Living Transplant: Patient Stories | Organ Donation | Medical Experts

Épisodes

• Never Lose Hope: Jess Bailey on Community, Dragon Boats and the Gift of Life 11.06.2026 43min

  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 EpisodeGrowing 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 nursesLinks Learn more about living organ donation: www.livingorgandonation.ca Living Organ Donation at UHN: UHN Ajmera Transplant CentreInformation Sessions for potential donors: givelifeuhn.eventbrite.ca  Becoming a living donor: https://www.uhn.ca/Transplant/Pages/become_living_donor.aspxKidney 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 HostCandice 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.
• Beyond the Perfect Match: How HLA Science Is Changing Transplant 28.05.2026 34min

  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 CentreInformation Sessions for potential donors: givelifeuhn.eventbrite.ca  Becoming a living donor: https://www.uhn.ca/Transplant/Pages/become_living_donor.aspxCBS 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 HostCandice 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.
• Eight Weeks for a Lifetime: Maigen’s Journey as a Living Liver Donor 07.05.2026 37min

  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 CentreInformation Sessions for potential donors: givelifeuhn.eventbrite.ca  Becoming a living donor: https://www.uhn.ca/Transplant/Pages/become_living_donor.aspxEach 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 HostCandice 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.
• You Don’t Look Sick: Fadia on Invisible Illness, Advocacy, Redefining Life on Dialysis, and the Transplant Journey 16.04.2026 38min

  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 CommitteeLinks Learn more about living organ donation: www.livingorgandonation.caLiving Kidney & Liver Donation at UHN: UHN Ajmera Transplant CentreInformation Sessions for potential donors: givelifeuhn.eventbrite.ca  Becoming a living donor: https://www.uhn.ca/Transplant/Pages/become_living_donor.aspxACB Organ Health Committee & Green Table Talk: https://www.youtube.com/@acborganhealth  Black Health Alliance: https://blackhealthalliance.caKidney Foundation of Canada – Living Donation https://kidney.ca/Get-Involved/Be-a-Living-DonorTrillium Gift of Life Network – Organ Donation in Ontariohttps://www.giftoflife.on.caEach 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 HostCandice 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.
• Behind Every Transplant: Inside Toronto General's Outpatient Transplant Pharmacy 02.04.2026 38min

  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 ResourcesLearn more about the UHN Transplant Outpatient Pharmacy (TOP): https://www.uhn.ca/Transplant/TOP Learn more about living organ donation: www.livingorgandonation.caLiving Kidney & Liver Donation at UHN: UHN Ajmera Transplant CentreInformation Sessions for potential donors: givelifeuhn.eventbrite.ca  Becoming a living donor: https://www.uhn.ca/Transplant/Pages/become_living_donor.aspxKidney Foundation of Canada – Living Donation https://kidney.ca/Get-Involved/Be-a-Living-DonorTrillium Gift of Life Network – Organ Donation in Ontariohttps://www.giftoflife.on.caEach 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 HostCandice 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.
• A Second Chance for Love: Emma’s Determination to Donate a Kidney at 79 | Patient Stories, Organ Donation and Medical Experts 19.03.2026 29min

  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 ResourcesLearn more about living organ donation: www.livingorgandonation.caLiving Kidney & Liver Donation at UHN: UHN Ajmera Transplant CentreInformation Sessions for potential donors: givelifeuhn.eventbrite.ca  Becoming a living donor: https://www.uhn.ca/Transplant/Pages/become_living_donor.aspxKidney Foundation of Canada – Living Donation https://kidney.ca/Get-Involved/Be-a-Living-DonorTrillium Gift of Life Network – Organ Donation in Ontariohttps://www.giftoflife.on.caEach 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 HostCandice 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.
• International Women’s Day: Dr. Irene Kim on Motherhood, Mentorship & Transplant Leadership 08.03.2026 16min

  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 ResourcesCedars-Sinai Medical Center: https://www.cedars-sinai.orgJ.D. Salinger, The Catcher in the Rye: https://www.amazon.com/Catcher-Rye-J-D-Salinger/dp/0316769487LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/irene-kimInternational Women’s Day: https://www.internationalwomensday.com/ UHN Women: https://www.uhn.ca/corporate/AboutUHN/UHNWomen Learn more about living organ donation: www.livingorgandonation.caLiving Kidney & Liver Donation at UHN: UHN Ajmera Transplant CentreInformation 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 HostCandice 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.
• Guiding the Gift: Behind the Scenes with a Living Kidney Donor Coordinator 05.03.2026 37min

  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 donorLinks and ResourcesLearn more about living organ donation: www.livingorgandonation.caLiving Kidney Donation at UHN: UHN Ajmera Transplant CentreKidney Paired Donation Program: Kidney Paired Donation ProgramFinancial 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 HostCandice 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.
• One Liver for Life: Pediatric Liver Transplants | Patient Stories, Organ Donation and Medical Experts 19.02.2026 46min

  In this episode of the Living Transplant Podcast, host Candice Coghlan speaks with Dr. Blayne Sayed, transplant and hepatobiliary surgeon at SickKids and UHN, about the complexity and emotional depth of pediatric liver transplantation. Dr. Sayed shares what makes children’s liver surgery uniquely challenging, how families navigate the transplant journey, and why long-term relationships between care teams and families matter so deeply.They explore the powerful role of living liver donation, advances in transplant science and immune research, and emerging technologies like organ perfusion that may improve outcomes and expand the donor pool. Dr. Sayed also discusses the future of transplant care — including reducing immunosuppression, protecting organs from injury, and building stronger transition supports for children growing into adult care.Did you know that when a child needs a liver donor, both donor evaluation and surgery take place at UHN — a powerful reflection of our strong partnership in pediatric living donor transplantation.Key TakeawaysPediatric liver transplantation involves highly complex, technically demanding surgery on very small patients.Families often face a long and emotionally intense journey from diagnosis to transplant.Living liver donation is a critical lifeline for children and helps reduce wait times and risk.Strong collaboration between SickKids and UHN supports seamless donor evaluation and surgery.Long-term relationships between transplant teams and families are central to pediatric care.Research into liver injury and immune response may help reduce rejection and improve long-term outcomes.New organ perfusion technologies could allow organs to be treated and optimized before transplant.Some liver transplant recipients may eventually be able to safely minimize or stop immunosuppression.Better transition programs are needed to support teens moving from pediatric to adult transplant care.Innovation in transplant science is accelerating and holds real promise for children.Connect with the Podcast or Learn more about Organ DonationClick here for more information about living organ donation.Click here to learn more about liver transplantationClick here to hear stories about living organ donors and recipientsClick here to learn more about Sick Kids liver transplant programCentre for Living Organ Donation on InstagramAjmera Transplant Centre on InstagramEach 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 HostCandice 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.
• A Toddler Transplant: How Daddy's Liver Saved Camilla's Life | Patient Stories, Organ Donation and Medical Experts 05.02.2026 54min

  In this heartwarming episode of the Living Transplant podcast, we welcome Bianca and Joseph to share the incredible journey of their daughter, Camilla. Initially born healthy, Camilla’s persistent jaundice led to a life-changing diagnosis of biliary atresia at just four weeks old. After a failed Kasai procedure, the family was thrust into survival mode at SickKids Hospital, facing the terrifying reality that their infant daughter needed a liver transplant to survive. Joseph recounts the emotional process of becoming his daughter’s living donor, transforming a time of immense fear into a story of profound sacrifice and paternal love.The couple opens up about the unique challenge of having two family members in surgery simultaneously and the unforgettable relief of their reunification during recovery. Now nearly three years post-transplant, Camilla is a thriving toddler, hitting every milestone. Bianca discusses how they navigate “mom guilt,” the importance of normalizing Camilla’s transplant scar, and the vital role of the “poop chart” in early diagnosis. Their story is a testament to the resilience of families, the power of advocacy, and the miracle of organ donation.Connect with the Podcast or Learn more about Organ DonationClick here for more information about living organ donation.Click here for more information about living kidney transplantation. Click here for more information about Polycystic Kidney Disease. Ajmera Transplant Centre on InstagramEach 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 HostCandice 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.
• Reimagining Healthcare: Advocacy, Equity, and Dignity with Kamika Sylvester, RN | Patient Stories, Organ Donation and Medical Experts 22.01.2026 52min

  In this powerful episode of The Living Transplant Podcast, host Candice Coghlan is joined by Kamika Sylvester, RN — nurse, patient advocate, nonprofit founder, and tech entrepreneur — for a deeply honest conversation about racism in healthcare, patient advocacy, and reimagining what truly equitable care can look like. Kamika shares her journey as a patient first, navigating a life-altering diagnosis at just 18 years old, and how that experience shaped her path into nursing, advocacy, and systems change. Together, Candice and Kamika unpack why mistrust exists in healthcare for many racialized communities, how bias and burnout impact both patients and providers, and why dignity and listening must be at the centre of care.Listeners will also learn Kamika’s practical ABCDs of Advocacy, a simple but powerful framework to help patients and families navigate complex healthcare systems with confidence:A – Adjust your attitudeB – Bring backupC – Have concise conversationsD – Keep detailed documentationThe conversation also explores:Why representation in healthcare teams matters for patient outcomesHow burnout affects healthcare providers — especially those from racialized communitiesWhat real cultural safety looks like beyond “checkbox” trainingHow healthcare leaders, providers, and allies can use their privilege to create meaningful changeWhat a truly inclusive, reimagined healthcare system could look likeThis episode is essential listening for patients, caregivers, healthcare professionals, and anyone committed to building a more just, compassionate, and equitable healthcare system.LinksCentre for Living Organ DonationAjmera Transplant CentreCode Melanin – Supporting Black, Indigenous, and racialized healthcare professionals and addressing burnoutThe Black Birth Project – Advancing equity in maternal and birth outcomesGreen Table Talk (ACB Organ Health Committee) – Community conversations on organ health and equityEach 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 HostCandice 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.
• “I See You”: Indigenous Kidney Health, Cultural Safety, and Reimagining Care | Patient Stories, Organ Donation and Medical Experts 08.01.2026 44min

  In this powerful episode of The Living Transplant Podcast, host Candice Coghlan is joined by Crystal Hardy, a First Nations patient, researcher, and advocate whose lived experience with dialysis and kidney transplantation deeply informs her work in Indigenous kidney health.Crystal shares her journey through kidney failure, dialysis, and transplant — not just as a patient navigating a complex healthcare system, but as a researcher working to transform it. She reflects on the moment she realized that life on dialysis could still be full of purpose, the importance of feeling seen within healthcare, and how cultural safety, trust, and community connection directly impact health outcomes.Together, Candice and Crystal explore the systemic barriers First Nations patients face, including geographic isolation, under-referral for transplant, cultural mismatch in care, and inadequate navigation and relocation supports. Crystal introduces the Indigenous Kidney Health Project, explaining how Indigenous storywork and the Two-Eyed Seeing framework are being used to identify gaps in kidney care and reimagine more equitable, culturally congruent systems.This episode is a moving, insightful conversation about advocacy, food sovereignty, patient partnership, and hope — and a reminder that kidney care must meet people where they are, honour who they are, and listen to the stories they carry.What You’ll Learn in This EpisodeHow Crystal’s lived experience as a dialysis and transplant patient shaped her research and advocacyWhy feeling seen and heard is foundational to culturally safe kidney careThe real-world barriers First Nations patients face when accessing dialysis and transplantationWhy Indigenous patients are referred for transplant significantly less often — and what needs to changeWhat the Indigenous Kidney Health Project is and why patient voices lead the workHow Two-Eyed Seeing blends Indigenous knowledge with biomedical researchThe role of food sovereignty and traditional foods in kidney healthWhy connection, purpose, and peer support are essential on the kidney journeyHow healthcare systems can move from “cultural training” to truly individualized, respectful careKey TakeawaysKidney disease is a lifelong journey — transplantation is not a cure, but a transitionCultural safety is not a checklist; it is built through trust, listening, and relationshipsGeography and relocation create profound inequities in access to kidney careIndigenous patients must be partners and leaders in research about their careFood, culture, language, and community are inseparable from health outcomesPurpose and peer connection can be life-sustaining during dialysis and transplant journeysSystemic change is possible — and already beginning — when patients are centeredNotable Quotes“I was my own best case study.”“I see you.”“You can’t reform the system if you don’t know what people are actually living through.”“Transplant isn’t a cure — it’s a different way of living with care.”About the GuestCrystal N. Hardy is a First Nations kidney patient, researcher, and advocate whose work focuses on Indigenous kidney health, cultural safety, and equitable access to transplantation. Drawing from her own experiences with dialysis and transplant, Crystal leads research that centers Indigenous voices, storywork, and patient partnership to address systemic gaps in kidney care.If you are a First Nations patient, caregiver, or healthcare provider interested in supporting or participating in the Indigenous Kidney Health Project, Crystal welcomes connection, please reach out to cnhardy@lakeheadu.ca About the HostCandice Coghlan is the Education & Outreach Coordinator at the Centre for Living Organ Donation at the UHN Ajmera Transplant Centre. She is also a kidney transplant recipient and board member of the National Kidney Foundation. Diagnosed with kidney failure in her early 20s, Candice spent time on dialysis before receiving a living donor kidney transplant from her mother.Resources & LinksLearn more about living organ donation: www.livingorgandonation.caLiving Kidney Donation at UHN: UHN Ajmera Transplant CentreLiving with Kidney Disease Thunder Bay Event Recording: Living with Kidney DiseaseCrystal Hardy Story 1:49:56CanSOLVE CKD Indigenous People’s Engagement & Research CouncilGet In TouchHave questions, comments, or ideas for a future episode?Email the Centre for Living Organ Donation at livingorgandonation@uhn.caDisclaimer:The views and opinions expressed in this episode do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of Toronto General Hospital or the University Health Network.
• Amy's Reflections from the First 25 Years of a Kidney Transplant Journey | Patient Stories, Organ Donation and Medical Experts 18.12.2025 40min

  In this episode of the Living Transplant podcast, host Candice Coghlan turns the microphone on the show’s very own producer, Amy Schluter. Amy is a podcast host and producer, an entrepreneur, a mom of three and now a 25-year kidney transplant recipient. As we celebrate this incredible milestone of twenty-five years since her kidney transplant, Amy joins Candice for a heartfelt, funny, and deeply honest conversation about her unexpected diagnosis at 25, the life-changing gift from her sister, and what it’s like to build a full, vibrant life in the decades that follow. It’s a journey defined by resilience, creativity, and the joy of living life to the fullest.A transplant isn’t a cure, but there have been significant advances over the last 25 years. Amy takes us back to the year 2000, discussing the technological landscape of transplantation at the time and how laparoscopic surgery was a groundbreaking procedure for her donor, her sister Kelly. Candice and Amy discuss the evolution of transplant care, from the early days of "Timex watch" medication reminders to the modern era of health tech.Listeners will hear inspiring stories about Amy’s high-risk pregnancy with twins, the messy, emotional realities of recovery, including a memorable blender explosion and her hopes for the future, from organ cloning dreams to simply staying healthy to watch her kids grow. Whether you’re newly diagnosed, newly transplanted, or decades into your journey, a caregiver or a medical professional, this conversation offers inspiration, humour, and a unique perspective drawn from decades of lived transplant experience. It’s a powerful testament to the longevity and quality of life possible after transplantation.Key Takeaways:The 25-Year Milestone: Amy reflects on living longer with her transplant than without it.Pregnancy and Twins: A look at the rare and high-risk journey of carrying twins as a transplant recipient and the medical curiosity it sparked at St. Michael's Hospital.Technological Advancements: How transplant surgery and aftercare have evolved over the last two decades.Balancing Act: Insights on managing a career as a serial entrepreneur and podcast producer while prioritizing health and family.Mental Resilience: Overcoming the trauma of diagnosis and the importance of community support.Links and ResourcesChef Over Your Shoulder PodcastBespoke ProductionsKidney Foundation Peer SupportPregnancy & Kidney DiseaseTransplant Pregnancy RegistryConnect with the Podcast or Learn more about Organ DonationClick here for more information about living organ donation.Click here for more information about living kidney transplantation. Centre for Living Organ Donation on InstagramAjmera Transplant Centre on InstagramEach 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 HostCandice 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.
• Fifty Years of Kidney Transplantation: Nephrologist Dr. Cole's Perspective on Revolutions in Renal Care | Patient Stories, Organ Donation and Medical Experts 04.12.2025 36min

  In this episode of the Living Transplant podcast, Dr. Edward Cole shares his extensive experience in nephrology and kidney transplantation. With a career spanning over fifty years at the University Health Network, Dr. Cole has witnessed the trajectory of transplant medicine from its infancy to its advacned state today. He reflects on the future of nephrology, including potential innovations in transplantation and the significance of mentorship in shaping the next generation of healthcare professionals.In This Episode, We Cover:The Early Days: What transplant medicine looked like in 1975 versus today.The Game Changers: How drugs like Cyclosporine revolutionized survival rates.The Science of Matching: Understanding HLA antigens and the breakthrough of the Paired Donation Program.Future Horizons: Xenotransplantation and the dream of eliminating anti-rejection medication.Hard Truths: Dr. Cole’s candid advice on patient advocacy and the realities of a medical career.Connect with the Podcast or Learn more about Organ DonationClick here for more information about living organ donation.Click here for more information about living kidney transplantation. Click here for more information about Polycystic Kidney Disease. Ajmera Transplant Centre on InstagramEach 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 HostCandice 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.
• Yes And… The Joy of Imperfection | Patient Stories, Organ Donation and Medical Experts 20.11.2025 40min

  In this conversation, Yitzi Gal discusses the significance of practicing failure through improvisation and mistakes in a safe environment, emphasizing the need to differentiate between minor errors and life-threatening situations. He highlights the importance of emotional resilience and the ability to assess risks in everyday life.Key TakeawaysWe need to practice failure in a safe space.Mistakes should not be equated with life-threatening situations.Emotional training is essential for risk assessment.Not every failure leads to significant consequences.Understanding the context of mistakes is crucial for growth.Teaching students about failure prepares them for real life.Practicing in a controlled environment builds confidence.Life lessons often come from making mistakes.Differentiating between minor and major risks is vital.Emotional health is impacted by our perception of failure.Links and ResourcesImprov for Anxiety One Man’s Solution for Crushing Anxiety: ImprovPlay with Fire ImprovBrene Brown TED Talk: The Power of VulnerabilityInternal Family Systems (IFS) – Richard SchwartzThe Power of Addiction and The Addiction of Power: Gabor Maté at TEDxRio+20Connect with the Podcast or Learn more about Organ DonationLearn more about Living Organ DonationLearn more about Kidney TransplantationCentre for Living Organ Donation on InstagramAjmera Transplant Centre on InstagramEach 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 HostCandice 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.
• The Hidden Organ: The Ecosystem of the Gut & Fecal Transplants | Patient Stories, Organ Donation and Medical Experts 06.11.2025 38min

  In this episode of Living Transplant, we sit down with Dr. Susy Hota, an infectious diseases physician and medical director of Infection Prevention and Control at UHN. Dr. Hota takes us inside the world of C. difficile infections and the remarkable, life-changing treatment known as fecal microbiota transplantation (FMT).From her early fascination with microbiology to leading pandemic preparedness at one of Canada’s largest hospitals, Dr. Hota shares her journey, insights from the frontlines of COVID-19, and how collaboration and relationships underpin every breakthrough in healthcare.We then explore the gut microbiome — the “hidden organ” inside us — and how FMT offers new hope for patients living with recurrent C. diff. Dr. Hota also demystifies the donor process, potential risks, and the exciting future of microbiome research that could transform how we treat everything from gut disorders to mental health.Key TakeawaysHope and healing: Even for those with chronic or recurrent infections, there are innovative treatments that can restore quality of life.Relationships matter: Whether in outbreak response or research, collaboration is key to success in healthcare.Your gut is an ecosystem: FMT is changing how we think about disease — focusing on restoring balance, not just killing bacteria.The future is bright: As microbiome science advances, new possibilities are emerging for treating conditions far beyond infection.About our GuestDr. Susy Hota is the Division Head of Infectious Diseases at UHN and Sinai Health and the Medical Director of Infection Prevention and Control at UHN. She has been a leader in pandemic preparedness, infection control, and innovative treatments such as fecal microbiota transplantation. Her work bridges clinical care, research, and systems-level leadership to improve safety and health outcomes for patients across Canada.Connect with the Podcast or Learn more about Organ DonationLearn more about Living Organ DonationLearn more about Kidney TransplantationLearn more about Dr. Hota’s research and fecal transplantationCentre for Living Organ Donation on InstagramAjmera Transplant Centre on InstagramEach 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 HostCandice 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.
• A Social Worker’s Perspective: Understanding Addiction, Recovery, Transplant Care | Patient Stories, Organ Donation and Medical Experts 27.10.2025 30min

  In this powerful episode of Living Transplant, host Candice Coghlan sits down with Sasha, a social worker at Toronto General Hospital, to discuss the vital intersection of mental health, addiction recovery, and organ transplantation. Sasha shares her journey into social work, her experience supporting patients in the Alcohol Liver Disease Program, and how stigma can affect those living with alcohol-related liver disease.The conversation dives deep into the realities of recovery, relapse prevention, financial barriers, and the emotional toll of transplant life — for both patients and families. Sasha emphasizes compassion, honesty, and the importance of recognizing addiction as a health condition, not a moral failing. Together, Candice and Sasha explore the meaning of resilience, the need for peer and mental health support, and the small acts of kindness that make a lasting impact in healthcare.Key TakeawaysAddiction is a health condition and should be treated with empathy and understanding.Mental health support is just as critical as physical care in the transplant process.Family and caregivers play an essential role in a patient’s recovery journey.Financial challenges and access to mental health care remain major barriers for many patients.Peer support networks are transformative but still lacking for liver transplant patients.Honesty and emotional validation are key tools for social workers supporting transplant patients.It’s okay to not feel okay — emotional lows are part of the transplant journey.Resources & LinksLearn more about Living Organ DonationLearn more about Living Liver DonationLearn more about Mental Health supports availableCentre for Living Organ Donation on InstagramAjmera Transplant Centre on InstagramAbout the PodcastEach episode of Living Transplant shares real stories from transplant recipients, living donors, and healthcare experts. Whether you’re a patient, caregiver, or simply curious about organ donation, you’ll hear honest conversations about resilience, hope, and the life-changing power of organ transplantation.About the HostCandice Coghlan is the Education & Outreach Coordinator at the Centre for Living Organ Donation at UHN’s Ajmera Transplant Centre, a kidney transplant recipient, and a board member for the National Kidney Foundation.ContactHave 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.
• Mary’s Journey: Healing Beyond Transplant | Patient Stories, Organ Donation and Medical Experts 09.10.2025 35min

  In this deeply moving episode of The Living Transplant Podcast, host Candice Coghlan sits down with Mary, a liver transplant recipient whose story embodies courage, vulnerability, and self-advocacy.Mary opens up about her struggles with addiction, mental health, and identity, sharing how her liver transplant became a turning point toward healing — both physically and emotionally. She discusses the often-overlooked connection between mental and physical health, the stigma surrounding addiction, and the life-changing power of receiving an accurate diagnosis after years of being misunderstood.This honest and heartfelt conversation reminds us that healing doesn’t end with surgery — it continues with self-discovery, support, and breaking the silence around mental health.Key TakeawaysMental and physical health are deeply interconnected — both deserve equal attention.Addiction and mental health struggles are health issues, not moral failings.Advocacy starts small: asking for help is an act of bravery, advocacy is crucial in navigating the healthcare systemReceiving a transplant can awaken gratitude, but also complex emotions that deserve space and care.A proper diagnosis can completely change a person’s quality of life.Breaking the stigma around mental health begins with open, honest conversations.Community and compassion are powerful forces in recovery.Mental health challenges often go unseen and misunderstood.Organ donation is a life-changing gift that impacts families.Everyone struggles with something; it's important to talk about it.Links and ResourcesMore information about living organ donationMore information about living liver transplantationCentre for Living Organ Donation on InstagramAjmera Transplant Centre on InstagramCanadian Mental Health AssociationAbout Our GuestMary R. — Liver transplant recipient and mental health advocate.Her story highlights resilience, hope, and the importance of treating the whole person, not just the body.Connect with the Podcast or Learn more about Organ DonationClick here for more information about living organ donation.Click here for more information about living kidney transplantation. Click here for more information about Polycystic Kidney Disease. Ajmera Transplant Centre on InstagramEach 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 HostCandice 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.
• Twice the Gift: Megan’s Double Anonymous Living Donor Story | Patient Stories | Organ Donation | Medical Experts 25.09.2025 33min

  In this inspiring episode, host Candice Coghlan speaks with Megan Owen-Evans, a rare double anonymous living organ donor. Megan has given both a kidney and part of her liver—gifts offered not to family or friends, but to complete strangers in need.Together, they explore what motivates someone to step forward for such extraordinary acts of altruism, the recovery journey, and the myths and misconceptions around anonymous donation. Megan also shares how her experiences as a donor inspired her advocacy work, including pushing for paid leave for living donors through the Living Donor Circle of Excellence.This conversation highlights not only the bravery of living donors but also the ripple effects their generosity creates in workplaces, families, and communities.Episode HighlightsMegan’s journey from childhood experience to becoming a living donorDiscovering the option of anonymous kidney and liver donationWhat recovery was really like after both surgeriesMisconceptions about living and anonymous donation—and how to address themWriting letters to her recipients and the emotional connections that followedHow Megan helped shape workplace policy to remove financial barriers for donorsWhy living donors see their gift as life-changing not just for recipients, but for themselvesTakeawaysLiving donors undergo thorough medical and psychological screening to ensure safety.Recovery from kidney and liver donation is often faster and easier than many assume.Community support and employer recognition play a vital role in making donation possible.Altruism can be a powerful force that reshapes not only individual lives but also public policy.Every act of donation—whether blood, organs, or advocacy—creates ripples of hope.Links and ResourcesClick here for more information about the Living Donor Circle of ExcellenceClick here to watch videos of living organ donors and recipients of living donationConnect with the Podcast or Learn more about Organ DonationClick here for more information about living organ donation.Click here for more information about living kidney transplantation. Click here for more information about living liver transplantationClick here to watch videos of living organ donors and recipients of living donationCentre for Living Organ Donation on InstagramAjmera Transplant Centre on InstagramEach 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 HostCandice 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.
• Psychopathy, Altruism and the Gift of Life: Neuroscience with Dr. Abigail Marsh | Patient Stories | Organ Donation | Medical Experts 17.09.2025 36min

  In this episode, Dr. Marsh explains the neuroscience of altruism, from the role of the amygdala to genetic influences on empathy. Through Dr. Marsh’s donor stories and research insights we explore the spectrum of altruism and psychopathy. She reveals how the amygdala, the brain region tied to emotional responses, plays a pivotal role in altruistic behavior. Remarkably, research shows that altruistic kidney donors often have larger amygdala sizes compared to the average person.Dr. Marsh also reveals the genetic factors that shape empathy and altruistic tendencies, while challenging the misconception that altruism is irrational or abnormal. She contrasts the media’s frequent focus on negative aspects of human nature with the lived experiences of donors, who describe profound feelings of honor and fulfillment after giving the gift of life.Throughout the conversation, personal stories from living organ donors underscore the importance of community support for both donors and recipients. Dr. Marsh emphasizes the power of education and awareness to dispel myths about donation and highlights that altruism is not only a natural human trait but also one that can be nurtured and encouraged in all of us.Links and ResourcesDr. Marsh’s WebsiteDr. Marsh’s TedTalkThe Fear Factor, by Dr. MarshDr. Marsh LinkedInConnect with the Podcast or Learn more about Organ DonationClick here for more information about living organ donation.Click here for more information about living kidney transplantation. Click here for more information about Polycystic Kidney Disease. Ajmera Transplant Centre on InstagramEach 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 HostCandice 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.