We Can All Use a Little Support

TANYA

Tanya’s health issues started when she was only eight years old. At a doctor’s appointment, they found her blood pressure was off the charts, and she was sent directly to the emergency room. She was admitted to the hospital and while there, she had a kidney biopsy. Tanya was diagnosed with Berger's disease, or IgA nephropathy, an autoimmune deficiency that attacks your kidneys. 

Tanya was put on medications and did well for many years. She grew up, went to school, got married, and, in 2004, got pregnant with her son. Tanya was five months along, and her body couldn't handle the pregnancy anymore. Tanya sadly ended up losing her son and then went into complete renal failure. That was in October of 2004, and by February of 2005, she was told she would need a transplant.

Tanya’s mom was her living kidney donor 19 years ago, and although there have been some setbacks and lifestyle changes, Tanya has been well. She has become an advocate for IgA and wants to share her experience with others with kidney disease or kidney transplant recipients.

NOULIS

Noulis worked in healthcare administration for over 15 years, developing a good understanding of healthcare operations, patient care, and the intricacies of medical systems.

In August 2022, his life took an unexpected turn when he was diagnosed with liver disease and informed that a liver transplant was necessary. On August 11, 2023, he successfully underwent a liver transplant, only to face another challenge when his kidneys shut down as a result of the liver disease. After undergoing 11 months of dialysis, he received a kidney transplant on July 4, 2024.

Drawing from his personal experiences with the transplant process, he wants to offer support and guidance to others navigating similar journeys. With a unique perspective on both healthcare administration and patient care, he is passionate about helping individuals understand the complexities of organ transplantation and providing valuable insights into the emotional and practical aspects of the process.

KIM

Kim was admitted to the hospital in January 2002. She was optimistic that I would receive my new heart and be out in time for her daughter’s birthday on February 3. However, her daughter’s birthday passed, as did Valentine’s Day, Easter, Mother’s Day, and then her own birthday in May. As the days turned into weeks, Kim's family established a visiting schedule, creating a ritual that remained uninterrupted.

Finally, on July 2, 2002, Kim was informed that there was a possible heart available for transplant. All she could think about was the donor family who was saying goodbye to their loved one.

After going through the life-altering experience of having a heart transplant, I truly appreciate every day. I see the goodness in people and the bright side of everything. Because I had been ill for so long, there were many things I was unable to do. Kim created a list called “My Heart’s Desire,” which included things to accomplish after my transplant. One item on the list was to talk to everyone about organ donation. Kim volunteers for two organizations and haD the opportunity to meet her donor’s mother. She continues to live life to the fullest and gives back in gratitude for her incredible gift of life.

GREG

is a retired High School teacher of computer science, computer programming, accounting, and public speaking. Greg received a heart transplant in January 2020 after a 14-year wait. Learning and educating are part of who he is. Greg has attended most TRIO activities since 2021 and has been working as a speaker for Lifebanc in high schools, informing and advocating for organ, eye, and tissue donation.

After his “Second Chance at Life” Greg promised himself that he would do everything he could to make his life count for something bigger than himself. Greg feels he has proven to be an honorable recipient and a dedicated advocate for transplanted individuals and organ donation. Greg prides himself on being prompt and emphatic about everything he does.

TONYA

At nine months old, Tonya was diagnosed with cystic fibrosis. This condition made her a shy child who felt “different” from her peers. 

As Tonya grew older, she was determined to live life to the fullest. She graduated from Bellevue High School and The Ohio State University, earning a degree in human ecology with a concentration in dietetics. Tonya worked as a Clinical Nutrition Manager, met and married her husband. They welcomed a baby boy in 2001, naming him after Tonya’s brother, who had passed away from cystic fibrosis.

Despite her achievements, Tonya's lung function continued to decline. In December 2003, she was placed on the national transplant waiting list for a double lung transplant. At that time, Tonya required oxygen 24/7, struggled with exhaustion. Her lung function had dropped to 19%, and she was facing significant difficulties.

After five months on the waiting list, Tonya received “the call” about a potential donor. A gift from a young donor ultimately saved her life. More than 20 years later, Tonya is a national organ, eye, and tissue donation advocate. She works to improve the lives of transplant recipients through organizations like TRIO, the Donate Life Transplant Games, and Team Ohio.

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