German Kidney Exchange: Crossing Oceans to Give the Gift of Life | EP 28

11/01/24 • 31 min

What would compel an American living in Germany to navigate a labyrinth of legal and cultural barriers to donate a kidney to a stranger? Join us as we uncover the incredible story of Will Johnson, whose altruistic journey sheds light on the stark contrasts between organ donation practices in the US and Germany. In this episode, recorded in a charming house near Munich, we reveal Germany's current regulations surrounding kidney exchange and the low rates of living donations that Will encountered in his quest to give the gift of life.
Embark on a transatlantic journey with us as we explore the emotional and logistical hurdles Will faced, from initial inspiration to the surprising medical discoveries along the way. Hear about the practical steps of coordinating evaluations across borders, and the varied reactions from peers and workplaces in Germany. Through Will's story, we gain a deeper understanding of the personal sacrifices and triumphs that come with kidney donation, highlighting the incredible impact of what happens when we choose to love a stranger.
Will shares: “I’ve been the recipient of much kindness and generosity throughout my life and have been blessed with good health. It felt like the right time to give back. When I learned about altruistic kidney donation, I knew without a doubt this was the perfect opportunity to do something meaningful.”
Living Kidney Donation in Germany
Global Observatory on Donation
From Germany to America: A Living Kidney Donor Story | National Kidney Foundation
Facts and myths about altruistic organ donation | Nephrology Dialysis Transplantation | Oxford Academic
Market Design Blog | Al Roth
Market Design Blog (second article) | Al Roth
Berlin Kidney Exchange Article
Living Organ Donation Donor Rate Statistics
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A Senior Donor’s Unwavering Generosity | EP 27

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How old is too old to save a life? At the age of 74, Tom Duncan defied societal norms to become America's oldest non-directed living kidney donor, and his story will change the way you think about aging and altruism. Join us for an intimate conversation from his serene home in Ruidoso, New Mexico, where Tom recounts the journey that began with a friend's struggle with dialysis and led him to a life-altering decision. Discover the rigorous evaluation process, the misconceptions about age limits, and the emotional benefits of donation that go far beyond the physical act.
Tom's inspiring narrative challenges preconceived notions and societal perceptions. We also delve into the Living Kidney Donor Voucher Program, which enables donors to give the gift of life while providing future security for their loved ones. Despite his loved one receiving a kidney from another source, Tom's unwavering commitment to donation shines through. This episode is a heartfelt tribute to the power of giving at any age! Don't miss this chance to be inspired by stories of love, resilience, and selfless generosity. This episode is dedicated to Ernie and David.
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Healing, Sobriety, and Connection with Triple Donor Anthony Cernera | EP 29

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In this episode, Anthony Cernera, a three-time living organ donor, opens up about his transformative journey of giving and personal healing. His story began with a simple Facebook post that sparked a deep desire to help others, leading him to donate a portion of his liver, kidney, and stem cells. These selfless acts not only changed the lives of his recipients but also had a profound impact on Anthony's own mental health, helping him navigate struggles with depression and addiction.

Anthony shares his powerful connections with his recipients, including Lance, his kidney recipient, and a leukemia patient in California, and how these bonds have supported his commitment to sobriety. He emphasizes the role of support systems and the importance of being transparent during the donor evaluation process. This episode highlights how service and connection can be healing, providing a sense of purpose and belonging, which Anthony has found through both organ donation and his involvement in recovery work.

Listen in for an uplifting reminder of how kindness and selflessness can create positive change, not only in the lives of recipients but also for the donors themselves. This episode is a great source of hope and inspiration for kidney donors who may have to jump through some extra hoops due to their mental health history.
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Three Time Living Donor Hopes to Inspire Others to Donate
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Donor Diaries - German Kidney Exchange: Crossing Oceans to Give the Gift of Life | EP 28

Transcript

Speaker 100:00:00.781

Welcome to Donor Diaries , a podcast that explores how people are changing lives through the powerful act of living donation . Tune in to discover how kindness , love and simple acts of giving are transforming lives every day .

Speaker 100:00:24.748

Welcome back .

Speaker 100:00:43.380

This is your host , lori Lee . Today's episode featu