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. <h3>In This Episode:</h3><ul><li>What HLA actually means and why it matters</li><li>The truth about “perfect matches” in organ transplant</li><li>How antibodies affect transplant compatibility</li><li>Why highly sensitized patients face additional challenges</li><li>The future of molecular matching and predictive transplant science</li><li>How UHN teams collaborate across transplant programs</li><li>Innovations in organ preservation and perfusion technology</li><li>The behind-the-scenes role of Medical Laboratory Technologists (MLTs)</li></ul> <h3>Links&nbsp;</h3>How UHN’s Transplant Immunology Lab matches patients with donor organs, stem cells: <a href="https://www.uhn.ca/corporate/News/Pages/uhn-transplant-immunology-lab-hla-matching.aspx" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(17, 85, 204);">https://www.uhn.ca/corporate/News/Pages/uhn-transplant-immunology-lab-hla-matching.aspx</a> Learn more about living organ donation: <a href="http://www.livingorgandonation.ca" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(17, 85, 204);">www.livingorgandonation.ca</a>&nbsp;Living Organ Donation at UHN: <a href="https://www.uhn.ca/Transplant/Kidney_Transplant_Program" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(17, 85, 204);">UHN Ajmera Transplant Centre</a>Information Sessions for potential donors: <a href="http://givelifeuhn.eventbrite.ca" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(17, 85, 204);">givelifeuhn.eventbrite.ca</a>&nbsp; Becoming a living donor: <a href="https://www.uhn.ca/Transplant/Pages/become_living_donor.aspx" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(17, 85, 204);">https://www.uhn.ca/Transplant/Pages/become_living_donor.aspx</a>CBS Highly Sensitized Patient Program: <a href="https://professionaleducation.blood.ca/en/organs-and-tissues/programs/highly-sensitized-patient-hsp-program" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(17, 85, 204);">https://professionaleducation.blood.ca/en/organs-and-tissues/programs/highly-sensitized-patient-hsp-program</a>&nbsp; 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 &amp; 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<a href="https://www.uhn.ca/Transplant/Living_Donor_Program/Centre_for_Living_Organ_Donation" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(0, 0, 0);"> </a><a href="https://www.uhn.ca/Transplant/Living_Donor_Program/Centre_for_Living_Organ_Donation" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(17, 85, 204);">Centre for Living Organ Donation</a> 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.

<description>&lt;p&gt;&lt;span style="background-color: transparent;"&gt;What actually makes someone a “match” for organ transplant? And how close are we to a future where transplant compatibility becomes even more personalized?&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;br&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;span style="background-color: transparent;"&gt;In this episode of &lt;/span&gt;&lt;em style="background-color: transparent;"&gt;Living Transplant Podcast&lt;/em&gt;&lt;span style="background-color: transparent;"&gt;, 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.&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;br&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;span style="background-color: transparent;"&gt;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.&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;br&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;span style="background-color: transparent;"&gt;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.&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;br&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;span style="background-color: transparent;"&gt;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.&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;br&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;h3&gt;&lt;strong style="background-color: transparent;"&gt;In This Episode:&lt;/strong&gt;&lt;/h3&gt;&lt;ul&gt;&lt;li&gt;&lt;span style="background-color: transparent;"&gt;What HLA actually means and why it matters&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/li&gt;&lt;li&gt;&lt;span style="background-color: transparent;"&gt;The truth about “perfect matches” in organ transplant&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/li&gt;&lt;li&gt;&lt;span style="background-color: transparent;"&gt;How antibodies affect transplant compatibility&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/li&gt;&lt;li&gt;&lt;span style="background-color: transparent;"&gt;Why highly sensitized patients face additional challenges&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/li&gt;&lt;li&gt;&lt;span style="background-color: transparent;"&gt;The future of molecular matching and predictive transplant science&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/li&gt;&lt;li&gt;&lt;span style="background-color: transparent;"&gt;How UHN teams collaborate across transplant programs&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/li&gt;&lt;li&gt;&lt;span style="background-color: transparent;"&gt;Innovations in organ preservation and perfusion technology&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/li&gt;&lt;li&gt;&lt;span style="background-color: transparent;"&gt;The behind-the-scenes role of Medical Laboratory Technologists (MLTs)&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/li&gt;&lt;/ul&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;br&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;h3&gt;&lt;strong style="background-color: transparent;"&gt;Links&amp;nbsp;&lt;/strong&gt;&lt;/h3&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;span style="background-color: transparent;"&gt;How UHN’s Transplant Immunology Lab matches patients with donor organs, stem cells: &lt;/span&gt;&lt;a href="https://www.uhn.ca/corporate/News/Pages/uhn-transplant-immunology-lab-hla-matching.aspx" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(17, 85, 204);"&gt;https://www.uhn.ca/corporate/News/Pages/uhn-transplant-immunology-lab-hla-matching.aspx&lt;/a&gt;&lt;span style="background-color: transparent;"&gt; &lt;/span&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;Learn more about living organ donation: &lt;a href="http://www.livingorgandonation.ca" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(17, 85, 204);"&gt;www.livingorgandonation.ca&lt;/a&gt;&lt;span style="background-color: transparent;"&gt;&amp;nbsp;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;span style="background-color: transparent;"&gt;Living Organ Donation at UHN: &lt;/span&gt;&lt;a href="https://www.uhn.ca/Transplant/Kidney_Transplant_Program" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(17, 85, 204);"&gt;UHN Ajmera Transplant Centre&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;span style="background-color: transparent;"&gt;Information Sessions for potential donors: &lt;/span&gt;&lt;a href="http://givelifeuhn.eventbrite.ca" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(17, 85, 204);"&gt;givelifeuhn.eventbrite.ca&lt;/a&gt;&lt;span style="background-color: transparent;"&gt;&amp;nbsp; &lt;/span&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;Becoming a living donor:&lt;strong style="background-color: transparent;"&gt; &lt;/strong&gt;&lt;a href="https://www.uhn.ca/Transplant/Pages/become_living_donor.aspx" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(17, 85, 204);"&gt;https://www.uhn.ca/Transplant/Pages/become_living_donor.aspx&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;span style="background-color: transparent;"&gt;CBS Highly Sensitized Patient Program: &lt;/span&gt;&lt;a href="https://professionaleducation.blood.ca/en/organs-and-tissues/programs/highly-sensitized-patient-hsp-program" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(17, 85, 204);"&gt;https://professionaleducation.blood.ca/en/organs-and-tissues/programs/highly-sensitized-patient-hsp-program&lt;/a&gt;&lt;span style="background-color: transparent;"&gt;&amp;nbsp;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;br&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;span style="background-color: transparent;"&gt;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.&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;br&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;strong style="background-color: transparent;"&gt;About our Host&lt;/strong&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;span style="background-color: transparent;"&gt;Candice Coghlan is the Education &amp;amp; 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. &lt;/span&gt;&lt;span style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(33, 37, 41);"&gt;After she was diagnosed with kidney failure in her early 20s, she was on dialysis until receiving a transplant from her mother.&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;br&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;span style="background-color: transparent;"&gt;Have questions? Comments? Ideas for an episode? Please reach out to the&lt;/span&gt;&lt;a href="https://www.uhn.ca/Transplant/Living_Donor_Program/Centre_for_Living_Organ_Donation" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(0, 0, 0);"&gt; &lt;/a&gt;&lt;a href="https://www.uhn.ca/Transplant/Living_Donor_Program/Centre_for_Living_Organ_Donation" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(17, 85, 204);"&gt;Centre for Living Organ Donation&lt;/a&gt;&lt;span style="background-color: transparent;"&gt; at livingorgandonation@uhn.ca. Thanks for spending your time with us.&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;br&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;span style="background-color: transparent;"&gt;The views and opinions expressed in this episode do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of Toronto General or University Health Network.&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;br&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;br&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;br&gt;&lt;/p&gt;</description>

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 U...

Beyond the Perfect Match: How HLA Science Is Changing Transplant

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:<ul><li>Maigen’s spontaneous decision to become a living liver donor during the early days of COVID-19</li><li>How a simple “why not?” mindset led to a life-changing journey</li><li>The realities of donor testing, including unexpected challenges like rapid weight loss</li><li>Navigating transplant logistics and emotional stress during a global pandemic</li><li>The importance of communication, advocacy, and support systems throughout the process</li><li>What recovery really looks like—and how quickly life can begin to feel “normal” again</li><li>The evolving meaning of her transplant scar—from insecurity to a badge of honour</li><li>The impact of donation on family relationships, identity, and future outlook</li><li>Advice for potential donors and caregivers navigating uncertainty</li></ul><h3> </h3>Links&nbsp;Learn more about living organ donation: <a href="http://www.livingorgandonation.ca" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(17, 85, 204);">www.livingorgandonation.ca</a>&nbsp;Living Liver Donation at UHN: <a href="https://www.uhn.ca/Transplant/Kidney_Transplant_Program" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(17, 85, 204);">UHN Ajmera Transplant Centre</a>Information Sessions for potential donors: <a href="http://givelifeuhn.eventbrite.ca" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(17, 85, 204);">givelifeuhn.eventbrite.ca</a>&nbsp; Becoming a living donor: <a href="https://www.uhn.ca/Transplant/Pages/become_living_donor.aspx" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(17, 85, 204);">https://www.uhn.ca/Transplant/Pages/become_living_donor.aspx</a> 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 &amp; 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<a href="https://www.uhn.ca/Transplant/Living_Donor_Program/Centre_for_Living_Organ_Donation" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(0, 0, 0);"> </a><a href="https://www.uhn.ca/Transplant/Living_Donor_Program/Centre_for_Living_Organ_Donation" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(17, 85, 204);">Centre for Living Organ Donation</a> 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.

<description>&lt;p&gt;&lt;span style="background-color: transparent;"&gt;Discover &lt;/span&gt;&lt;span style="color: rgb(34, 34, 34);"&gt;Maigen&lt;/span&gt;&lt;span style="background-color: transparent;"&gt;’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. &lt;/span&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;br&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;span style="background-color: transparent;"&gt;In this episode of Living Transplant, &lt;/span&gt;&lt;span style="color: rgb(34, 34, 34);"&gt;Maigen&lt;/span&gt;&lt;span style="background-color: transparent;"&gt; 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. &lt;/span&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;br&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;span style="background-color: transparent;"&gt;From navigating the transplant process during a global pandemic to redefining her relationship with her body and her future, &lt;/span&gt;&lt;span style="color: rgb(34, 34, 34);"&gt;Maigen&lt;/span&gt;&lt;span style="background-color: transparent;"&gt; offers an honest and inspiring look at what it truly means to be a living donor.&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;br&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;span style="background-color: transparent;"&gt;In this episode, we explore:&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;ul&gt;&lt;li&gt;&lt;span style="color: rgb(34, 34, 34);"&gt;Maigen&lt;/span&gt;&lt;span style="background-color: transparent;"&gt;’s spontaneous decision to become a living liver donor during the early days of COVID-19&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/li&gt;&lt;li&gt;&lt;span style="background-color: transparent;"&gt;How a simple “why not?” mindset led to a life-changing journey&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/li&gt;&lt;li&gt;&lt;span style="background-color: transparent;"&gt;The realities of donor testing, including unexpected challenges like rapid weight loss&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/li&gt;&lt;li&gt;&lt;span style="background-color: transparent;"&gt;Navigating transplant logistics and emotional stress during a global pandemic&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/li&gt;&lt;li&gt;&lt;span style="background-color: transparent;"&gt;The importance of communication, advocacy, and support systems throughout the process&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/li&gt;&lt;li&gt;&lt;span style="background-color: transparent;"&gt;What recovery really looks like—and how quickly life can begin to feel “normal” again&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/li&gt;&lt;li&gt;&lt;span style="background-color: transparent;"&gt;The evolving meaning of her transplant scar—from insecurity to a badge of honour&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/li&gt;&lt;li&gt;&lt;span style="background-color: transparent;"&gt;The impact of donation on family relationships, identity, and future outlook&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/li&gt;&lt;li&gt;&lt;span style="background-color: transparent;"&gt;Advice for potential donors and caregivers navigating uncertainty&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/li&gt;&lt;/ul&gt;&lt;h3&gt;&lt;br&gt;&lt;/h3&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;strong&gt;Links&amp;nbsp;&lt;/strong&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;span style="background-color: transparent;"&gt;Learn more about living organ donation: &lt;/span&gt;&lt;a href="http://www.livingorgandonation.ca" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(17, 85, 204);"&gt;www.livingorgandonation.ca&lt;/a&gt;&lt;span style="background-color: transparent;"&gt;&amp;nbsp;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;span style="background-color: transparent;"&gt;Living Liver Donation at UHN: &lt;/span&gt;&lt;a href="https://www.uhn.ca/Transplant/Kidney_Transplant_Program" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(17, 85, 204);"&gt;UHN Ajmera Transplant Centre&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;span style="background-color: transparent;"&gt;Information Sessions for potential donors: &lt;/span&gt;&lt;a href="http://givelifeuhn.eventbrite.ca" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(17, 85, 204);"&gt;givelifeuhn.eventbrite.ca&lt;/a&gt;&lt;span style="background-color: transparent;"&gt;&amp;nbsp; &lt;/span&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;Becoming a living donor:&lt;strong style="background-color: transparent;"&gt; &lt;/strong&gt;&lt;a href="https://www.uhn.ca/Transplant/Pages/become_living_donor.aspx" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(17, 85, 204);"&gt;https://www.uhn.ca/Transplant/Pages/become_living_donor.aspx&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;br&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;span style="background-color: transparent;"&gt;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.&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;br&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;strong style="background-color: transparent;"&gt;About our Host&lt;/strong&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;span style="background-color: transparent;"&gt;Candice Coghlan is the Education &amp;amp; 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. &lt;/span&gt;&lt;span style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(33, 37, 41);"&gt;After she was diagnosed with kidney failure in her early 20s, she was on dialysis until receiving a transplant from her mother.&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;br&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;span style="background-color: transparent;"&gt;Have questions? Comments? Ideas for an episode? Please reach out to the&lt;/span&gt;&lt;a href="https://www.uhn.ca/Transplant/Living_Donor_Program/Centre_for_Living_Organ_Donation" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(0, 0, 0);"&gt; &lt;/a&gt;&lt;a href="https://www.uhn.ca/Transplant/Living_Donor_Program/Centre_for_Living_Organ_Donation" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(17, 85, 204);"&gt;Centre for Living Organ Donation&lt;/a&gt;&lt;span style="background-color: transparent;"&gt; at livingorgandonation@uhn.ca. Thanks for spending your time with us.&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;br&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;span style="background-color: transparent;"&gt;The views and opinions expressed in this episode do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of Toronto General or University Health Network.&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;br&gt;&lt;/p&gt;</description>

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 comme...

Eight Weeks for a Lifetime: Maigen’s Journey as a Living Liver Donor

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. <h3>Key Topics</h3><ul><li>Living donor kidney transplant and sibling donation</li><li>Returning to dialysis after transplant</li><li>Redefining “balance” and embracing rest</li><li>Invisible illness and “you don’t look sick”</li><li>Motherhood, career, and chronic illness</li><li>The importance of support systems and asking for help</li><li>Patient advocacy and being the expert of your own body</li><li>Navigating the healthcare system and medical mistrust</li><li>Cultural safety and equity in organ donation and transplantation</li><li>The impact of community: ACB Organ Health Committee</li></ul> <h3>Links&nbsp;</h3>Learn more about living organ donation: www.livingorgandonation.caLiving Kidney &amp; Liver Donation at UHN: <a href="https://www.uhn.ca/Transplant/Kidney_Transplant_Program" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(17, 85, 204);">UHN Ajmera Transplant Centre</a>Information Sessions for potential donors: <a href="http://givelifeuhn.eventbrite.ca" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(17, 85, 204);">givelifeuhn.eventbrite.ca</a>&nbsp; Becoming a living donor: <a href="https://www.uhn.ca/Transplant/Pages/become_living_donor.aspx" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(17, 85, 204);">https://www.uhn.ca/Transplant/Pages/become_living_donor.aspx</a>ACB Organ Health Committee &amp; Green Table Talk: <a href="https://www.youtube.com/@acborganhealth" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">https://www.youtube.com/@acborganhealth</a>&nbsp;&nbsp;Black Health Alliance:<a href="https://blackhealthalliance.ca" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(0, 0, 0);"> https://blackhealthalliance.ca</a>Kidney Foundation of Canada – Living Donation <a href="https://kidney.ca/Get-Involved/Be-a-Living-Donor" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(17, 85, 204);">https://kidney.ca/Get-Involved/Be-a-Living-Donor</a>Trillium Gift of Life Network – Organ Donation in Ontario<a href="https://www.giftoflife.on.ca" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(17, 85, 204);">https://www.giftoflife.on.ca</a> 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 &amp; 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<a href="https://www.uhn.ca/Transplant/Living_Donor_Program/Centre_for_Living_Organ_Donation" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(0, 0, 0);"> </a><a href="https://www.uhn.ca/Transplant/Living_Donor_Program/Centre_for_Living_Organ_Donation" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(17, 85, 204);">Centre for Living Organ Donation</a> 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.

<description>&lt;p&gt;&lt;span style="background-color: transparent;"&gt;In this powerful episode of &lt;/span&gt;&lt;em style="background-color: transparent;"&gt;Living Transplant&lt;/em&gt;&lt;span style="background-color: transparent;"&gt;, 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.&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;br&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;span style="background-color: transparent;"&gt;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.&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;br&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;span style="background-color: transparent;"&gt;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.&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;br&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;h3&gt;&lt;strong style="background-color: transparent;"&gt;Key Topics&lt;/strong&gt;&lt;/h3&gt;&lt;ul&gt;&lt;li&gt;&lt;span style="background-color: transparent;"&gt;Living donor kidney transplant and sibling donation&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/li&gt;&lt;li&gt;&lt;span style="background-color: transparent;"&gt;Returning to dialysis after transplant&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/li&gt;&lt;li&gt;&lt;span style="background-color: transparent;"&gt;Redefining “balance” and embracing rest&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/li&gt;&lt;li&gt;&lt;span style="background-color: transparent;"&gt;Invisible illness and “you don’t look sick”&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/li&gt;&lt;li&gt;&lt;span style="background-color: transparent;"&gt;Motherhood, career, and chronic illness&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/li&gt;&lt;li&gt;&lt;span style="background-color: transparent;"&gt;The importance of support systems and asking for help&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/li&gt;&lt;li&gt;&lt;span style="background-color: transparent;"&gt;Patient advocacy and being the expert of your own body&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/li&gt;&lt;li&gt;&lt;span style="background-color: transparent;"&gt;Navigating the healthcare system and medical mistrust&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/li&gt;&lt;li&gt;&lt;span style="background-color: transparent;"&gt;Cultural safety and equity in organ donation and transplantation&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/li&gt;&lt;li&gt;&lt;span style="background-color: transparent;"&gt;The impact of community: ACB Organ Health Committee&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/li&gt;&lt;/ul&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;br&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;h3&gt;&lt;strong style="background-color: transparent;"&gt;Links&amp;nbsp;&lt;/strong&gt;&lt;/h3&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;span style="background-color: transparent;"&gt;Learn more about living organ donation: www.livingorgandonation.ca&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;span style="background-color: transparent;"&gt;Living Kidney &amp;amp; Liver Donation at UHN: &lt;/span&gt;&lt;a href="https://www.uhn.ca/Transplant/Kidney_Transplant_Program" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(17, 85, 204);"&gt;UHN Ajmera Transplant Centre&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;span style="background-color: transparent;"&gt;Information Sessions for potential donors: &lt;/span&gt;&lt;a href="http://givelifeuhn.eventbrite.ca" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(17, 85, 204);"&gt;givelifeuhn.eventbrite.ca&lt;/a&gt;&lt;span style="background-color: transparent;"&gt;&amp;nbsp; &lt;/span&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;Becoming a living donor:&lt;strong style="background-color: transparent;"&gt; &lt;/strong&gt;&lt;a href="https://www.uhn.ca/Transplant/Pages/become_living_donor.aspx" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(17, 85, 204);"&gt;https://www.uhn.ca/Transplant/Pages/become_living_donor.aspx&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;span style="background-color: transparent;"&gt;ACB Organ Health Committee &amp;amp; Green Table Talk: &lt;/span&gt;&lt;a href="https://www.youtube.com/@acborganhealth" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(0, 0, 0);"&gt;https://www.youtube.com/@acborganhealth&lt;/a&gt;&lt;span style="background-color: transparent;"&gt;&amp;nbsp;&amp;nbsp;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;span style="background-color: transparent;"&gt;Black Health Alliance:&lt;/span&gt;&lt;a href="https://blackhealthalliance.ca" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(0, 0, 0);"&gt; https://blackhealthalliance.ca&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;span style="background-color: transparent;"&gt;Kidney Foundation of Canada – Living Donation &lt;/span&gt;&lt;a href="https://kidney.ca/Get-Involved/Be-a-Living-Donor" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(17, 85, 204);"&gt;https://kidney.ca/Get-Involved/Be-a-Living-Donor&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;span style="background-color: transparent;"&gt;Trillium Gift of Life Network – Organ Donation in Ontario&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;a href="https://www.giftoflife.on.ca" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(17, 85, 204);"&gt;https://www.giftoflife.on.ca&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;br&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;span style="background-color: transparent;"&gt;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.&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;br&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;strong style="background-color: transparent;"&gt;About our Host&lt;/strong&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;span style="background-color: transparent;"&gt;Candice Coghlan is the Education &amp;amp; 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. &lt;/span&gt;&lt;span style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(33, 37, 41);"&gt;After she was diagnosed with kidney failure in her early 20s, she was on dialysis until receiving a transplant from her mother.&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;br&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;span style="background-color: transparent;"&gt;Have questions? Comments? Ideas for an episode? Please reach out to the&lt;/span&gt;&lt;a href="https://www.uhn.ca/Transplant/Living_Donor_Program/Centre_for_Living_Organ_Donation" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(0, 0, 0);"&gt; &lt;/a&gt;&lt;a href="https://www.uhn.ca/Transplant/Living_Donor_Program/Centre_for_Living_Organ_Donation" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(17, 85, 204);"&gt;Centre for Living Organ Donation&lt;/a&gt;&lt;span style="background-color: transparent;"&gt; at livingorgandonation@uhn.ca. Thanks for spending your time with us.&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;br&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;span style="background-color: transparent;"&gt;The views and opinions expressed in this episode do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of Toronto General or University Health Network.&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;br&gt;&lt;/p&gt;</description>

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 reflec...

You Don’t Look Sick: Fadia on Invisible Illness, Advocacy, Redefining Life on Dialysis, and the Transplant Journey

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:<ul><li>Why transplant pharmacy is different</li><li>How TOP provides continuous, specialized care that goes far beyond dispensing medications.</li><li>Medication adherence made easier</li><li>The impact of blister packaging, delivery across Ontario, and proactive dose management in helping patients stay on track, catching complications early</li><li>How frequent check-ins and strong patient relationships help pharmacists identify side effects and concerns before they become serious.</li><li>Navigating medication fears</li><li>Honest conversations about side effects, what to expect, and how care teams adjust treatment to fit each patient’s needs.</li><li>What transplant patients need to know about over-the-counter medications, supplements, and everyday risks.</li><li>Breaking down financial barriers</li><li>How medication reimbursement specialists help patients access coverage, reduce out-of-pocket costs, and navigate complex insurance systems.</li><li>The future of transplant pharmacy</li><li>Innovations like blister pack automation, refill reminders, and text-based systems designed to make care even more accessible.</li></ul> Links and ResourcesLearn more about the UHN Transplant Outpatient Pharmacy (TOP): <a href="https://www.uhn.ca/Transplant/TOP" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(17, 85, 204);">https://www.uhn.ca/Transplant/TOP</a> Learn more about living organ donation: www.livingorgandonation.caLiving Kidney &amp; Liver Donation at UHN: <a href="https://www.uhn.ca/Transplant/Kidney_Transplant_Program" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(17, 85, 204);">UHN Ajmera Transplant Centre</a>Information Sessions for potential donors: <a href="http://givelifeuhn.eventbrite.ca" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(17, 85, 204);">givelifeuhn.eventbrite.ca</a>&nbsp; Becoming a living donor: <a href="https://www.uhn.ca/Transplant/Pages/become_living_donor.aspx" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(17, 85, 204);">https://www.uhn.ca/Transplant/Pages/become_living_donor.aspx</a>Kidney Foundation of Canada – Living Donation <a href="https://kidney.ca/Get-Involved/Be-a-Living-Donor" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(17, 85, 204);">https://kidney.ca/Get-Involved/Be-a-Living-Donor</a>Trillium Gift of Life Network – Organ Donation in Ontario<a href="https://www.giftoflife.on.ca" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(17, 85, 204);">https://www.giftoflife.on.ca</a> 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 &amp; 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<a href="https://www.uhn.ca/Transplant/Living_Donor_Program/Centre_for_Living_Organ_Donation" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(0, 0, 0);"> </a><a href="https://www.uhn.ca/Transplant/Living_Donor_Program/Centre_for_Living_Organ_Donation" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(17, 85, 204);">Centre for Living Organ Donation</a> 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.

<description>&lt;p&gt;&lt;span style="background-color: transparent;"&gt;What happens after transplant—when the surgery is over and real life begins?&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;br&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;span style="background-color: transparent;"&gt;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.&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;br&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;span style="background-color: transparent;"&gt;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.&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;br&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;span style="background-color: transparent;"&gt;Together, we unpack how this specialized care improves outcomes, reduces complications, and helps patients feel less alone in what can be an overwhelming experience.&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;br&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;span style="background-color: transparent;"&gt;In This Episode, We Cover:&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;ul&gt;&lt;li&gt;&lt;span style="background-color: transparent;"&gt;Why transplant pharmacy is different&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/li&gt;&lt;li&gt;&lt;span style="background-color: transparent;"&gt;How TOP provides continuous, specialized care that goes far beyond dispensing medications.&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/li&gt;&lt;li&gt;&lt;span style="background-color: transparent;"&gt;Medication adherence made easier&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/li&gt;&lt;li&gt;&lt;span style="background-color: transparent;"&gt;The impact of blister packaging, delivery across Ontario, and proactive dose management in helping patients stay on track, catching complications early&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/li&gt;&lt;li&gt;&lt;span style="background-color: transparent;"&gt;How frequent check-ins and strong patient relationships help pharmacists identify side effects and concerns before they become serious.&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/li&gt;&lt;li&gt;&lt;span style="background-color: transparent;"&gt;Navigating medication fears&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/li&gt;&lt;li&gt;&lt;span style="background-color: transparent;"&gt;Honest conversations about side effects, what to expect, and how care teams adjust treatment to fit each patient’s needs.&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/li&gt;&lt;li&gt;&lt;span style="background-color: transparent;"&gt;What transplant patients need to know about over-the-counter medications, supplements, and everyday risks.&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/li&gt;&lt;li&gt;&lt;span style="background-color: transparent;"&gt;Breaking down financial barriers&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/li&gt;&lt;li&gt;&lt;span style="background-color: transparent;"&gt;How medication reimbursement specialists help patients access coverage, reduce out-of-pocket costs, and navigate complex insurance systems.&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/li&gt;&lt;li&gt;&lt;span style="background-color: transparent;"&gt;The future of transplant pharmacy&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/li&gt;&lt;li&gt;&lt;span style="background-color: transparent;"&gt;Innovations like blister pack automation, refill reminders, and text-based systems designed to make care even more accessible.&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/li&gt;&lt;/ul&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;br&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;strong style="background-color: transparent;"&gt;Links and Resources&lt;/strong&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;span style="background-color: transparent;"&gt;Learn more about the UHN Transplant Outpatient Pharmacy (TOP): &lt;/span&gt;&lt;a href="https://www.uhn.ca/Transplant/TOP" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(17, 85, 204);"&gt;https://www.uhn.ca/Transplant/TOP&lt;/a&gt;&lt;span style="background-color: transparent;"&gt; &lt;/span&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;Learn more about living organ donation: www.livingorgandonation.ca&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;span style="background-color: transparent;"&gt;Living Kidney &amp;amp; Liver Donation at UHN: &lt;/span&gt;&lt;a href="https://www.uhn.ca/Transplant/Kidney_Transplant_Program" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(17, 85, 204);"&gt;UHN Ajmera Transplant Centre&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;span style="background-color: transparent;"&gt;Information Sessions for potential donors: &lt;/span&gt;&lt;a href="http://givelifeuhn.eventbrite.ca" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(17, 85, 204);"&gt;givelifeuhn.eventbrite.ca&lt;/a&gt;&lt;span style="background-color: transparent;"&gt;&amp;nbsp; &lt;/span&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;Becoming a living donor:&lt;strong style="background-color: transparent;"&gt; &lt;/strong&gt;&lt;a href="https://www.uhn.ca/Transplant/Pages/become_living_donor.aspx" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(17, 85, 204);"&gt;https://www.uhn.ca/Transplant/Pages/become_living_donor.aspx&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;span style="background-color: transparent;"&gt;Kidney Foundation of Canada – Living Donation &lt;/span&gt;&lt;a href="https://kidney.ca/Get-Involved/Be-a-Living-Donor" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(17, 85, 204);"&gt;https://kidney.ca/Get-Involved/Be-a-Living-Donor&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;span style="background-color: transparent;"&gt;Trillium Gift of Life Network – Organ Donation in Ontario&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;a href="https://www.giftoflife.on.ca" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(17, 85, 204);"&gt;https://www.giftoflife.on.ca&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;br&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;br&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;span style="background-color: transparent;"&gt;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.&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;br&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;strong style="background-color: transparent;"&gt;About our Host&lt;/strong&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;span style="background-color: transparent;"&gt;Candice Coghlan is the Education &amp;amp; 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. &lt;/span&gt;&lt;span style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(33, 37, 41);"&gt;After she was diagnosed with kidney failure in her early 20s, she was on dialysis until receiving a transplant from her mother.&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;br&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;span style="background-color: transparent;"&gt;Have questions? Comments? Ideas for an episode? Please reach out to the&lt;/span&gt;&lt;a href="https://www.uhn.ca/Transplant/Living_Donor_Program/Centre_for_Living_Organ_Donation" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(0, 0, 0);"&gt; &lt;/a&gt;&lt;a href="https://www.uhn.ca/Transplant/Living_Donor_Program/Centre_for_Living_Organ_Donation" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(17, 85, 204);"&gt;Centre for Living Organ Donation&lt;/a&gt;&lt;span style="background-color: transparent;"&gt; at livingorgandonation@uhn.ca. Thanks for spending your time with us.&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;br&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;span style="background-color: transparent;"&gt;The views and opinions expressed in this episode do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of Toronto General or University Health Network.&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/p&gt;</description>

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 un...

Behind Every Transplant: Inside Toronto General's Outpatient Transplant Pharmacy

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 &amp; Liver Donation at UHN: <a href="https://www.uhn.ca/Transplant/Kidney_Transplant_Program" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(17, 85, 204);">UHN Ajmera Transplant Centre</a>Information Sessions for potential donors: <a href="http://givelifeuhn.eventbrite.ca" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(17, 85, 204);">givelifeuhn.eventbrite.ca</a>&nbsp; Becoming a living donor: <a href="https://www.uhn.ca/Transplant/Pages/become_living_donor.aspx" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(17, 85, 204);">https://www.uhn.ca/Transplant/Pages/become_living_donor.aspx</a>Kidney Foundation of Canada – Living Donation <a href="https://kidney.ca/Get-Involved/Be-a-Living-Donor" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(17, 85, 204);">https://kidney.ca/Get-Involved/Be-a-Living-Donor</a>Trillium Gift of Life Network – Organ Donation in Ontario<a href="https://www.giftoflife.on.ca" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(17, 85, 204);">https://www.giftoflife.on.ca</a> 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 &amp; 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<a href="https://www.uhn.ca/Transplant/Living_Donor_Program/Centre_for_Living_Organ_Donation" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(0, 0, 0);"> </a><a href="https://www.uhn.ca/Transplant/Living_Donor_Program/Centre_for_Living_Organ_Donation" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(17, 85, 204);">Centre for Living Organ Donation</a> 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.

<description>&lt;p&gt;&lt;span style="background-color: transparent;"&gt;Emma didn’t see herself as brave — she simply saw a problem and knew she could help.&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;br&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;span style="background-color: transparent;"&gt;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.&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;br&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;span style="background-color: transparent;"&gt;That persistence led her to the Toronto General Hospital Living Donor Program, where she was ultimately approved to donate.&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;br&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;span style="background-color: transparent;"&gt;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.&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;br&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;span style="background-color: transparent;"&gt;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.&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;br&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;span style="background-color: transparent;"&gt;Her message is simple but powerful: if you are healthy and willing to help, one kidney can change someone’s life.&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;br&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;strong style="background-color: transparent;"&gt;Links and Resources&lt;/strong&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;span style="background-color: transparent;"&gt;Learn more about living organ donation: www.livingorgandonation.ca&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;span style="background-color: transparent;"&gt;Living Kidney &amp;amp; Liver Donation at UHN: &lt;/span&gt;&lt;a href="https://www.uhn.ca/Transplant/Kidney_Transplant_Program" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(17, 85, 204);"&gt;UHN Ajmera Transplant Centre&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;span style="background-color: transparent;"&gt;Information Sessions for potential donors: &lt;/span&gt;&lt;a href="http://givelifeuhn.eventbrite.ca" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(17, 85, 204);"&gt;givelifeuhn.eventbrite.ca&lt;/a&gt;&lt;span style="background-color: transparent;"&gt;&amp;nbsp; &lt;/span&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;Becoming a living donor:&lt;strong style="background-color: transparent;"&gt; &lt;/strong&gt;&lt;a href="https://www.uhn.ca/Transplant/Pages/become_living_donor.aspx" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(17, 85, 204);"&gt;https://www.uhn.ca/Transplant/Pages/become_living_donor.aspx&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;span style="background-color: transparent;"&gt;Kidney Foundation of Canada – Living Donation &lt;/span&gt;&lt;a href="https://kidney.ca/Get-Involved/Be-a-Living-Donor" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(17, 85, 204);"&gt;https://kidney.ca/Get-Involved/Be-a-Living-Donor&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;span style="background-color: transparent;"&gt;Trillium Gift of Life Network – Organ Donation in Ontario&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;a href="https://www.giftoflife.on.ca" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(17, 85, 204);"&gt;https://www.giftoflife.on.ca&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;br&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;span style="background-color: transparent;"&gt;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.&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;br&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;strong style="background-color: transparent;"&gt;About our Host&lt;/strong&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;span style="background-color: transparent;"&gt;Candice Coghlan is the Education &amp;amp; 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. &lt;/span&gt;&lt;span style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(33, 37, 41);"&gt;After she was diagnosed with kidney failure in her early 20s, she was on dialysis until receiving a transplant from her mother.&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;br&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;span style="background-color: transparent;"&gt;Have questions? Comments? Ideas for an episode? Please reach out to the&lt;/span&gt;&lt;a href="https://www.uhn.ca/Transplant/Living_Donor_Program/Centre_for_Living_Organ_Donation" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(0, 0, 0);"&gt; &lt;/a&gt;&lt;a href="https://www.uhn.ca/Transplant/Living_Donor_Program/Centre_for_Living_Organ_Donation" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(17, 85, 204);"&gt;Centre for Living Organ Donation&lt;/a&gt;&lt;span style="background-color: transparent;"&gt; at livingorgandonation@uhn.ca. Thanks for spending your time with us.&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;br&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;span style="background-color: transparent;"&gt;The views and opinions expressed in this episode do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of Toronto General or University Health Network.&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;br&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;br&gt;&lt;/p&gt;</description>

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 t...

A Second Chance for Love: Emma’s Determination to Donate a Kidney at 79 | Patient Stories, Organ Donation and Medical Experts

Living Transplant: Patient Stories | Organ Donation | Medical Experts is a podcast that takes you behind the scenes at the transplant program at Toronto General Hospital with the goal to educate, inspire and fuel your passion about transplant, with your host, Candice Coghlan, an Education & Outreach Coordinator at the Centre for Living Organ Donation at the UHN Ajmera Transplant Centre and a kidney transplant recipient.

Living Transplant: Patient Stories | Organ Donation | Medical Experts

Details

Recent Episodes