Two people discussing living donor organ donation at UPMC

Living Donor Champions: A Journey You Don't Make Alone

For someone in need of a liver or kidney transplant, every moment spent on the waiting list is critical. A living-donor transplant may be the life-saving solution to getting him or her off of the waiting list and back to being healthy.

However, asking someone to become a living donor is a challenge and can be an overwhelming task. With the help of a living donor Champion, finding a donor becomes more manageable.

The Role of a Living Donor Champion

A Champion may be a friend, family member, co-worker, or anyone else who is willing to provide emotional support for someone on the transplant waiting list. They can help by taking the lead in finding and securing a suitable living donor.

A Champion's role includes:

  • Finding a live donor in a timely fashion
  • Taking the responsibility of identifying a donor away from the person, allowing him or her to focus on their health
  • Connecting and talking with as many people as possible so that an appropriate match can be found
  • Offering support and inspiration through this difficult journey

Meet Living Donor Champions

Read about Living Donor Champions who have used social media to find living donors for their loved ones.

Join the Conversations About Living Donor Transplants

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Learn More About Living Donor Champions on the UPMC Health Beat Blog