Stories of Hope
Three lives saved
All three of her children needed and received heart transplants. Sara knows it took a village to save her children and will spend her life advocating for organ donation so others can have the same chance. Read their story.

Richard Schmidt: Grateful recipient
I hope that our story inspires donors and gives hope to people needing a transplant.
Captain Rob: Finding my hope
Today, I am doing amazingly well. My donor liver feels like I have a new engine inside me and I am forever grateful.
Honoring a life and finding joy in a bowl of cereal
I became a widow at age twenty-eight. My first husband, Matt, collapsed one evening from what we later discovered was a ruptured brain aneurysm.
Kemberlie Hornbeak: Third time’s a charm
January 2021, the beginning of a new year as well as a new chance at life.
Jennifer Wickliffe: Hunter Lives On
Our son was able to save the lives of four people and help with research and education. In knowing that our son lives on has given us a peace that I do not believe we would have been able to obtain.
Thelma Warner: “I will continue to fight until my last breath”
I have found courage and strength I never knew I possessed. I had to dig deep down within my soul to find it but, it was there.
Bridgett Jones-Bolar: Grateful transplant recipient
I‘m thankful I have a chance to give back and educate about transplantation.
Marcus Simon: A life restored
Since I received my new kidney, my life has been restored; and I feel that I’ve had a second chance at life.
Hannah Smith: A match made in heaven
I chose to donate to a man I never met because Jesus didn’t just die for and sacrifice himself for those in his inner circle. He died for everyone; even those who don’t know him.
Mahogany Simmons: Always have faith
I’m so grateful for the donor and grateful that I have the chance to live a second life, to take back my life that I deserve.
Patrick McGlone: Enjoying the moment
Transplanted organs give you a second lease on life and allow you to breath without the constant thought of how your illness will prevent you from enjoying your time.
Austin Lee: Giving back and helping others
Since I received the gift of life for the second time, I’ve made it my purpose to give back to my community.