Entries by ATF Staff

Tree of Life 2025: How Your Generosity Lit Up the Holidays for Transplant Kids

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Tree of Life 2025

Twelve Kids. Twelve Stories of Courage. One Community That Showed Up.

A look back at the 2025 Tree of Life — and the twelve transplant kids whose resilience inspired a season of extraordinary generosity.

American Transplant Foundation  •  February 2026

A baby born at 22 weeks, fighting liver cancer from a hospital bed. A teenager with a rare liver disease who has lost both his father and grandfather, afraid he won’t see the world beyond his room. A 10-year-old who performed CPR to save her own mother’s life. These are the children of the 2025 Tree of Life.

Every holiday season, the American Transplant Foundation’s Tree of Life program supports children who have received a life-saving organ transplant or are still waiting for one — children whose families face staggering medical expenses, displacement, and the emotional toll of caring for a critically ill child.

In 2025, our community came together to support twelve remarkable kids and their families. One hundred percent of every donation went directly to these families — helping with medical bills, travel for treatment, rent, groceries, and the everyday necessities that become impossible when your world revolves around keeping your child alive.

Here are their stories.

100%

Of donations go directly to families

12

Children supported in 2025

15+

Years of Tree of Life giving

Meet the 2025 Tree of Life Kids

Each of these children has faced challenges that most of us can barely imagine. What unites them is a courage far beyond their years — and families who never stop fighting for them.

Quinn
Heart • Waiting for Transplant
Quinn was born with a serious heart condition and has lived in the ICU since birth, relying on a device to keep her heart going while waiting for a life-saving transplant. Her family is living apart — juggling hospital life, high medical costs, and caring for her twin sister.

Zoe
Heart • Waiting for Transplant
Zoe is bravely fighting a serious heart condition while waiting for a life-saving transplant. Her family has spent months far from home so she can receive the care she needs.

Samuel
Liver • Partial Transplant Recipient
Born at 22 weeks, Samuel has survived liver cancer, months of chemotherapy, major surgeries, and a partial liver transplant after his cancer returned. His family is currently homeless, living in an extended-stay hotel while struggling with food, transportation, and ongoing medical costs.

Benjamin
Kidney • Transplant Recipient
Born with a serious kidney condition, Benjamin has endured a lifetime of surgeries, infections, and hospital stays. He received a kidney transplant in 2023, but recent tests revealed complications and another transplant is now likely.

Sanaa
Liver • Transplant Recipient • Age 4
Sanaa is a courageous 4-year-old who received a life-saving liver transplant. Her single mom is out of work while caring for her full-time, leaving the family behind on rent and basic needs. Sanaa loves everything unicorn-themed and dreams of returning to gymnastics.

Jake
Liver • Transplant Recipient
Jake was diagnosed with a rare liver disease and underwent a life-saving liver transplant after months of medical complications. His family faces extremely high rent and large medical-related debts.

Mateus
Liver • Transplant Recipient • Age 2
Mateus was just 2½ when he was diagnosed with liver cancer that had spread to his lungs. When other treatments failed, transplant became his only hope. Since January, he hasn’t gone more than two weeks without hospitalization, pushing his family deep into debt.

Hannah
Heart • Transplant Recipient
Hannah inherited the same serious heart condition that nearly killed her brother. After two years on the transplant waitlist — nine months of them in the ICU — she finally received her new heart. But years of crisis have drained her family’s savings, leaving them living paycheck to paycheck.

Callie
Liver • Transplant Recipient
Diagnosed with a serious liver condition at just 6 weeks old, Callie’s liver was in complete failure by 3 months. A life-saving transplant saved her, but the medical costs destroyed her family’s stability. They lost their home and spent two years without stable housing.

Zaine
Liver • Age 16
Zaine has battled a rare and painful liver disease for all 16 years of his life. After losing both his father and grandfather, he now lives with his grandmother, who struggles to afford his medical costs. He’s missed critical appointments, isn’t in school, and spends most days isolated and afraid.

Bryanna
Transplant Family • Age 10
At just 10 years old, Bryanna has had to manage her own medical care after she and her younger sister saved their mom’s life with CPR. Her mom is still recovering and unable to work, and the family relies on expensive ride-shares and delivery services just to get by.

Wyatt
Liver • In Treatment • Born at 26 Weeks
Born at 26 weeks weighing just 1 lb 9 oz, Wyatt was diagnosed with liver cancer this year. He has spent weeks in intensive care and continues treatment while on a trach and ventilator. His family has no reliable vehicle to get to his many medical appointments.

These are not just stories. They are children who show up every day with more bravery than most of us will ever be asked for. And behind each of them is a family holding everything together with love, determination, and not nearly enough support — until you showed up.

What Your Support Made Possible

When you donated to the 2025 Tree of Life, your gift didn’t disappear into overhead costs or administrative fees. One hundred percent of every dollar went directly to these families. For some, that meant catching up on rent after months of missed work. For others, it meant reliable transportation to medical appointments, groceries for a holiday meal, or a gift under the tree for a child who has spent more of their life in a hospital room than out of it.

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More Than a Gift

For these families, a Tree of Life donation is a signal that someone out there sees them. That their child’s fight matters to people they’ve never met. It’s the weight of one less bill, one less impossible choice between medicine and groceries. It’s a child unwrapping a toy on Christmas morning and feeling, for a moment, like any other kid.

Why Programs Like This Matter

The American Transplant Foundation is the only 501(c)(3) nonprofit in the country that provides three tiers of support — educational, emotional, and financial — for living donors, transplant recipients, and their families. The Tree of Life is one of the most direct expressions of that mission: meeting families in their most vulnerable moments with real, tangible help.

Organ transplantation doesn’t just affect the patient. Quinn’s twin sister is growing up apart from her. Samuel’s family lost their home. Hannah’s parents spent two years watching their daughter fight for survival in the ICU. Callie’s family spent two years without stable housing after the medical costs from her infant transplant. These ripple effects are real, and they’re exactly what Tree of Life addresses.

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A Growing Legacy

What started years ago with a physical tree in a Denver office lobby has grown into a nationwide program reaching families across the country. Every year, supporters return to make a difference — and every year, the stories remind us why this work is so urgent.

Thank You — and Looking Ahead

To every person who donated to the 2025 Tree of Life: thank you. You didn’t just brighten a holiday — you told twelve families that their community has their back. That in the middle of one of life’s hardest journeys, they are not alone.

Want to make sure next year’s Tree of Life is even bigger? You can designate your gift to Tree of Life 2026 right now. Simply make a donation and include a note that your gift is for Tree of Life 2026. Every dollar will go directly to supporting transplant kids and their families this coming holiday season.

To read more about each child’s journey and see all of the 2025 testimonials, visit the Tree of Life program page on our website.

Give Early to Tree of Life 2026

Make a donation today and note that it’s for Tree of Life 2026. Your generosity will help us reach even more transplant families this holiday season.

Donate Now


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New Resources to Support Your Transplant Journey

At the American Transplant Foundation, one of our biggest goals is to eliminate barriers for living donors and transplant recipients. We work hard to provide the resources you need—financial and otherwise—to navigate the transplant system with confidence.

We're excited to announce that we've launched brand new guides and refreshed several essential resources to better serve you in 2026. Whether you're facing financial concerns, supporting a loved one through their transplant journey, or seeking the latest information on living donor protections, we have tools to help.

Brand New Resources

1) Affording Organ Transplant Guide

Understanding the financial landscape of transplantation can feel overwhelming. Our comprehensive new guide, Affording Organ Transplant, breaks down transplant-related costs and provides practical strategies for navigating the financial aspects of transplantation.

This guide covers:

  • Understanding the full scope of transplant costs
  • Insurance coverage and what to expect
  • Financial assistance programs available to you
  • Strategies for managing out-of-pocket expenses
  • Planning ahead for post-transplant costs

Whether you're just beginning to explore transplant options or you're already on the waiting list, this resource will help you understand what to expect and how to prepare financially.

Access the guide here.

2) Transplant Caregiver Resource Guide

Caregivers are the unsung heroes of the transplant journey. If you're supporting someone through transplantation, we see you, and we want to support you too.

Our newly launched Transplant Caregiver Resource Guide offers financial, educational, and emotional support resources specifically designed for caregivers. This guide recognizes that caring for a transplant recipient or living donor requires its own set of tools and support systems.

Inside you'll find:

  • Financial resources and assistance programs for caregivers
  • Educational materials to help you understand the transplant process
  • Emotional support resources and self-care strategies
  • Practical tips for managing caregiver responsibilities
  • Community connections and support groups

Taking care of yourself while caring for others isn't selfish—it's essential. Let this guide help you find the support you need.

Access the guide here.

Updated Resources for 2026

We've also refreshed several essential resources with the most current information to ensure you have access to accurate, up-to-date guidance:

1) Financial Resource Guide

Our updated Financial Resource Guide now includes the latest financial resources available for transplant recipients and living organ donors. This comprehensive guide connects you with programs, grants, and assistance opportunities that can help ease the financial burden of transplantation.

2) Living Donor Laws

State-by-state living donor protection laws continue to evolve. Our refreshed Living Donor Laws guide provides current information on legal protections available to living donors across the country, helping you understand your rights and the support available in your state.

3) Organ Dictionary

Medical terminology can be confusing. Our updated Organ Dictionary provides clear definitions and explanations of transplant-related terms, helping you better understand conversations with your medical team and navigate medical documentation with confidence.

4) Media Kit

For advocates, researchers, and media professionals, our refreshed Media Kit now includes the most current statistics and resources related to organ transplantation and living donation.

Finding What You Need Just Got Easier

Along with these new and updated resources, we've given our website a fresh new look! The redesigned site makes it easier than ever to find the information and support you need. We invite you to explore the updated website at americantransplantfoundation.org and discover how simple it is to access the resources that matter most to you.

We're Here for You

These resources represent our commitment to supporting you at every stage of your transplant journey. Whether you're exploring options, waiting for a transplant, recovering from surgery, or supporting someone you love, ATF exists to provide the tools and resources you need to navigate the system with confidence.

If you have questions about any of these resources or need help finding the right support for your situation, please don't hesitate to reach out to us at support@americantransplantfoundation.org. We're here to help.

The American Transplant Foundation works to save lives by reducing the transplant waiting list across the U.S. We eliminate barriers for living donors and provide both donors and recipients with the resources they need -- to navigate the transplant system.


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From 12,000 to 27,500+: How Transplant Talks is Changing the Conversation on Organ Donation

Over 1,107,366 views. More than 27,500 subscribers. Countless lives changed. 

But here's what really matters: somewhere right now, someone is watching an episode of Transplant Talks and realizing they could save a life. A person on the transplant waitlist is discovering they're not alone. A potential donor is finding the courage to take the next step. 

This is why we do what we do. 

The Mission 

When we launched Transplant Talks, our goal was simple: shine a light on the incredible stories in the transplant world and demystify organ donation. What we didn't anticipate was just how hungry people were for these authentic, hope-filled conversations. 

Hosted by Dr. Rachel Davis, a psychiatrist and living liver donor, alongside Anastasia Henry, Executive Director of the American Transplant Foundation, each episode brings together living donors, healthcare experts, and transplant recipients to share stories of courage, hope, and innovation. We break down myths, answer difficult questions, and remind listeners that organ transplantation changes lives every single day. 

This year has been extraordinary. Our YouTube subscriber count more than doubled—from 12,000 to over 27,500. But the numbers, while amazing, tell only part of the story. What truly matters is the community we're building and the lives we're touching. 

2025's Most Powerful Stories 

→ The Quiet Certainty of Giving: Maureen Carrig's Living Liver Donation

Sometimes the most life-changing decisions come with a quiet sense of certainty. 

After learning about the urgent need for pediatric liver transplants at Children's Hospital Colorado, Maureen Carrig made a decision within just days: she would become a living liver donor. In this episode, Maureen reflects on that choice, the nerves of telling others, and the inner confidence that carried her forward. 

She ultimately donated to an adult recipient and became one of the first donors at her center to undergo robotic right-lobe liver donation. Comparing recoveries with co-host Rachel Davis, they discuss surgical differences, overwhelming fatigue, and the emotional impact of donation. Both agree they'd do it again. As Maureen says, "I didn't realize how much it would benefit me as well." 

→ From Catastrophe to Purpose: Dave's Fight to Live

A routine helicopter flight. A devastating crash. Burns over 90% of his body. 

Flight nurse Dave wasn't expected to survive. But after 397 days in the hospital, months in a coma, kidney failure, and countless surgeries, Dave defied every medical expectation. With his wife Amanda by his side every single day, Dave chose to fight forward. 

When his kidneys failed, an acquaintance stepped up as a living donor, giving him another chance at life. Today, Dave and Amanda are passionate advocates for burn survivors, living donation, and helicopter safety—turning unimaginable tragedy into purpose and hope. 

→ Four Kidneys, Endless Hope: Kelsey's Journey

Sometimes perseverance means picking yourself up after one setback. For Kelsey, it meant doing it three times. 

At just 17, routine lab work revealed kidney failure. Her diagnosis of medullary cystic kidney disease forced her to delay college and begin hemodialysis immediately. Her father Steve became her first kidney donor without hesitation. But when her body rejected his kidney, the devastation could have crushed them both. 

Instead, Steve channeled his heartbreak into fierce determination to find another match. What followed was a testament to the resilience of the human spirit: Kelsey's immune system rejected two more kidneys from living donors. Each rejection could have been the end of hope. But Kelsey kept pushing forward. 

Then something remarkable happened: a stranger, moved by a billboard sharing Kelsey's need, came forward to donate. That kidney has now sustained her for nine years. 

Today, Kelsey works as a social worker in a dialysis center, supporting others through the same challenges she once faced. "I just had to keep pushing forward," she says—a mindset that continues to guide not just her life, but the lives of the patients she serves. 

→ All Things Liver: Dr. James Burton Answers Your Questions

How does alcohol really lead to liver damage? Is binge drinking as bad as drinking every day? What are the early warning signs of liver disease? 

Dr. James Burton from CU Anschutz tackled the questions so many people are afraid to ask. His expertise and approachable style made complex medical information accessible to everyone—whether you're concerned about your own health, supporting a loved one, or simply curious about how this vital organ works. 

→ Toxic Positivity That Saves Lives: Kerre's Remarkable Journey

Kerre has been accused of having "toxic positivity"—but her optimism became her lifeline. 

The day after her 50th birthday—the same day she was convinced she would die—Kerre received the gift of life: a liver transplant. Her diagnosis had been elusive, making her journey even more frightening. But through it all, Kerre maintained her characteristic optimism. 

Today, she uses her experience to support and inspire others facing similar challenges. She's become a passionate advocate for organ donation, proving that sometimes a positive attitude really can be a superpower. 

→ Healthcare Without Borders: Dr. Sixto Giusti on a Critical Issue

Some of our most important conversations are also the most difficult. 

Dr. Sixto Giusti, Associate Professor of Medicine and Director of the Hispanic Transplant Clinic at CU Anschutz, joined us to discuss transplantation in the context of migration—with a particular focus on undocumented immigrants in the United States. 

This episode tackles the ethical, medical, and practical questions surrounding access to transplantation for all patients, regardless of immigration status. It's a controversial topic, but one that's crucial to address if we're serious about equity in healthcare. 

→ From Burnout to Breakthrough: Dr. Jeff Druck's Candid Conversation

In one of our most deeply personal episodes, Dr. Jeff Druck, an emergency medicine physician and Vice Chair for Faculty Advancement, Transformation, and Wellbeing at the University of Utah, opened up about a topic that too often stays hidden: mental health challenges among healthcare professionals. 

Dr. Druck and co-host Anastasia Henry explored the complex intersection of burnout and mental illness, and the very real fears clinicians face about potential repercussions on their medical licenses when they disclose a diagnosis. Anastasia also shared insights into burnout among nonprofit professionals, highlighting the emotional toll of mission-driven work. 

Perhaps most telling, after reaching out to over 100 transplant professionals, not one felt safe enough to publicly share their own struggles with depression or other mental illness. This episode was a brave step toward changing that culture of silence. 

The Impact: More Than Just Numbers 

Every view could be someone learning they're a potential match for a loved one. Every subscriber might be a person on the waitlist finding comfort in knowing they're not alone. Every share could be the catalyst that inspires someone to register as an organ donor. 

Transplant Talks fills a critical gap in transplant education. We've created a space where patients, caregivers, and healthcare professionals can connect, learn, and find hope. Through authentic conversations, we're demystifying living liver and kidney donation, debunking harmful myths, and building a community centered around compassion and life-saving action. 

Your Story Could Change Everything 

Do you have a transplant story to share? 

Whether you're a living donor, transplant recipient, healthcare professional, or family member who has been part of this journey, we want to hear from you. Your experience could give someone else hope. Your story could be the encouragement a potential donor needs. Your voice could help break down barriers and misconceptions around organ donation. 

Share your story through our interest form 

Join the Movement 

As we celebrate this incredible year, we're more committed than ever to our mission. Thousands of people are still waiting for transplants. Countless potential donors don't know they could save lives. So many stories are waiting to be told. 

Here's how you can help: 

Listen & Subscribe: 

Get Involved: 

Every single person who engages with Transplant Talks—whether by listening, sharing, or telling their own story—is helping to save lives through education and advocacy. 

Thank you to our incredible community of listeners, our brave guests who've shared their stories, and everyone who believes in the power of organ donation. 

BONUS: for our viewers ease, now use our playlist function to access content based on specific topics! 


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2025 American Transplant Foundation Holiday Party!

Thank You to All Who Joined Us at Our 2025 Holiday Volunteer Appreciation Party!

We are honored that we were joined by our volunteers at our 2025 Holiday Volunteer Appreciation Party! This year's celebration was filled with warmth, gratitude, and the spirit of giving that defines our community.

Volunteers gathered to enjoy delicious food, festive beverages, and wonderful camaraderie. The evening was a perfect opportunity to reflect on another incredible year of service and to celebrate the connections that make our work possible. While the party was scheduled for two hours, everyone was having such a wonderful time chatting and catching up that we ended up staying for three and a half hours! The laughter, stories, and friendships shared throughout the evening were a beautiful testament to the strong bonds within our transplant community.

This year marked a major milestone- our 20th anniversary! We celebrated two decades of supporting the transplant community, and we could not have reached this remarkable achievement without our dedicated volunteers. Our big 20th anniversary event earlier this year would not have been possible without each and every one of you who give your time, energy, and hearts to this mission.

As always, we celebrated all the lives saved through transplantation. Anastasia Henry, our Executive Director, proudly shared the American Transplant Foundation's accomplishments this year—milestones we could not have achieved without the dedication of our volunteers and the generosity of our supporters. Our mentorship program, which provides invaluable peer support to those navigating their transplant journey, simply would not exist without our volunteers. We are so grateful for each and every one of you.

One of the highlights of the evening was our beloved Tree of Life, where guests had the chance to "adopt" Patient Assistance Grant Recipients. Thanks to the overwhelming generosity of our attendees, our Tree of Life families will be receiving special gifts this holiday season - a reminder that they are not alone on their transplant journey.

Guests also enjoyed our signature ATF Bingo, a photo booth with fun props, and took home special holiday gift bags. Many of our volunteers have been working side by side for years, and this event provided a wonderful opportunity to strengthen those bonds while welcoming new faces to our transplant community. Everybody had a blast!

We would like to extend our heartfelt thanks to all our amazing volunteers. Your continued commitment to our mission makes events like these possible - and more importantly, makes lifesaving support possible for those who need it most.

2025 has been an extraordinary year! We're looking forward to saving even more lives and creating more moments of celebration in 2026.

Interested in joining our volunteer team? Learn more about volunteer opportunities and internship opportunities with the American Transplant Foundation.

Holiday Party Photos

Here's what we've been up to lately... 

Transplant Games of America 2026: A Well-Deserved Celebration for Our Very Own Rocky Mountain Team

Read More 

Tree of Life 2025: How Your Generosity Lit Up the Holidays for Transplant Kids

Read More 

New Resources to Support Your Transplant Journey

Read More 

From 12,000 to 27,500+: How Transplant Talks is Changing the Conversation on Organ Donation

Read More 

Scott La Point Conquers the Triple Bypass Ride

Longtime ATF supporter, living kidney donor, and cycling enthusiast Scott La Point once again proved that determination, faith, and community can move mountains—literally. On July 13, Scott took on Colorado’s iconic Triple Bypass ride, pedaling an astonishing 118 miles through three steep mountain passes: Echo Lake, Loveland Pass, and Vail Pass. With nearly 11,800 feet of climbing and 9 hours and 54 minutes of saddle time, Scott’s effort wasn’t just a physical challenge—it was a powerful act of advocacy for transplant patients and living donors.

Leading up to the ride, Scott had one major concern: the heat. With forecasts calling for temperatures in the mid-90s, he knew that high temperatures could make the already difficult ride even more daunting. So, he prayed—for clouds, for rain, and for a break from the blistering sun. And, as Scott joyfully reports, “I got both!”

Cloudy skies and light rain accompanied Scott, his wife Amy (who completed the Double Bypass—80 miles and 7,300 feet of climbing), and their friend Tim (who flew in from Wisconsin to acclimate for the ride) through the grueling but exhilarating journey. Spirits remained high throughout the day, and aside from one flat tire, Team Transplant rolled into Avon in triumph.

Together, they raised nearly $3,300 in support of the American Transplant Foundation’s Patient Assistance Program, which provides direct financial relief to transplant recipients and living donors who face overwhelming medical expenses. Every mile they rode helped make life-saving support possible for those in need.

Scott, who donated a kidney to his friend Jim in 2017, continues to turn his passion for cycling into a powerful platform for change. He and Amy have spent years riding across Colorado with Team Transplant, raising awareness, celebrating life, and rallying support for others in the transplant community.

Scott says he’s already thinking about next year’s Triple—and is especially looking forward to seeing everyone at Trivia For Life in October. From all of us at the American Transplant Foundation: thank you, Scott, Amy, Tim, and every donor who contributed to this ride. Your dedication is changing lives.


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Organ Donation on the Big Screen

Organ donation saves lives and offers hope to thousands of families, but for many, it remains a complex and unfamiliar topic. One powerful way to understand it more deeply is through film. Whether inspired by true events or told through fiction, movies about organ donation can open hearts and minds, helping viewers connect with the real-life experiences behind the headlines. 

We’ve curated a selection of films that portray the emotional, ethical, and human sides of organ donation and transplantation. These stories not only educate but also inspire reflection and conversation, offering a meaningful way to learn about the gift of life. 

1. Return to Me (2000)

After the sudden loss of his wife, a grieving man finds unexpected love with a woman who received her heart in a transplant. This romantic drama offers a touching look at how organ donation can create powerful, life-affirming connections between strangers.

2. Seven Pounds (2008)

A man with a mysterious past seeks to atone for his mistakes by drastically changing the lives of seven strangers, some of whom become recipients of his organs after his death. This film explores themes of sacrifice and redemption through organ donation.

3. Heal the Living (2016)

This French drama delicately weaves together the stories of a teenager's tragic accident, his family’s decision to donate his organs, and the recipient whose life is forever changed. The film portrays the emotional journey of donation with compassion and depth.

4. 2 Hearts (2020)

Based on a true story, this film follows two seemingly unrelated couples whose lives become intertwined through organ donation. With themes of love, faith, and legacy, 2 Hearts shines a light on the enduring impact one donor can have.

5. Aye Zindagi (2022)

Inspired by real events, this Indian film tells the story of a young man in need of a liver transplant and his evolving bond with a hospital grief counselor. Their connection highlights the emotional resilience and hope that often accompanies the transplant journey.

6. Ordinary Angels (2024)

Inspired by a true story, this uplifting film follows a determined hairdresser who mobilizes her community to help a widowed father and his critically ill daughter in need of a liver transplant. Ordinary Angels highlights the power of generosity, community, and the life-saving gift of organ donation.

Organ donation is more than a medical procedure — it's a gift that transforms lives. These films, inspired by true stories and human experiences, offer a window into the emotions, challenges, and hope that surround the transplant journey. Whether you're new to the topic or looking to deepen your understanding, we hope these stories inspire reflection and spark conversations about the life-saving impact of donation. 

If you're moved by these stories, consider learning more about becoming a donor or supporting transplant patients in your community. Every action, big or small, helps bring hope to those waiting for a second chance at life. 


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The Cost of Saving Lives: Burnout in Transplant Professionals

Transplantation is one of the most demanding fields in medicine, where life-saving decisions are made daily. But behind the complex procedures and critical care, many transplant professionals are grappling with overwhelming stress, long hours, and burnout. These challenges not only impact their well-being but also the quality of patient care. 

A Crisis of Exhaustion 

A recent study revealed that 78% of liver transplant specialists reported experiencing some level of burnout. Among the 212 professionals surveyed, many faced exhaustion, irritability, lack of motivation, and even depression. Major contributors included long working hours, excessive administrative tasks, and insufficient institutional support. 

Similar findings were observed among professionals in the field of hematopoietic cell transplantation (HCT), where 40% of respondents reported experiencing burnout. Pharmacists, in particular, had the highest burnout rates at over 50%. Advanced Practice Providers (APPs) and physicians also faced significant emotional exhaustion, with physicians reporting high levels of depersonalization. 

Work-life balance was a common concern in both studies, especially for physicians. In the HCT study, only 31% of physicians reported a healthy work-life balance, with those working more than 60 hours per week or being frequently on-call having the highest burnout rates. Burnout was also more prevalent among younger professionals and women, particularly in roles that offered less career advancement or control over work schedules. 

The Emotional Toll of End-of-Life Counseling 

This emotional strain is further compounded by the pressures of end-of-life counseling (EOLC), a key aspect of care for transplant professionals. A separate study explored whether EOLC training could alleviate this stress. EOLC training aims to help healthcare providers navigate difficult conversations with patients and families when transplants are no longer a viable option. 

However, the study revealed that despite receiving EOLC training, 37% of respondents still reported experiencing moral injury—a psychological distress that occurs when professionals feel forced to act against their moral or ethical beliefs—indicating that the training did not significantly reduce either moral injury or emotional distress. 

Instead, the study found that stronger workplace support and team camaraderie were the most effective stress relievers. This suggests that while EOLC training can provide valuable skills, it is the organizational environment and systemic support that may hold the key to reducing the emotional toll on transplant professionals. 

Moving Forward: The Need for Institutional Change 

Across all the studies, the central theme is clear: burnout, moral injury, and emotional exhaustion are widespread issues among transplant professionals. While training and career satisfaction remain important, it’s evident that organizational support, better work-life balance, and a shift in workplace culture are necessary to help transplant teams thrive. 

By creating healthier work environments, we can ensure transplant professionals continue to provide life-saving care while safeguarding their own well-being. 


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Sources: 

PMC, 2024

PMC, 2023

PMC, 2021


National Kidney Month: Supporting Kidney Health

March is National Kidney Month, a time dedicated to raising awareness about kidney health and the critical role kidneys play in our overall well-being. With over 35 million people living with kidney disease, this month serves as a reminder to prioritize kidney health and understand the importance of organ donation. Whether it's taking steps to prevent kidney disease or supporting those in need of a transplant, there are countless ways we can make a difference. 

What is National Kidney Month?

National Kidney Month is observed every March to raise awareness about kidney health, the risks of kidney disease, and the importance of early detection and prevention. It's never too early to start learning about your kidney heath and taking action to keep your kidneys healthy. With millions affected by kidney disease—many unknowingly—National Kidney Month serves as a crucial reminder to prioritize kidney health and advocate for better access to care and treatment.

Understanding Kidney Disease

The kidneys are vital organs that filter waste, excess fluids, and toxins from the blood while maintaining the body's overall balance of minerals. However, factors such as diabetes, high blood pressure, obesity, and a family history of kidney disease significantly increase the risk of developing kidney-related complications.

When the kidneys begin to fail, waste builds up in the body, leading to serious health issues, including heart disease, nerve damage, and even death. For many, dialysis becomes the only option, with over 555,000 Americans currently relying on it to survive.

Who Is Most at Risk?

Kidney disease does not affect everyone equally. Studies show that people of color are at a greater risk due to genetic predisposition, social determinants of health, and limited access to early healthcare interventions. While people of color make up 14% of the population, but account for 30% of people with End Stage Kidney Disease. This highlights the urgent need for improved healthcare policies, community outreach, and equitable access to kidney disease prevention programs.

Kidney disease has become the fastest-growing non-communicable disease in the U.S., underscoring the need for widespread education and advocacy.

The Deadly Toll of Kidney Disease

If left untreated, kidney disease can lead to kidney failure, requiring either a transplant or lifelong dialysis treatments. The consequences can be devastating—each year, 57,937 deaths occur due to causes related to kidney failure.

While these numbers are staggering, kidney disease is often preventable and manageable when caught early. That’s why regular screenings and proactive health management are so important.

Your kidneys work hard to keep you healthy—now it's time to return the favor. Here are some steps you can take to reduce your risk of kidney disease:

Get Screened: If you have diabetes, high blood pressure, or a family history of kidney disease, regular kidney function tests can help detect problems early.
Eat a Kidney-Friendly Diet: Focus on fresh fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins while limiting processed foods, excessive salt, and sugary drinks.
Stay Hydrated: Drinking enough water helps your kidneys function properly and flush out toxins.
Control Blood Sugar & Blood Pressure: Keeping these levels in check is essential for reducing kidney disease risk.
Avoid Excessive NSAIDs: Overuse of painkillers like ibuprofen and naproxen can damage the kidneys over time.
Maintain a Healthy Lifestyle: Regular exercise, quitting smoking, and managing stress can all contribute to better kidney health.

Make Time for Sleep: Aim to get 7 to 8 hours of sleep per night

It may seem difficult, but all the small things make a big difference on the journey to healthy kidneys! Find out more information about transplants and ways you can make a difference. 


All About Transplants


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Learn More about Living Donations

Sources: 

FastStats - Kidney Disease

National Kidney Month 2025 - NIDDK

Kidney Disease Statistics for the United States - NIDDK

Chronic Kidney Disease in the United States, 2021