. Key TopicsLiving donor kidney transplant and sibling donationReturning to dialysis after transplantRedefining “balance” and embracing restInvisible illness and “you don’t look sick”Motherhood, career, and chronic illnessThe importance of support systems and asking for helpPatient advocacy and being the expert of your own bodyNavigating the healthcare system and medical mistrustCultural safety and equity in organ donation and transplantationThe impact of community: ACB Organ Health Committee Links Learn more about living organ donation: www.livingorgandonation.ca Living Kidney & Liver Donation at UHN: UHN Ajmera Transplant Centre Information Sessions for potential donors: givelifeuhn.eventbrite.ca  Becoming a living donor: https://www.uhn.ca/Transplant/Pages/become_living_donor.aspx ACB Organ Health Committee & Green Table Talk: https://www.youtube.com/@acborganhealth   Black Health Alliance: https://blackhealthalliance.ca Kidney Foundation of Canada – Living Donation https://kidney.ca/Get-Involved/Be-a-Living-Donor Trillium Gift of Life Network – Organ Donation in Ontario https://www.giftoflife.on.ca Each episode, we share patient stories about organ donation from transplant recipients and living donors, along with insights and education from leading medical experts. Whether you’re a patient, a caregiver, a donor, or simply curious about the world of organ transplantation, you’ll hear expert advice and inspiring journeys of hope, resilience, and second chances. About our Host Candice Coghlan is the Education & Outreach Coordinator at the Centre for Living Organ Donation at the UHN Ajmera Transplant Centre. She is also a board member for the National Kidney Foundation and a kidney transplant recipient. After she was diagnosed with kidney failure in her early 20s, she was on dialysis until receiving a transplant from her mother. Have questions? Comments? Ideas for an episode? Please reach out to the Centre for Living Organ Donation at livingorgandonation@uhn.ca. Thanks for spending your time with us. The views and opinions expressed in this episode do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of Toronto General or University Health Network.

    38 min

  5. Apr 2

    Behind Every Transplant: Inside Toronto General's Outpatient Transplant Pharmacy

    What happens after transplant—when the surgery is over and real life begins? In this episode of Living Transplant, we’re joined by Eugenia Chan, a pharmacist from the Transplant Outpatient Pharmacy (TOP) at UHN, to explore the critical (and often unseen) role pharmacy teams play in a patient’s lifelong transplant journey. Unlike a typical pharmacy, TOP is fully integrated into the transplant program—supporting over 5,000 patients each year from the moment they leave the hospital and throughout their lives. From medication management to financial navigation, this team is a constant, trusted connection for patients. Together, we unpack how this specialized care improves outcomes, reduces complications, and helps patients feel less alone in what can be an overwhelming experience. In This Episode, We Cover: Why transplant pharmacy is differentHow TOP provides continuous, specialized care that goes far beyond dispensing medications.Medication adherence made easierThe impact of blister packaging, delivery across Ontario, and proactive dose management in helping patients stay on track, catching complications earlyHow frequent check-ins and strong patient relationships help pharmacists identify side effects and concerns before they become serious.Navigating medication fearsHonest conversations about side effects, what to expect, and how care teams adjust treatment to fit each patient’s needs.What transplant patients need to know about over-the-counter medications, supplements, and everyday risks.Breaking down financial barriersHow medication reimbursement specialists help patients access coverage, reduce out-of-pocket costs, and navigate complex insurance systems.The future of transplant pharmacyInnovations like blister pack automation, refill reminders, and text-based systems designed to make care even more accessible. Links and Resources Learn more about the UHN Transplant Outpatient Pharmacy (TOP): https://www.uhn.ca/Transplant/TOP Learn more about living organ donation: www.livingorgandonation.ca Living Kidney & Liver Donation at UHN: UHN Ajmera Transplant Centre Information Sessions for potential donors: givelifeuhn.eventbrite.ca  Becoming a living donor: https://www.uhn.ca/Transplant/Pages/become_living_donor.aspx Kidney Foundation of Canada – Living Donation https://kidney.ca/Get-Involved/Be-a-Living-Donor Trillium Gift of Life Network – Organ Donation in Ontario https://www.giftoflife.on.ca Each episode, we share patient stories about organ donation from transplant recipients and living donors, along with insights and education from leading medical experts. Whether you’re a patient, a caregiver, a donor, or simply curious about the world of organ transplantation, you’ll hear expert advice and inspiring journeys of hope, resilience, and second chances. About our Host Candice Coghlan is the Education & Outreach Coordinator at the Centre for Living Organ Donation at the UHN Ajmera Transplant Centre. She is also a board member for the National Kidney Foundation and a kidney transplant recipient. After she was diagnosed with kidney failure in her early 20s, she was on dialysis until receiving a transplant from her mother. Have questions? Comments? Ideas for an episode? Please reach out to the Centre for Living Organ Donation at livingorgandonation@uhn.ca. Thanks for spending your time with us. The views and opinions expressed in this episode do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of Toronto General or University Health Network.

    38 min

  6. Mar 19

    A Second Chance for Love: Emma’s Determination to Donate a Kidney at 79 | Patient Stories, Organ Donation and Medical Experts

    Emma didn’t see herself as brave — she simply saw a problem and knew she could help. At 79 years old, Emma became a living kidney donor for her husband after he began dialysis. But the path to donation wasn’t straightforward. After initially being turned away during her first evaluation due to concerns about blood sugar levels, Emma refused to give up. She advocated for herself, gathered medical evidence from her family doctor, and wrote a heartfelt letter asking for a second chance to be assessed. That persistence led her to the Toronto General Hospital Living Donor Program, where she was ultimately approved to donate. In this episode, Emma shares the deeply personal journey of advocating for herself, navigating the evaluation process, and donating a kidney to the person she has spent her life with. She reflects on why she never felt fear about the surgery, how dialysis affected their lives together, and why she believes more people should consider living donation — regardless of age. Now recovering just weeks after surgery, Emma is already looking ahead to what matters most: more time together, traveling again, and enjoying the life they’ve built side by side. Her message is simple but powerful: if you are healthy and willing to help, one kidney can change someone’s life. Links and Resources Learn more about living organ donation: www.livingorgandonation.ca Living Kidney & Liver Donation at UHN: UHN Ajmera Transplant Centre Information Sessions for potential donors: givelifeuhn.eventbrite.ca  Becoming a living donor: https://www.uhn.ca/Transplant/Pages/become_living_donor.aspx Kidney Foundation of Canada – Living Donation https://kidney.ca/Get-Involved/Be-a-Living-Donor Trillium Gift of Life Network – Organ Donation in Ontario https://www.giftoflife.on.ca Each episode, we share patient stories about organ donation from transplant recipients and living donors, along with insights and education from leading medical experts. Whether you’re a patient, a caregiver, a donor, or simply curious about the world of organ transplantation, you’ll hear expert advice and inspiring journeys of hope, resilience, and second chances. About our Host Candice Coghlan is the Education & Outreach Coordinator at the Centre for Living Organ Donation at the UHN Ajmera Transplant Centre. She is also a board member for the National Kidney Foundation and a kidney transplant recipient. After she was diagnosed with kidney failure in her early 20s, she was on dialysis until receiving a transplant from her mother. Have questions? Comments? Ideas for an episode? Please reach out to the Centre for Living Organ Donation at livingorgandonation@uhn.ca. Thanks for spending your time with us. The views and opinions expressed in this episode do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of Toronto General or University Health Network.

    30 min

  7. Mar 8

    International Women’s Day: Dr. Irene Kim on Motherhood, Mentorship & Transplant Leadership

    In this special International Women’s Day bonus episode of the Living Transplant Podcast, we sit down with Dr. Irene Kim — abdominal transplant surgeon, Director of the Transplant Center at Cedars-Sinai, and the Esther and Mark Schulman Endowed Chair in Transplant Medicine. Beyond her many titles, Dr. Kim is also a mentor, a leader, and a mother. In this thoughtful and deeply human conversation, she reflects on the realities of balancing a demanding surgical career with family life, the mentors who shaped her journey in transplant medicine, and the lessons that come with leadership. Dr. Kim shares why motherhood has been one of the most humbling roles in her life, how strong support systems make success possible, and why mentorship doesn’t have to be gendered. She also opens up about how personal experiences with illness can reshape the way physicians connect with their patients. The episode closes with a powerful reflection inspired by author J.D. Salinger — a reminder that in a world constantly pushing us to do more and be more, sometimes the most meaningful realization is simply knowing when we already have enough. In honour of International Women’s Day, this conversation celebrates the women leading, caring, mentoring, and shaping the future of medicine and our communities. Links and Resources Cedars-Sinai Medical Center: https://www.cedars-sinai.org J.D. Salinger, The Catcher in the Rye: https://www.amazon.com/Catcher-Rye-J-D-Salinger/dp/0316769487 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/irene-kim International Women’s Day: https://www.internationalwomensday.com/ UHN Women: https://www.uhn.ca/corporate/AboutUHN/UHNWomen  Learn more about living organ donation: www.livingorgandonation.ca Living Kidney & Liver Donation at UHN: UHN Ajmera Transplant Centre Information Sessions for potential donors: givelifeuhn.eventbrite.ca   Each episode, we share patient stories about organ donation from transplant recipients and living donors, along with insights and education from leading medical experts. Whether you’re a patient, a caregiver, a donor, or simply curious about the world of organ transplantation, you’ll hear expert advice and inspiring journeys of hope, resilience, and second chances. About our Host Candice Coghlan is the Education & Outreach Coordinator at the Centre for Living Organ Donation at the UHN Ajmera Transplant Centre. She is also a board member for the National Kidney Foundation and a kidney transplant recipient. After she was diagnosed with kidney failure in her early 20s, she was on dialysis until receiving a transplant from her mother. Have questions? Comments? Ideas for an episode? Please reach out to the Centre for Living Organ Donation at livingorgandonation@uhn.ca. Thanks for spending your time with us. The views and opinions expressed in this episode do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of Toronto General or University Health Network.

    17 min

  8. Mar 5

    Guiding the Gift: Behind the Scenes with a Living Kidney Donor Coordinator

    What really happens when someone decides to become a living kidney donor? In this episode of Living Transplant, Candice sits down with UHN living donor kidney coordinator Melinda Skadorwa to unpack the full donor journey — from the first health questionnaire to surgery day and beyond. Melinda shares how she found her way into transplant nursing, what a typical (and often unpredictable) day looks like, and the most common fears and misconceptions she hears from potential donors. The conversation explores the emotional and logistical realities of donation, including financial barriers, white coat anxiety, and the importance of strong support systems. Listeners will also learn how innovative programs like Kidney Paired Donation and List Exchange are helping more Canadians receive life-saving transplants — even when donors and recipients aren’t compatible. Whether you’re considering donation, supporting someone who is, or simply curious about how living donation works, this episode offers an honest and compassionate look behind the scenes. What You’ll Learn in This Episode: How Melinda’s path led her into transplant careWhat living donor coordinators actually doStep-by-step overview of the living donor evaluation processCommon myths and fears about kidney donationLife after donation: recovery and long-term outlookHow Kidney Paired Donation expands transplant access across CanadaThe unique impact of non-directed (anonymous) donorsBarriers donors may face — including financial and system challengesEmotional supports available for living donorsAdvice for anyone thinking about becoming a donor Links and Resources Learn more about living organ donation: www.livingorgandonation.ca Living Kidney Donation at UHN: UHN Ajmera Transplant Centre Kidney Paired Donation Program: Kidney Paired Donation Program Financial Support for Living Donors: https://www.eventbrite.ca/e/financial-support-for-living-organ-donors-tickets-60824861799?aff=ebdsoporgprofile Information about Becoming a Living Kidney Donor: https://www.eventbrite.ca/e/information-for-potential-living-kidney-donors-tickets-62066475499?aff=ebdsoporgprofile  Each episode, we share patient stories about organ donation from transplant recipients and living donors, along with insights and education from leading medical experts. Whether you’re a patient, a caregiver, a donor, or simply curious about the world of organ transplantation, you’ll hear expert advice and inspiring journeys of hope, resilience, and second chances. About our Host Candice Coghlan is the Education & Outreach Coordinator at the Centre for Living Organ Donation at the UHN Ajmera Transplant Centre. She is also a board member for the National Kidney Foundation and a kidney transplant recipient. After she was diagnosed with kidney failure in her early 20s, she was on dialysis until receiving a transplant from her mother. Have questions? Comments? Ideas for an episode? Please reach out to the Centre for Living Organ Donation at livingorgandonation@uhn.ca. Thanks for spending your time with us. The views and opinions expressed in this episode do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of Toronto General or University Health Network.

    37 min
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Living Transplant: Patient Stories | Organ Donation | Medical Experts is a podcast that takes you behind the scenes at the transplant program at Toronto General Hospital with the goal to educate, inspire and fuel your passion about transplant, with your host, Candice Coghlan, an Education & Outreach Coordinator at the Centre for Living Organ Donation at the UHN Ajmera Transplant Centre and a kidney transplant recipient.

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