The Journey Continues National Kidney Foundation of Illinois

Dr. Aleksandra Gmurczyk cares for dozens of patients who are waiting for a kidney as a busy nephrologist. Her care for her patients extended far above and beyond the Hippocratic Oath of “do no harm” when she chose to become a living example by donating her own kidney. And saving two lives in the process!

Gospel artist and worship leader Kevin Vasser’s faith has carried him through so many life experiences.  When he learned he needed a kidney transplant, he relied on his faith yet again to help him thrive, not just survive.
 
Follow Kevin and his musical career at kevinvasser.com, on Twitter and Instagram @kevinvasser, and on Facebook @kevinvasser15

When meteorologist Ed Curran learned his kidneys were failing and he’d need a transplant, he kept his health issues private from his CBS audience.  Thanks to another CBS broadcast 4 hours away, his sister Patti Orthwein decided to step up as his living donor.   Follow Ed on social media: Twitter: @edcurran Facebook: facebook.com/edcurran Instagram: instagram.com/edcurran   Follow Patti on Facebook: facebook.com/PattiOrthwein

For those on the transplant waiting list, finding the right transplant center can sometimes be difficult. For veterans, there are even fewer options. Dr. Manpreet Samra and the rest of the transplant team at the Hines VA hospital opened the Kidney Transplant Center just a few short years ago to help provide further access for those who have served   Follow the Hines VA Kidney Transplant Center on Twitter at @VATransplantCHI  

Author and advocate Amy S. Peele relies on her sense of humor and experience as a retired transplant nurse to inspire her mystery novels with a cause.   Find Amy’s books at amyspeele.com and follow her on social media at @amyspeeleauthor on Facebook and @amypeele on Instagram.

Pageant contestants are required to speak eloquently on a social cause close to their hearts. For Jessica Tilton, the reigning Miss Quad Cities whose father was waiting for a kidney, there was no question what cause she would choose.   Happily, shortly after this episode was recorded, Jessica’s father got the call and received his life-saving kidney transplant! Follow Jessica on social media @MissQuadCities on Facebook and @MissQuadCities2023 and @jessica_tilton on Instagram.