The Gifted Life: Organ, Tissue and Eye Donation Podcast The Louisiana Organ Procurement Agency

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 naming his new donor kidney "Miracle." In our Mental Health Moment, we kick start a discussion about developing a vision for your life and where you want to go, and then round out the episode by honoring hero Jeremy Lewis.

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-saving organ donation and the subsequent loss of her cherished husband and father of her children, Kelli is committed to closing the donation gap. She aims to educate and inspire more people to register as organ, tissue, and eye donors. Additionally, we answer one of your questions and pay tribute to hero Jessica Wheat.

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 for the Fais Do-Donate which will be held April 27th, 2024. In our Mental Health Moment, we delve into tips for finding meaning in loss and we honor hero Jason Michael Williams.

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 life-saving hero through the gift of donation. Discover exclusive behind-the-scenes insights into the making of "Gifted: The Docuseries" and learn where you can experience its screenings. Additionally, in our Mental Health Moment, we tackle cognitive distortion and share practical tips for fostering a positive mindset. Lastly, we pay tribute to hero Kevin Pounds. Join us for an enriching and impactful experience.

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, eye, and bone marrow donation. Discover the profound impact of Aliye's Law and how Leah and Aliye's legacy continues to save lives through education. In our Mental Health Moment, we explore strategies for releasing the grip of control in various situations, and pay tribute to hero Shannon Langley.

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 prioritizing mental health and using tools such as those found at Mental Health America. Then, we honor hero Daniel Rees.