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.
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From Blood Donation to Double Living Donor: Tyler’s Kidney and Liver Donation Story
Saison 7 · Épisode 1
jeudi 17 septembre 2026 • Durée 36:09
In this special episode, Candice sits down with Tyler, a double living organ donor whose journey began with donating blood and eventually led him to donate both a portion of his liver and a kidney. Tyler first became interested in living donation after years of donating blood and wondering about the direct impact his donations could have. He decided to anonymously donate part of his liver to someone he had never met, ultimately becoming a living liver donor at UHN’s Ajmera Transplant Centre. But his story didn’t end with one donation. Tyler decided to pursue anonymous kidney donation as well.
Then, an extraordinary series of connections changed everything. Years earlier, Tyler had met a couple while on vacation. Through a series of remarkable coincidences, he later discovered that they were connected to people in his own family—and eventually learned that the woman he had met was experiencing kidney failure and needed a transplant. Tyler had already begun the process of becoming an anonymous kidney donor. He wondered whether his donation could instead be directed to her. After going through the necessary testing, they discovered they were a match.
Together, Tyler and Candice talk about the emotional experience of anonymous donation, family concerns, recovery from two very different surgeries, and what it means to see the impact of a donation unfold over time. Tyler also reflects on the idea that one donation can affect far more than a single recipient—from a recipient’s spouse and children to the people waiting behind them on the transplant list. Whether you are considering living donation, have been touched by transplantation, or simply want to hear a remarkable story about generosity and human connection, this conversation is a powerful reminder that one decision can change far more lives than we may ever see.
In This Episode
● How Tyler’s journey into living donation began with blood donation
● Why he decided to anonymously donate part of his liver to a stranger
● How Tyler and his family navigated the fear and uncertainty surrounding donation
● Why Tyler decided to pursue a second donation—a kidney
● The incredible series of coincidences that connected Tyler with his kidney recipient
● The difference between recovering from liver and kidney donation
● The ripple effect of living donation and how one donation can impact an entire family
● What Tyler wishes more people understood about living donation
● Why he believes one decision can have a much greater impact than we may ever see
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 Host
Candice Coghlan is the Education & Outreach Coordinator at the Centre for Living Organ Donation at the UHN Ajmera Transplant Centre. She is also a National Board Member for the Kidney Foundation of Canada 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 Centre for Living Organ Donation at livingorgandonation@uhn.ca.
The views and opinions expressed in this episode do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of Toronto General or University Health Network.
The Gosling Effect: How One Anonymous Liver Donor Redefined What’s Possible in Transplant Medicine
Saison 6 · Épisode 21
jeudi 25 juin 2026 • Durée 43:27
In this special episode, Candice sits down with Kevin Gosling, the first person in Canada to anonymously donate part of his liver to a stranger, made possible at UHN’s Ajmera Transplant Centre. More than 20 years later, his decision continues to shape the future of living organ donation.
Kevin shares how a simple question—What about people who don't have someone to donate for them?—led him on a journey that challenged medical norms, changed hospital policies, and ultimately created what many now call "The Gosling Effect."
Together, they discuss the barriers he faced, the emotional moments that stayed with him, the ripple effect of one selfless act, and why he believes ordinary people are capable of extraordinary generosity.
Whether you're curious about living donation, have been touched by transplantation, or simply need a reminder of the good that exists in the world, this conversation is one you won't forget.
In This Episode
How Kevin first learned that living donation to a stranger was possible
Why he refused to accept "we don't do that" as an answer
The challenges of becoming Canada's first anonymous living liver donor
The ethical questions and medical concerns behind a historic first
The support of family throughout the donation journey
Receiving a letter from the recipient's family for the first time
The origin of the "Gosling Effect" and its lasting impact
Why anonymous donation comes from a different kind of motivation
A powerful analogy about saving a life and taking a leap of faith
Kevin's hopes for the future of transplantation and organ donation
Links
Learn more about living organ donation:
Never Lose Hope: Jess Bailey on Community, Dragon Boats and the Gift of Life
Saison 6 · Épisode 20
jeudi 11 juin 2026 • Durée 43:40
Growing up with kidney disease can feel isolating, but as this episode reminds us, you are never alone.
In this episode of the Living Transplant Podcast, host Candice Coghlan sits down with longtime friend, advocate, transplant recipient and dragon boat coach Jess Bailey. Diagnosed with kidney disease as a child, Jess shares what it was like navigating school, friendships, dialysis and two kidney transplants while learning to embrace being different.
Jess opens up about the realities of life after transplant, why a transplant is "a long-term temporary solution," and how community, peer support and sport have helped shape her journey. Together, Candice and Jess discuss the power of the Kidney Paired Donation Program, the importance of living donation, and the incredible impact that nurses, healthcare teams and fellow transplant recipients can have along the way.
The conversation also explores the Transplant Games, dragon boating, survivor's guilt, adapting to dialysis, and why hope remains at the heart of the transplant community.
Whether you're living with kidney disease, waiting for a transplant, supporting someone you love, or simply curious about organ donation, this episode is a reminder that there is always a community ready to welcome you.
In This Episode
Growing up with kidney disease and dialysisNavigating childhood and high school while feeling "different"Receiving a first kidney transplant as a child that lasted nearly 24 yearsLife after transplant and managing lifelong medicationsWhy transplant is not a cureFinding belonging through dragon boating and the Transplant GamesThe importance of peer support and patient communitiesAdvice for newly diagnosed kidney patientsUnderstanding the Kidney Paired Donation ProgramThe generosity of living organ donorsHope for the future of transplantation and medical innovationGratitude for healthcare teams and transplant nurses
Beyond the Perfect Match: How HLA Science Is Changing Transplant
Saison 6 · Épisode 19
jeudi 28 mai 2026 • Durée 34:47
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.
In This Episode:
What HLA actually means and why it matters
The truth about “perfect matches” in organ transplant
How antibodies affect transplant compatibility
Why highly sensitized patients face additional challenges
The future of molecular matching and predictive transplant science
How UHN teams collaborate across transplant programs
Innovations in organ preservation and perfusion technology
The behind-the-scenes role of Medical Laboratory Technologists (MLTs)
Eight Weeks for a Lifetime: Maigen’s Journey as a Living Liver Donor
Saison 6 · Épisode 18
jeudi 7 mai 2026 • Durée 37:26
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:
Maigen’s spontaneous decision to become a living liver donor during the early days of COVID-19
How a simple “why not?” mindset led to a life-changing journey
The realities of donor testing, including unexpected challenges like rapid weight loss
Navigating transplant logistics and emotional stress during a global pandemic
The importance of communication, advocacy, and support systems throughout the process
What recovery really looks like—and how quickly life can begin to feel “normal” again
The evolving meaning of her transplant scar—from insecurity to a badge of honour
The impact of donation on family relationships, identity, and future outlook
Advice for potential donors and caregivers navigating uncertainty
You Don’t Look Sick: Fadia on Invisible Illness, Advocacy, Redefining Life on Dialysis, and the Transplant Journey
Saison 6 · Épisode 17
jeudi 16 avril 2026 • Durée 38:06
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.
Key Topics
Living donor kidney transplant and sibling donation
Returning to dialysis after transplant
Redefining “balance” and embracing rest
Invisible illness and “you don’t look sick”
Motherhood, career, and chronic illness
The importance of support systems and asking for help
Patient advocacy and being the expert of your own body
Navigating the healthcare system and medical mistrust
Cultural safety and equity in organ donation and transplantation
The impact of community: ACB Organ Health Committee
Links
Learn more about living organ donation: www.livingorgandonation.ca
Behind Every Transplant: Inside Toronto General's Outpatient Transplant Pharmacy
Saison 6 · Épisode 16
jeudi 2 avril 2026 • Durée 38:18
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:
Why transplant pharmacy is different
How TOP provides continuous, specialized care that goes far beyond dispensing medications.
Medication adherence made easier
The impact of blister packaging, delivery across Ontario, and proactive dose management in helping patients stay on track, catching complications early
How frequent check-ins and strong patient relationships help pharmacists identify side effects and concerns before they become serious.
Navigating medication fears
Honest conversations about side effects, what to expect, and how care teams adjust treatment to fit each patient’s needs.
What transplant patients need to know about over-the-counter medications, supplements, and everyday risks.
Breaking down financial barriers
How medication reimbursement specialists help patients access coverage, reduce out-of-pocket costs, and navigate complex insurance systems.
The future of transplant pharmacy
Innovations like blister pack automation, refill reminders, and text-based systems designed to make care even more accessible.
A Second Chance for Love: Emma’s Determination to Donate a Kidney at 79 | Patient Stories, Organ Donation and Medical Experts
Saison 6 · Épisode 15
jeudi 19 mars 2026 • Durée 29:44
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 Resources
Learn more about living organ donation: www.livingorgandonation.ca
International Women’s Day: Dr. Irene Kim on Motherhood, Mentorship & Transplant Leadership
Saison 6 · Épisode 14
dimanche 8 mars 2026 • Durée 16:45
In this special International Women’s Day bonus episode of the Living Transplant Podcast, we sit down with Dr. Irene Kim — abdominal transplant surgeon, Director of the Transplant Center at Cedars-Sinai, and the Esther and Mark Schulman Endowed Chair in Transplant Medicine.
Beyond her many titles, Dr. Kim is also a mentor, a leader, and a mother. In this thoughtful and deeply human conversation, she reflects on the realities of balancing a demanding surgical career with family life, the mentors who shaped her journey in transplant medicine, and the lessons that come with leadership.
Dr. Kim shares why motherhood has been one of the most humbling roles in her life, how strong support systems make success possible, and why mentorship doesn’t have to be gendered. She also opens up about how personal experiences with illness can reshape the way physicians connect with their patients.
The episode closes with a powerful reflection inspired by author J.D. Salinger — a reminder that in a world constantly pushing us to do more and be more, sometimes the most meaningful realization is simply knowing when we already have enough.
In honour of International Women’s Day, this conversation celebrates the women leading, caring, mentoring, and shaping the future of medicine and our communities.
Links and Resources
Cedars-Sinai Medical Center: https://www.cedars-sinai.org
Guiding the Gift: Behind the Scenes with a Living Kidney Donor Coordinator
Saison 6 · Épisode 13
jeudi 5 mars 2026 • Durée 37:08
What really happens when someone decides to become a living kidney donor?
In this episode of Living Transplant, Candice sits down with UHN living donor kidney coordinator Melinda Skadorwa to unpack the full donor journey — from the first health questionnaire to surgery day and beyond. Melinda shares how she found her way into transplant nursing, what a typical (and often unpredictable) day looks like, and the most common fears and misconceptions she hears from potential donors. The conversation explores the emotional and logistical realities of donation, including financial barriers, white coat anxiety, and the importance of strong support systems. Listeners will also learn how innovative programs like Kidney Paired Donation and List Exchange are helping more Canadians receive life-saving transplants — even when donors and recipients aren’t compatible. Whether you’re considering donation, supporting someone who is, or simply curious about how living donation works, this episode offers an honest and compassionate look behind the scenes.
What You’ll Learn in This Episode:
How Melinda’s path led her into transplant care
What living donor coordinators actually do
Step-by-step overview of the living donor evaluation process
Common myths and fears about kidney donation
Life after donation: recovery and long-term outlook
How Kidney Paired Donation expands transplant access across Canada
The unique impact of non-directed (anonymous) donors
Barriers donors may face — including financial and system challenges
Emotional supports available for living donors
Advice for anyone thinking about becoming a donor
Links and Resources
Learn more about living organ donation: www.livingorgandonation.ca
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 Host
Candice Coghlan is the Education & 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 theCentre for Living Organ Donation 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.
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 Host
Candice Coghlan is the Education & 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 theCentre for Living Organ Donation 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.
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 Host
Candice Coghlan is the Education & 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 theCentre for Living Organ Donation 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.
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 Host
Candice Coghlan is the Education & 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 theCentre for Living Organ Donation 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.
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 Host
Candice Coghlan is the Education & 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 theCentre for Living Organ Donation 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.
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 Host
Candice Coghlan is the Education & 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 theCentre for Living Organ Donation 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.
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 Host
Candice Coghlan is the Education & 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 theCentre for Living Organ Donation 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.
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 Host
Candice Coghlan is the Education & 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 theCentre for Living Organ Donation 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.
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 Host
Candice Coghlan is the Education & 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 theCentre for Living Organ Donation 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.
