The Journey Continues

National Kidney Foundation of Illinois
  • 5.0 (25)
  • SOCIETY & CULTURE
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The Journey Continues is a podcast committed to promoting kidney health and organ donation through powerful stories. Host Monica Fox is a kidney transplant recipient and Director of Outreach and Government Relations for the National Kidney Foundation of Illinois. This series will feature the journeys of kidney patients, living donors, transplant recipients, donor families and industry experts who continue to educate the community through their own experiences and stories.

  1. One to Live, One to Give

    1D AGO

    One to Live, One to Give

    Mike Crowley has spent his career leading nonprofit organizations, but at 60 years old, he made a deeply personal decision that went beyond leadership. After visiting dialysis clinics and witnessing firsthand the daily reality of kidney failure, he chose to become a living kidney donor to someone he had never met. In this episode, Mike shares what sparked that decision, what the donation process actually looks like, and how one act of generosity can create a ripple effect through paired kidney exchange. He opens up about the emotional journey, the recovery process, and the life-changing impact of the voucher program. Hear how one visit turned into a mission.

    39 min
  2. From Patient to Power

    JAN 6

    From Patient to Power

    A life-changing diagnosis set Dr. Patrick Gee on a path that reshaped his purpose. In this episode, Patrick reflects on his kidney journey, the gaps in health literacy that fueled his advocacy, and how faith, perseverance, and lived experience transformed him from a patient into a powerful voice for health equity. His story is a reminder that advocacy begins when you choose to speak, not just for yourself, but for others who may not yet have the chance.

    34 min
  3. A Season of Giving: Still Connected at Heart

    12/24/2025

    A Season of Giving: Still Connected at Heart

    Christmas is a perfect time to share a story of life, love, and gratitude. This season of giving invites reflection on the impact one person can have on so many lives. As we reshare this special episode on Organ Donation Awareness, we highlight the powerful story of organ donor hero Mario Cousins, as told by his mother, Emma O’Neal, and his grateful heart recipient, Pam Morris Walton. Their journeys remain connected through the gift of life, a reminder that organ donation creates lasting bonds that extend far beyond a single moment.

    24 min
  4. Life, Gratitude, and Advocacy

    12/09/2025

    Life, Gratitude, and Advocacy

    When Curtis Warfield was diagnosed with kidney disease, his life changed forever. After receiving a life-saving living donor transplant, he chose not to focus on fear but on purpose. In this episode, he shares his powerful path from peritoneal dialysis to becoming a kidney advocate, peer mentor, and voice for patient-centered care. Hear how Curtis is working to advance legislation, support other patients, and push for research that truly reflects the patient experience.

    28 min
  5. Monica’s Thanksgiving Miracle

    12/03/2025

    Monica’s Thanksgiving Miracle

    In this special episode, host Monica Fox is interviewed by her daughter, Olivia Fox. Together, they share the emotional journey of Monica’s life-saving kidney transplant, reflect on the impact of this experience, and discuss the passion it sparked to help others facing kidney disease. Hear a story of hope, gratitude, and the power of family. This episode is sponsored by Fresenius Kidney Care.

    27 min
  6. Every Voice Counts

    11/11/2025

    Every Voice Counts

    Glenda Roberts has lived with kidney disease for decades, navigating the challenges of dialysis and transplant while carving a path as a national advocate. In this episode, she shares her journey from patient to leader, how she ensures patients’ voices are heard in research and healthcare, and practical advice for anyone looking to make an impact. Hear why Every Voice Counts in shaping the future of kidney care.

    38 min
  7. The Gift of Living

    10/28/2025

    The Gift of Living

    Becoming a living kidney donor is one of the most selfless acts a person can take, but it’s also a deeply personal decision. What does it really take to become a living donor? We explore the journey of donation, from the tests and surgeries to the emotional support along the way. Hear how one choice can change lives, bust common myths, and how one decision can change two lives forever.

    25 min
  8. A Sister’s Promise

    10/14/2025

    A Sister’s Promise

    When her brother’s kidney failure became life-threatening, Monique Hoskins didn’t hesitate: she stepped up as a living kidney donor. In this episode of The Journey Continues, Monique shares her decision-making process, the challenges of surgery and recovery, and how this selfless act brought her family closer together. She also discusses her mission to advocate for living donation, raising awareness, and inspiring others to make a difference.

    32 min
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5
out of 5
25 Ratings

About

The Journey Continues is a podcast committed to promoting kidney health and organ donation through powerful stories. Host Monica Fox is a kidney transplant recipient and Director of Outreach and Government Relations for the National Kidney Foundation of Illinois. This series will feature the journeys of kidney patients, living donors, transplant recipients, donor families and industry experts who continue to educate the community through their own experiences and stories.

Information

  • Creator
    National Kidney Foundation of Illinois
  • Years Active
    2020 - 2026
  • Episodes
    121
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © 2026 National Kidney Foundation of Illinois
  • Show Website
    The Journey Continues