In this episode, Jeremy sits down with Sara Russo and John Mock from Network for Hope, an independent nonprofit organ procurement organization. Together, they explore the life-changing work of organ and tissue donation — from the hospital bedside to the recipient's second chance at life.

Learn how the organization evolved from a merger between LifeCenter and KODA, now serving 7 million people as one of the largest OPOs in the U.S.

00:00 Jeremy introduces the episode and the theme: highlighting breakthroughs in healthcare through the lens of organ donation.

00:36 Sara Russo (Hospital Partnership Liaison, Network for Hope) and John Mock (organ recipient and ambassador) join the conversation.

01:14 Sara shares her journey from CTI and Cincinnati Children’s to her current role at Network for Hope.

02:19 John reflects on his personal connection as a liver transplant recipient and how clinical trials played a role in his journey.

03:01 The guests discuss how Network for Hope has impacted their lives and shifted their perspectives on organ donation.

04:16 John shares his transplant story, touching on survivor’s guilt and the powerful impact of donation.

06:26 The 2024 merger between LifeCenter and KODA forms Network for Hope — now serving nearly 7 million people.

08:21 Sarah discusses the launch of the first donor care unit in the region, housed in UC’s Flex ICU, and how it's improving organ recovery rates.

11:37 Addressing common misconceptions about donation — from faith concerns to mistrust in hospitals.

14:56 A look at the compassionate approach taken when working with grieving donor families.

15:38 Network for Hope provides six weeks of support followed by a minimum of 18 months through their aftercare team.

17:05 Families participate in honor walks and remembrance ceremonies, recognizing the heroism of donors.

18:11 John shares his unique post-transplant bond with his donor’s family and how they now advocate together.

21:01 Network for Hope encourages transplant recipients to write to their donor families through a new writing station initiative at UC.

23:03 A thoughtful explanation of how donor-recipient relationships are carefully managed and supported.

24:14 Sara and John share what they look forward to most in April — from flag-raising ceremonies to educational outreach.

26:41 Listeners are encouraged to register as donors, volunteer, and speak to their loved ones about their wishes.

27:56 Network for Hope is spotlighted as CTI’s North American Charity of the Quarter. Closing thanks and resources.