• Gift of Life - The Organ Transplant Podcast - Episode 13
    Jul 23 2024
    Welcome to Episode 13 of Gift of Life - The Organ Transplant Podcast with your host BJ Odom, a heart and kidney recipient! Today, we're taking a heartfelt journey through some of BJ's favorite moments from the first 12 episodes. Join us as we revisit the touching story of Christine, the donor mother of Chris, and the incredible moment she heard her son's heart beating in the recipient for the first time. We'll also hear from Mike Terry, a heart recipient, who BJ featured on his radio show BJ and Bill and helped raise awareness for the importance of organ donation right after BJ he learned he would need a life saving heart transplant. Melissa Tuff, a kidney recipient and advocate, shares her powerful story of lobbying in Washington on behalf of those with kidney disease and her involvement in passing laws to protect individuals in need of transplants. Get ready to bust myths about organ donation with Ashley Moore of LifeLink Florida. And learn about Lisa Donahey's decision to become a living kidney donor, and prepare for National Multiethnic Donor Awareness Month in August. This month is all about creating a positive culture around organ, eye, and tissue donation across diverse communities. Stay connected with us on Facebook at Gift of Life - The Organ Transplant Podcast and share your own organ transplant stories by emailing us at GiftofLifePodcast@gmail.com. Don't forget to subscribe and leave a 5-star review wherever you listen to your favorite podcasts. Thank you for tuning in and spreading the gift of life!
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    32 mins
  • Gift of Life - The Organ Transplant Podcast - Episode 12
    Jul 16 2024

    Don't this heartwarming episode 12 of Gift of Life - The Organ Transplant Podcast hosted by BJ Odom. Join BJ as he turns the spotlight on his devoted caregiver and loving wife, Susan. Journey with them through the emotional highs and lows, as they reflect on Susan's pivotal role in BJ's medical journey, from his near-loss during bypass surgery to her own battle with breast cancer. This candid conversation sheds light on the challenges and triumphs faced by caregivers, offering a glimpse into the profound impact of love and support in times of adversity. Hear firsthand how Susan navigated the complexities of caregiving and coped with her own health struggles, providing a touching and insightful narrative. Stay tuned for a raw and emotional interview that goes beyond the surface, capturing the essence of compassion, resilience, and unwavering dedication. Subscribe now and leave us a stellar 5-star review on your preferred podcast platform to support our mission. Connect with us on Facebook at Gift of Life - The Organ Transplant Podcast and share your own transplant stories by emailing us at GiftofLifePodcast@gmail.com. Tune in to Gift of Life and join us in celebrating the power of love, hope, and the gift of life. Your support means the world to us!

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    31 mins
  • Gift of Life - The Organ Transplant Podcast - Episode 11
    Jul 9 2024

    Join us on a heartwarming journey in this week's episode of Gift of Life - the Organ Transplant Podcast, as we delve into the incredible story of Lisa Donahey's selfless act that changed lives forever.

    It all started with a single Facebook post that caught Lisa's eye, leading her to commit to donating a kidney to a family acquaintance in need. Feeling a deep sense of guidance from God, Lisa embarked on a remarkable journey of compassion and sacrifice.

    Through the podcast, we uncover the challenges and triumphs that Lisa faced along the way. From the initial decision to contact Dr. Gene Serra, the recipient, to navigating the complex world of organ transplants, every step was met with unwavering support from her devoted family.

    Despite some friends struggling to comprehend her choice, Lisa remained steadfast in her decision. The process was riddled with obstacles, from finding a hospital willing to perform the surgery to addressing her own medical concerns. Yet through it all, Lisa's determination and belief in her calling never wavered.

    As we reflect on this inspiring tale, we invite our listeners to share their own stories with us at bjodom55@gmail.com and connect with us on Facebook at Gift of Life - The Organ Transplant Podcast. And if you've been touched by our journey, we'd be grateful for a 5-star review on your preferred podcast platform.

    Join us and witness the extraordinary power of generosity and human connection in this remarkable episode of Gift of Life - the Organ Transplant Podcast

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    36 mins
  • Gift of Life - The Organ Transplant Podcast - Episode 10
    Jul 2 2024
    Welcome to *Gift of Life - The Organ Transplant Podcast* episode 10 with your host, BJ Odom a double organ transplant recipient. This episode features Adrian Marshall, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with significant experience in healthcare and involvement with the HCA Florida Largo Hospital Transplant Center. Adrian Marshall shares insights from her 12 years of experience at the forefront of organ transplantation, focusing on the importance of mental health, caregiving, the unique nature of transplant surgery, fostering connections between donor families and recipients, and demystifying television portrayals versus real-life scenarios in hospital transplants. Listen in as we talk about: 1. **Mental Health in Transplantation:** The critical role mental health plays in the transplant process. 2. **Caregivers:** Understanding the vital support caregivers provide to transplant patients. 3. **Transplant Surgery:** Exploring how organ transplant surgeries differ from other major procedures. 4. **Donor-Recipient Connections:** The emotional bridge between donor families and transplant recipients. 5. **Reality vs. TV Dramas:** Contrasting the reality of hospital transplants with popular media depictions. Highlighting the groundbreaking work of the HCA Florida Largo Hospital Transplant Center, known for its pioneering kidney and liver transplant programs, as well as LVAD treatments for heart failure patients, culminating in their first heart transplant in 2019. Stay tuned for a deep dive into Adrian Marshall's extensive experiences and invaluable insights at the forefront of the organ transplant field. Join the conversation on Facebook at "Gift of Life - The Organ Transplant Podcast." Don't miss this engaging and informative episode covering the heart of transplant care and the impactful work of healthcare professionals in the field. Remember to subscribe and leave a review on your favorite podcast platform and follow us on Facebook at Gift of Life - The Organ Transplant Podcast. Plus if you have a transplant story to share email us at bjodom55@gmail.com
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    46 mins
  • Gift of Life - The Organ Transplant Podcast - Episode 09
    Jun 25 2024

    In this heartwarming episode of "Gift to Life: The Organ Transplant Podcast," we sit down with Adrian, a dedicated member of Phi Beta Sigma fraternity and a pillar in his community. Adrian shares his inspiring story of resilience and hope as he recounts his unexpected journey to a life-saving lung transplant.

    What began as what Adrian thought was a minor eye issue turned out to be a serious lung problem that escalated quickly. His struggle to breathe at work became unbearable, leading to scary moments of passing out which ultimately forced him to leave his job.

    Navigating the healthcare system and facing the financial burden of expensive medications while being unable to work, Adrian's journey was filled with challenges. His determination to seek out the best care took him to Denver where he found a lung specialist who would eventually change his life.

    Join us as we dive deep into Adrian's impactful story of strength, community support, and the power of organ donation. We hope you'll be inspired by his journey of gratitude and renewed purpose as he shares his incredible gift of life.

    If you have an organ transplant journey you would like to share email us at bjodom55@gmail.com and follow us on Facebook Gift of Life - The Organ Transplant Podcast.

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    26 mins
  • Gift of Life - The Organ Transplant Podcast - Episode 08
    Jun 18 2024

    In today's emotionally uplifting episode, we are privileged to share the remarkable story of Chris, a hero who selflessly saved four lives through organ donation. Join us as we delve into the heartfelt narrative of Chris's family bidding him farewell, and how his legacy continues to inspire and touch the lives of many.

    Chris's mother, Christine, eloquently recounts the profound experience of donating her son's organs, bringing light and hope to others in need. Her words resonate with love and pride for her son, underscoring the transformative power of generosity.

    One poignant moment in the story unfolds as Chris's mother and sister hear the heartbeat of their beloved son in the recipient of his heart. Through this profound meeting, the presence of Chris is keenly felt, weaving together the threads of connection and love.

    The narrative also sheds light on the exceptional support and care provided by the hospital, highlighting the importance of empathy and professionalism in times of great loss and hope.

    Christine shares her personal journey of coping with loss by sharing Chris's story, embracing his energy and spirit in a transcendent way. Her bravery and resilience in embracing the legacy of her son serve as a beacon of inspiration.

    Don't miss out on this extraordinary tale of love, loss, and the everlasting impact of organ donation. Tune in to witness a story that will move your heart and ignite your soul. Together, let's celebrate the beauty of life and the enduring legacy of compassion.

    Stay tuned and join us on this transformative journey of remembrance and renewal. Let's honor Chris's legacy together.

    We want to hear your story Email us bjodom55@gmail.com

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    39 mins
  • Gift Of Life - The Organ Transplant Podcast - Episode 07
    Jun 11 2024

    Exciting Episode Alert! Tune in to Episode 7 of "Gift of Life: The Organ Transplant Podcast" where we have an incredible story to share with you!

    In this episode, we are thrilled to have Jennienne sharing her journey with us. At just 17 years old, she went on dialysis, and after 12 long years, her life changed when her brother became her first lifesaving donor. Life took a positive turn, but after 11 years, her kidneys started failing once again.

    But wait, the story doesn't stop there! Jennienne's loving husband stepped in and selflessly became her second donor. Their love and support have been unwavering, and they continue their journey together.

    Now, brace yourselves for the next twist in this remarkable tale: a third transplant was needed, making things even more complex. However, the miracle of a donor chain, also known as a daisy chain, came into play.

    The gift of life continued to shine on Jennienne as her new kidney, from donor number three, is thriving and working effectively till this very day.

    Don't miss out on this inspiring episode filled with resilience, love, and the power of organ donation. Tune in now to learn about Jennienne's incredible journey and be amazed by the strength of the human spirit! If you would like to share your own story or get in touch, please feel free to contact us at bjodom55@gmail.com. Don't forget to follow us on Facebook at Gift of Life - The Organ Transplant Podcast. And as always, we appreciate your support - so please remember to subscribe and leave a review on your preferred podcast platform. Thank you for joining us on this journey of hope and healing.

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    38 mins
  • Gift of Life - The Organ Transplant Podcast - Episode 06
    Jun 4 2024
    Join us this week for an incredibly moving and inspiring story that will tug at your heartstrings and leave you filled with hope. Meet Paige, a resilient individual whose life was forever altered at the tender age of 3 when a faulty vaccine plunged her into a harrowing coma. Emerging from this traumatic ordeal, she was thrust into a lifelong battle with diabetes. Paige's journey took a miraculous turn when she underwent a life-changing pancreas transplant. This pivotal moment marked the beginning of a new chapter filled with boundless possibilities and newfound freedoms. No longer reliant on insulin injections and dietary restrictions, Paige's post-transplant life has been a testament to the extraordinary gift of organ donation. Through the highs and lows, Paige's unwavering spirit and tenacity have propelled her forward, shaping her into the resilient individual she is today. Join us as she invites listeners to witness the profound impact of the Gift of Life on her journey, exclusively on the Organ Transplant Podcast, part of the esteemed Podcast Playground network. Tune in and be captivated by Paige's remarkable tale of resilience, courage, and the transformative power of organ transplantation. This is an episode you won't want to miss.
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    42 mins