Welcome to The Gifted Life!
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Is this your first time visiting The Gifted Life Podcast? Are you trying to figure out where to start with so many episodes? Well, I have to admit, we are getting better with time...so you might not want to start with Episode 1. The Gifted Life has had a multitude of great guests, and I hope you listen to all of the episodes, but here are a few of my favorites.
I think the hardest thing for most people to understand about the donation process is brain death. Dr. Aimee Aysenne does an incredible job of explaining what brain death is, and all the test they use to determine it, in episode 60. After you learn the medical part, you get to hear why it is still hard for some families to accept brain death, from donor mom, Libbie Harrison. It’s definitely a great starting point for anyone trying to learn more about donation.
I was ecstatic to get Robin Roberts (Good Morning America) and Sally-Ann Roberts (WWL TV) on the podcast for our 50th episode to talk about bone marrow donation and how Sally-Ann ended up being a perfect match for Robin. The warm banter between the two sisters reminded me of my own sister, and Robin had some powerful advice I think could help anyone going through a challenging time.
Our whole podcast crew had a great time watching our engineer, Troy, geek out over having Aron Eisenberg, of Star Trek fame, on episode 63. Aron got pretty emotional talking about his 2 kidney transplants and his hope just to have enough time to watch his sons grow up - we were all fans after that interview!
Our hosts Lori, Joey & Sally are amazing and have such a great chemistry. But if you want a different twist, Chillon and I have each hijacked an episode. Chillon became a NASCAR fan after tagging along with the family of James Melton who was honored by racer, Joey Gase in episode 58. (Joey also honored another Louisiana donor, little Ava Grace, in episode 64).
I had the privilege of accompanying two donor families to the Rose Parade where their sons were honored as part of the Donate Life Rose Parade Float in episode 75. Part of the celebration included some famous recipients, former NFL coach, Sam Wyche, and American Idol alum, Scott MacIntyre. I was lucky to interview them both and was touched by their gratitude for all donors and their families.
Wherever you decide to start, we would love to know what you think. Please leave us a comment or fill out the submit a topic form if you have an idea for a future podcast. Please register to be a donor at registerme.org and share this information with your family and friends. Thanks for listening!
written by Kirsten Heintz