Send us a text

Join us on Donor Diaries as we welcome Dr. Harry Wilkins, CEO of Gift of Hope, who transitioned from a 36-year career as a trauma surgeon to leading an organ procurement organization in 2020. With his unique perspective as both a physician and an industry leader, Dr. Wilkins offers a rare behind-the-scenes look at the complex and deeply personal world of deceased organ donation. From the moment of injury to the life-changing decisions families face, he sheds light on the critical role OPOs play in guiding and supporting donor families through the process.

A Chicago native, Dr. Wilkins shares how his childhood fascination with car mechanics unexpectedly led him to a career in surgery, a path shaped by his family's strong values of faith and service. Now, he is driven by a bold vision: a future where no one dies waiting for an organ. He discusses the transformative potential of xenotransplantation, 3D-printed organs, living donation, and emerging advancements in organ preservation—what he calls a growing set of tools in the transplant toolbox.

Throughout our conversation, Dr. Wilkins highlights the dedication of his team at Gift of Hope and their relentless work to save lives every day. He also explores the importance of dispelling myths about organ donation, increasing public awareness, and fostering a culture where donation is the norm.

This episode is an eye-opening look at the challenges and breakthroughs shaping the future of deceased organ transplantation—and the innovative solutions that could one day eliminate transplant waitlists. Tune in for an inspiring and informative discussion with one of the field’s most passionate advocates.

Gift of Hope
National Organ Donor Registry Sign-up
Harry Wilkins Bio
The Art of Effective Physician Education (Book)
Donor Diaries Website
Donor Diaries on Facebook
Connect with Laurie Lee
GiftWorks

Donor Diaries Website
Donor Diaries on Facebook

Send us a text

Join us as we welcome the extraordinary Mike Lollo, a former NYPD detective whose journey led him to become a passionate advocate for kidney donation. Mike's life took an inspiring turn in 2018 when he donated his kidney to a stranger. He shares his remarkable story with us, reflecting on how chance encounters with people like Ned Brooks shaped his mission to transform lives through the power of living donation. This episode highlights Mike's dedication and the profound impact his advocacy has had on individuals like Tommy Alexander and Mark Weiner.

We also explore Mike's career transition from the beat of New York City streets to the intricate logistics of organ transport. His role as chief strategy officer at the National Kidney Registry and his current position with Mobile Network 24 underscore his commitment to the safe and efficient transport of organs. Mike provides an insider's perspective on the complex layers of planning and coordination required to ensure successful transplants, especially when time is of the essence. His insights shed light on the critical importance of reliable transport systems in saving lives.

Mike Lollo is also the host of a new podcast called “Let’s Talk Transplant!” Mike was formerly co-host of the podcast “One is Enough,” an NKR podcast. You can find both podcast wherever you listen to podcasts!

Links:

Mobile Network 24
Let’s Talk Transplant Website
Let’s Talk Transplant on Facebook
One is Enough Podcast
Donor Diaries Website
Donor Diaries on Facebook
Connect with Laurie Lee
GiftWorks

Donor Diaries Website
Donor Diaries on Facebook

Send us a text

Join us as we sit down with Marilyn Day, a founding member of Transplant Village and a two-time kidney recipient who has dedicated over a decade to guiding others through the transplant journey.

In this episode, Marilyn shares how her personal story highlights the transformative power of sharing your journey to inspire action and find living donors within your social network. Discover how platforms like Facebook and Instagram have become invaluable tools for connecting patients with potential donors—reuniting people with long-lost connections, activating supportive family members who simply didn’t know, and even forging bonds with complete strangers.

Marilyn’s insights remind us that people can’t help if they don’t know how. She offers practical advice on building a supportive community and tapping into your network to create life-changing opportunities. Don’t miss this inspiring conversation about the power of hope, connection, and the courage to ask for help.

Links:
Donor Diaries Website
Donor Diaries on Facebook
Connect with Laurie Lee
Transplant Village
Northwestern Donor Champion Program
Living Kidney Donors Network
GiftWorks
Marilyn’s Faith Story
The Big Ask the Big Give (NKF)
Johns Hopkins Donor Champion Program
Organ Transplant Support
Tools for Patients at NKR Transplant Centers

Donor Diaries Website
Donor Diaries on Facebook