Employee Spotlight – Midwest Transplant Network

MTN Staff Spotlight: Drew Toler, Director of Family Services, reflects on career & future

December 19, 2024/in

MTN Staff Spotlight: Drew Toler, Director of Family Services, reflects on career & future

When Drew Toler was taking a class in graduate school 36 years ago, he didn’t know his career would be influenced by a discussion between a student and professor. Once he recalled the conversation, everything clicked and the foundation for a life-changing and inspirational career began.

In 2019, Drew joined Midwest Transplant Network as a Family Services Coordinator, but his relationship with MTN started much earlier. He was a chaplain at Children’s Mercy Kansas City when MTN wanted to offer training for chaplains to become designated requesters for families of children who had passed away and had the opportunity to give gifts through tissue donation.

“I was one of the first in the group of chaplains trained to be a designated tissue requester, and that’s how I was introduced to the MTN mission,” he said. A few years later, he became the liaison between MTN and Children’s Mercy.

In time, Drew had an opportunity to return to his home state of Arkansas to provide leadership to start a family services department at ARORA, an organ procurement organization. He stayed connected to people at MTN.

Today, Drew leads MTN’s Family Services department and provides resources and support to staff who meet families at the worst time of their lives.

“The Family Services team is a group of people who are incredibly passionate, compassionate and brave, and they join with families and support them through a significant and unanticipated loss that they’re going through. And, at the same time, empower the families with a decision to make a difference, not only in the life of another person through organ transplantation, but also to make a difference in how they will journey through their grief experience,” he explained.

Drew noted that organ donation does not take away a person’s grief. “It allows a person to create meaning and hope out of their loss. Donor hero families can transition with other families of donor heroes. The MTN Family Services donor family team continues that journey with the family by giving them effective communication about how a recipient’s outcomes are and supporting them through various events that we do to celebrate their donor family member. Sometimes a bereaved spouse or a bereaved parent may call the donor family group and just need a listening ear. This group continues the journey with them for as long as a family needs it.”

How it started
In 1988, Drew was in a biomedical ethics class in graduate school. The class spent the semester talking about topics and ethical dilemmas facing the country. At the end of the semester, a student raised his hand and asked the professor, “What do you think is the most pressing ethical dilemma this country faces?”

Without missing a beat, the professor said, “Perfectly good organs that should go to help save the lives of those on the transplant waiting list.”

And though Drew heard that, it didn’t really make an impact until later when he was working as a chaplain in a pediatric intensive care unit and a family was told that their child was declared brain dead.

“I met with the organ procurement coordinator for that local OPO in Alabama, and as they talked to this family about how the gifts that their child could give to save the life of another child, that conversation from years earlier in that ethics class just drove home the importance of what the professor said that day and this type of work.”

Drew wasn’t looking to work for an organ procurement organization, yet he was struck with how families at the time of such devastating news are looking for a way to make something meaningful and hopeful to come out of that.

“I could see, as the organ procurement coordinator was talking to the family, that was what the family needed,” he said. “The family immediately grabbed onto what the coordinator said and responded that they needed to do this. They said it would help their family as well, knowing that they were sparing another family from going through a similar loss.”

That’s when everything came together for Drew, and he understood how impactful this role is and what organ procurement organizations do.

A rewarding career
Reflecting on his career, Drew is inspired by the decisions families make during a significant tragedy happening in their life. “Somehow, they are able to think about and consider the needs of others at that time,” he said.

“The stories my team share about families and their interactions with them continues to be very inspiring to me and makes me incredibly grateful for the impact that the Family Services department can make in the lives of other people at the most difficult time in their lives.”

MTN President & CEO Jan Finn, RN, MSN, has high regard for his work.

“Drew has provided MTN with a stable and supportive environment for the Family Services team to work and thrive in for several years,” she said. “We were grateful when Drew came to us from Arkansas and knew he would make a positive impact immediately. We didn’t realize the depth completely until we heard how he approached every situation to make it better for everyone.”

Best practices
Drew is a lifelong learner. “The biggest thing that I’ve had to learn and put into practice is being a non-anxious presence, being able to walk into a room where a family is completely grief stricken, and the emotional climate can be intense. It might be sad, it might be anger, but to be able to go into that and be a non-anxious presence means being able to bring the emotional climate of that room to a place where families can have a thoughtful discussion about what organ donation can mean.”

The team benefits from discussions about being a non-anxious presence and how they can lead conversations in a very thoughtful and empowering way with donor families.

Carol Benson, RN, MSM, Director of Hospital Services at MTN, said Drew’s work has had a positive impact on MTN. “He has been a mentor to so many, including me. I always appreciate his curiosity and ability to really listen and reflect on what you are saying.”

A new chapter
Drew will retire from MTN Dec. 31, 2024. Retirement brings him to a place where he will have time for hobbies and much more. He has a four-generation family cabin that was once a small farm.

“I’ve not been able to go there as frequently as I like. I plan to go there, and I enjoy writing and gardening. I like to ride my horses in the back country out west or at my place in Arkansas. I like to fly fish and tie flies. I will travel and see family and friends who live across the country.

“There are a lot of good memories I have had over the years, lots of good relationships and friendships I know that will outlive my time at MTN,” he said.

Lessons from Drew

“Drew has taught us so much,” said Sarah Oland, LMSW, Chief Stakeholder Engagement Officer.

“We have learned from Drew how important it is to be curious…when we want to know more, we listen to understand and that makes us more a supportive presence for others. Drew is a role model for this with his team and colleagues, and we in turn, offer that same support to our donor families. He has taught us the importance of being brave in the face of grief and all the intense emotions that come with that. Our staff face challenges on the path to donation and he helps us to face those challenges, feel confident in our abilities to be successful, and to leave everyone a little bit better than we found them.”

Please join us in wishing Drew a happy retirement.

BRA Day: MTN’s Lisa Cummins’ Story

October 16, 2024/in

/by Joyce Allard

Lisa Cummins is a Quality Assurance Coordinator at Midwest Transplant Network.

Lisa Cummins works at MTN as a Quality Assurance Coordinator. She is also a two-time tissue recipient.

A closer look at how cancer and breast reconstruction changed the life of Lisa Cummins

In recognition of Breast Reconstruction Awareness (BRA) Day, MTN Quality Assurance Coordinator II Lisa Cummins, ASQ-CQIA, spoke about her journey with breast reconstruction.

Cancer would change life for Lisa Cummins not once, but three times. Little did she know how her cancer treatment and recovery would change the lives of countless others since her initial surgery in 2001.

Lisa’s first fight with cancer was against a rare form of cancer in her uterus. Her treatment included a hysterectomy and five rounds of chemo. She was excited to celebrate being cancer-free at the five-year mark of her recovery in 2006, but doctors found that she had breast cancer. This unexpected news brought the diagnosis of an early stage of ductal carcinoma in situ (DCIS). Lisa battled breast cancer with intense radiation treatment and surgery for breast reconstruction with LifeCell tissue she received.

“At my five-year anniversary appointment for breast cancer — the golden mark where cancer patients can consider themselves true survivors — they found a second breast cancer,” Lisa said. It was 2011 and her doctors confirmed the cancer had returned in the same breast. It was a more aggressive cancer, and surgeons gave Lisa the option of a mastectomy.

“I did not want to go through this again and had the double mastectomy,” she said. Lisa underwent breast reconstruction, becoming a donor tissue recipient for the second time. The entire reconstruction process took 18 months. Today, Lisa proudly celebrates 12-, 17-, and 22-year milestones of being cancer-free.

Giving Back

Lisa is enthusiastic about sharing her story and is not shy about talking to others. She tells her story at hospitals in the Kansas City metro, at Midwest Transplant Network’s Donate Life Legacy Walk, at conferences and live events to help others with their breast cancer journeys, all to support the lifesaving impact of tissue donation.

“I was never able to write to the donor family after either reconstruction,” she said. “This is one reason I give back to others by sharing my story. And tissue donor families don’t get the feedback that they save lives with tissue donation.”

“During a Royals game, I talked to a delightful man in our group who is on a heart transplant waiting list,” Lisa said. “I told him about my experience, and we really connected. The man

sitting in front of us was the recipient of a liver transplant and is also a volunteer for Midwest Transplant Network.”

Lisa’s story and the work of MTN is also shared by others in her circle. Her boyfriend, Kevin, was wearing a green ribbon at a work event where Sluggerrr, the Royals’ mascot, noticed the ribbon and asked about it. “Kevin explained that the green ribbon is a badge of honor, a symbol of giving hope and sharing life through organ, eye and tissue donation,” Lisa said.

When her son was six years old, his favorite TV series focused on police, firefighters, paramedics and ordinary people as they responded to real 911 emergency phone calls. During one episode he looked at her and said, “Do you know what I want to be when I grow up? I want to be an organ donor.”

His comments warmed her heart and once her children had their learner’s permit to drive, they checked the box to become organ donors.

What are the important things Lisa wants people to know and take seriously? “Do not skip appointments with your doctors,” she said. “When you become a registered organ donor, you need to talk to your family about this decision.”

With a sparkle in her eyes, Lisa added one more thing to the list. “I’ve found the best way to deal with any type of news from your doctor is to dress up for the appointment. Dressing up makes you feel great and makes it easier to deal with any type of news from your physician.”

MTN is her heart

As a Quality Assurance Coordinator Lisa knows she has an impact on donor heroes. “My job follows the recovery of tissue; obtaining all medical records needed current and past, and ensuring that all the I’s are dotted and T’s are crossed.”

Lisa has worked at MTN for 42 years. She started as a Receptionist and transitioned to different roles before working in Quality Assurance.

“I am grateful for MTN’s benefits,” Lisa said. “MTN paid for all my education.” She attended Johnson County Community College and earned an Associate of Arts degree in liberal arts graduating in 2005. She completed online classes at Northcentral University in Prescott Valley, Arizona, graduating magna cum laude with a Bachelor of Business Administration specializing in management. Lisa’s graduation date was extra special as it was the same date as her 30-year anniversary at MTN on Nov. 8, 2012.

Lisa is passionate about her work at MTN. Sharing a megawatt smile she said, “MTN is my heart and who I am.”

MTN Staff Spotlight – Andrea Starks

September 10, 2024/in

/by Mitch Weber

Andrea Starks is a Quality Assurance Coordinator at Midwest Transplant Network (MTN).

Meet Andrea Starks

She began at MTN as a temporary worker in March of 2007, with no prior clinical experience or knowledge of organ and tissue recovery, but quickly fell in love with the close-knit, family-like atmosphere. Now a full-time member, Andrea’s daily work involves gathering and sharing information to support healthy tissue donation and transplantation. She humorously likens her role to that of a sleuth, juggling many tasks.

Andrea’s time at MTN has profoundly changed her, making her more aware of the fragility of life and the importance of cherishing moments with loved ones. As a bone graft recipient herself, Andrea deeply values organ donation, as it gave her a second chance at life through donation.

Why did you want to work at MTN?

I lucked into MTN. My friend used to work here and asked if I could temp for about 12 weeks while someone was on medical leave…and I never left! I was a blank slate when I started; no clinical background and no organ/tissue recovery or transplant knowledge. I just knew I liked the close family feel/ mom and pop culture. I never guessed in a million years MTN would ask me to stay.

What is a day like for a Quality Assurance Coordinator at Midwest Transplant Network?

Lots of pokers in lots of fires! We spend all day collecting and sharing information to support healthy tissue donation and transplant. Lol–I never thought I’d be a sleuth in this lifetime but here I am being okay-ish at it!

Tell me about your experience at MTN and how it’s changed you.

There are good and bad traits I’ve picked up over the years: I’m more aware of death and how it sometimes happens confusingly fast so I definitely worry more. I’m paranoid my asthma is going to take me out at any moment! I also love harder and appreciate the act of giving and getting time with family and friends way more than anything else.

How do you live the MTN mission?

I love the idea of treating everyone with dignity and respect anyway. We don’t know anyone’s story until we are given those privileges. There are heroes among us everywhere!

What does organ donation mean to you?

I am a bone graft recipient who would have died without my donor’s gift. I was in a car accident in 2001. My face hit the door frame when I was thrown out of the car and fractured my 2 front teeth. The hairline fracture was missed when I was getting veneers. 10 years later, the infection broke through my gum wall. This infection had compromised the bone housing my front teeth—so, I got a bone graft to hold my implants. I get to live this wonderful life and be all the things to all my people because of this second chance. It means everything.

How do you spend your weekends?

Usually on the go! We have a 13-year-old son who plays soccer and has a small mowing business he takes very seriously. We also have a 12-year-old daughter who has a slight Target addiction and plays on 2 competitive soccer teams…lots of practice, lots of games! We also like to go to our parents’ too so kids can see their grands.

What’s the last adventure or vacation you’ve been on?

While in Florida, we took a pontoon out to Crab Island and spent the day paddle boarding and relaxing on a floating water pad. AND fighting jellyfish! They were everywhere and we all got stung! It was brutal and exciting!!

If you could spend your entire paycheck on something that’s not a bill, what would it be?

I’ve gotten sucked into the time warp that is Hobby Lobby too many times to not be embarrassed. I imagine endless possibilities of necessary items I could toss my whole paycheck at if bills weren’t chasing after me!

MTN Staff Spotlight – Ashley Woodin

August 14, 2024/in

/by Midwest Transplant Network

Ashley Woodin is a Laboratory Support Coordinator with Midwest Transplant Network since 2016.

August is National Multiethnic Donor Awareness Month, a collaborative initiative to save and improve the quality of life of diverse communities by creating a positive culture for organ, eye and tissue donation.

Midwest Transplant Network will recognize and support National Multiethnic Donor Awareness Month with original content featuring voices who represent diversity and the mission to give hope and share life. We hope you enjoy the perspectives of our friends!

Meet Ashley Woodin

Ashley Woodin is a Laboratory Support Coordinator and joined Midwest Transplant Network in October 2016 – one day after her birthday. She is a mom, a cyclist and enjoys new experiences. On any given day at MTN, you’ll see Ashley on her way to the outpatient lab, full of energy and always with a smile to help care for a person who is waiting for a transplant and needs a lab test.

What’s your career experience in health care?

Before I worked at MTN, I worked at North Kansas City Hospital as a cardiology technician. I saved two lives by noticing heart rhythm patterns from patient Holter monitors.

Where’d you go to college?

I have a Bachelor of Arts in biology and a master’s in healthcare administration, both from Park University.

Who is the first person you met in college? Are you still friends?

Serena Franklin. We’ve been friends for 15 years. She’s my best friend, and she works at MTN. She’s worked here for five years. When we’re at work, we are focused on work, but we are best friends.

You’ve been invited to career day at a middle school. How would you explain your job to the students?

Organ transplantation is like giving someone a special gift – an organ, like a heart or kidney – that helps their body work better. Donation is when someone decides to give their organs after they pass away to help others live longer and healthier lives. It’s a bit like being a superhero by saving lives even after you’re gone. Midwest Transplant Network is like a group of real-life heroes. We work to make sure organs from generous donors get safely to people who need them. It’s like a team of helpers ensuring that the gift of life reaches those who need it most.

How has working in this field influenced your perspective? What does organ donation mean to you?

As a Laboratory Support Coordinator, I support the transplant process and impact patient care and organ matching. My responsibilities include assisting with phlebotomy, managing lab supplies, and ensuring timely and accurate blood draws, collaborating with hospital coordinators, communicating with lab staff for urgent testing needs and more.

Working in this field has given me a unique perspective on the critical need for organ donations, the impact on recipients’ lives, and challenges within the healthcare system. It also gives insight into ethical considerations like equitable organ allocation, consent, and the balance between saving lives and respecting donor wishes. Also, the emotional aspect of organ donation. It’s a process that involves both the joy of saving lives and the grief associated with loss, creating a complex mix of emotions for both healthcare professionals and families involved.

Organ donation is a powerful means of giving someone a second chance at life. It’s a sense of fulfillment and purpose knowing that my work contributes to saving lives and improving the well-being of others.

August is National Multiethnic Donor Awareness Month. How would you use your experience as a Black woman working in organ donation to encourage people from diverse racial and ethnic communities to learn more and register as donors?

There is mistrust and a history of mistrust in healthcare among multiethnic communities, and I understand. I volunteered at MTN’s booth for Juneteenth at 18th & Vine to share information about organ donation. I had to ask myself “Why should they trust me?” while explaining what I know to be true about organ donation and sharing facts.

Also, knowing what I know…people are dying who look like me. Children who look like my kids are dying, so if we don’t step up and register to be an organ donor, we’re never going to give hope to someone else or give hope to another person in need. It’s important to be informed and educated about organ donation, to learn and understand, and trust your heart.

What’s your connection, or experience, with patients who come to MTN for tests? Can you share a story to explain?

I hear their stories, their struggles, trials and tribulations on their journey. They just want someone to listen. I’ve gotten close to a patient over the years, and I’ve learned about her life. She’s an author and a three-time kidney recipient.

Some of the patients have the most positive outlook, even though they’re waiting for a transplant and might not be doing so well. Or they received a transplant and now they’re much better and they’re still positive. For example, I have a patient who is doing much better after a kidney transplant. He tells me stories about going fishing with his grandkids and living his life.

And there are some patients who ask for me when they come in for tests, and that’s nice.

I like working on behalf of the patients, communicating with coordinators and doctors. I make sure I do my job well and completely because it means someone gets a second chance, and it means that someone needs me to be an advocate for them.

You’re a cyclist. What piqued your interest in cycling?

The freedom of movement, the joy of exploring new places, the physical benefits, and the sense of camaraderie within the cycling community. When you ride, you can let your mind go to a different place.

What’s been your longest ride distance?

The longest ride was 73 miles, the Bacon Ride in Iowa. It was a summer ride with stops along the way with music.

Most memorable ride – good or bad?

It was a 50-mile ride from Prairie Village, Kansas, to Lee’s Summit, Raytown and Independence in Missouri, then back to Prairie Village. I didn’t eat well. My legs cramped so bad, I stopped in Kansas City and got a ride back to my car. That was a bad bike ride.

What’s your advice for anyone who might want to try cycling?

My advice to newcomers is to start gradually, get the right equipment, and get fitted for a bike for your height and length of your legs. When you’re riding, find enjoyment in the process rather than being focused only on performance. And, pickle juice helps with leg cramps.

What’s the best concert you’ve been to?

Rob Zombie. It was theatrical and unexpected to me.

What songs are you listening to?

I like a mixture of genres of music. I’m listening to Billie Holiday, Chris Stapleton, John Coltrane and Elvis Presley. I’m not a music snob.

It’s summer. Do you have a favorite summer memory?

Taking my kids on trips over the years. I’ve taken my kids to lots of places, and we’ve been to Disney a few times. This summer, my daughter turned 16, and that’s exciting!

If you could spend your entire paycheck on something that’s not a bill, what would it be?

I’d travel! I’d go on a wine and food tour in Europe and take my mom with me.

Jan Finn holding AOPO Lifetime Achievement Award

MTN Spotlight: What a Week for MTN and AOPO!

June 28, 2024/in

/by Midwest Transplant Network

Wow! At the Annual Meeting of the Association of Organ Procurement Organizations (AOPO), held June 24-26 in San Antonio, Texas, two executive leaders of Midwest Transplant Network achieved new levels in their careers.

Lifetime Achievement Award

AOPO presented the 2024 Lifetime Achievement Award to Jan Finn, RN, MSN, President and Chief Executive Officer, MTN. The award is given to individuals who have made significant, enduring contributions to the organ procurement community and have supported AOPO’s mission to save and heal lives through organ, eye and tissue donation.

Finn began her career as a registered nurse in Joplin, Missouri, in a critical care environment. She joined MTN in 1990 to pursue a career in organ donation. In her 34-year career as a leader in the OPO community, she’s been instrumental in increasing organ donation through her commitment to collaboration, data-driven strategies and continuous improvement.

“It doesn’t matter if you’ve done this for 34 years or three or four, when you see a donor family and recipients, we know that this work is incredibly important. I’m very proud to be part of this work,” said Finn upon receiving the award.

Finn has served in roles such as president of AOPO and the North American Transplant Coordinators Organization (NATCO), member of the board of directors of Organ Procurement and Transplantation Network (OPTN), and United Network of Organ Sharing (UNOS) Advisory Committee on Organ Transplantation. She is the chair of the Donation Board of Trustees of MTF Biologics, a member of the Missouri Governor’s Organ Donation Advisory Committee and is the immediate past chair for the Organ Donation and Transplantation Alliance. Locally, Finn serves on the board of Friendship Inn of Kansas City and the Gift of Life Foundation.

“Jan’s visionary leadership and unwavering dedication to AOPO and the OPO community have left an indelible mark. Her willingness to make difficult decisions and lead during turbulent times have strengthened both AOPO and the entire donation and transplantation system. She is truly deserving of this Lifetime Achievement Award,” said Steve Miller, CEO, AOPO.

AOPO 2024-2025 Board Leadership

AOPO announced Terry Shambles, FACHE, Treasurer and Chief Financial Officer, Midwest Transplant Network, will serve as Secretary/Treasurer of the 2024-2025 Board of Directors. Shambles was nominated to serve in early spring and elections were held among members. His term officially began at the AOPO annual meeting.

“I am honored to serve as the AOPO Secretary/Treasurer and work together with the dedicated professionals focused on saving and improving lives through organ, eye and tissue donation,” said Shambles.

“It’s a significant achievement to serve on the AOPO Board of Directors. I know the dedication and professionalism that Terry brings to Midwest Transplant Network as a leader, and I’m confident he’ll do the same for AOPO,” said Finn.

Shambles has more than 25 years of experience in executive leadership roles in hospitals and organ procurement organizations. He has a bachelor’s degree in business administration from University of Oklahoma and is a Fellow of the American College of Healthcare Executives.

Congratulations, Jan and Terry!

Jan Finn, RN, MSN, President and Chief Executive Officer, Midwest Transplant Network, received a Lifetime Achievement Award from the Association of Organ Procurement Organizations.

Terry Shambles, FACHE, Treasurer and Chief Financial Officer, Midwest Transplant Network, was elected to serve as Secretary/Treasurer of the 2024-2025 AOPO Board of Directors.

An Air Force pilot sitting in the cockpit of a military aircraft.

MTN Staff Spotlight – Kelly Timmermann

March 27, 2024/in

/by Midwest Transplant Network

Kelly Timmermann can fly. She’s a Corporate Pilot PIC I for Midwest Transplant Network. Her career began as an Air Force pilot and she retired as Lt. Col. Timmermann in late 2023.

March is Women’s History Month, designated by presidential proclamation in 1980. Now, Women’s History Month is an annual observance to highlight the achievements, contributions, influence and impact of women.

Midwest Transplant Network recognizes and celebrates the diversity of our staff. We appreciate sharing the stories of staff who represent different experiences that positively impact our culture and mission.

Kelly Timmermann, Corporate Pilot PIC I

Kelly Timmermann can fly. From the Air Force to Midwest Transplant Network, her career as a pilot has taken her around the world and across the country. In late 2023, Lt. Col. Timmermann retired from the Air Force after 23 years as a pilot, having experienced 13 deployments and 1,940 combat hours. She joined MTN in 2022 as a Corporate Pilot PIC I, responsible for transporting teams to cases in the mission of saving and enhancing lives through organ, eye and tissue donation.

In 50 words or less, explain your job in the Air Force like you’re talking to someone without a military background.

I began my Air Force journey as an intelligence analyst. After two years, I switched my career path to become a pilot. I primarily flew an air refueling airplane, the KC-135. But I also had the opportunity to fly distinguished passengers in the Gulfstream IV and Gulfstream V aircraft, with many leadership roles along the way.

What influence did female mentors, role models or colleagues have on your military service, education or life in general?

Most of my superiors, mentors and colleagues were men. I am incredibly grateful for the opportunities and leadership over the years. But you asked about women, and my very best friendships have been amazing women – family, Air Force friends, and high school friends. I’ve had a solid support network, sounding board, and sometimes a good kick in the pants (when warranted) from my ladies. Having someone invest in your success whole-heartedly is validating and empowering. I owe my success to those who believed in me.

March is Women’s History Month. What does it mean to you to have had a successful career as a pilot in the Air Force?

I am proud that I was able to choose a path in the Air Force that allowed me both professional and personal progression. Professionals of all backgrounds face difficult decisions to balance family and work-life. Women have the added consideration of bearing children. Choosing to be an Air Force pilot was one of the biggest decisions of my life. I knew it would mean frequent travel and moving, and I knew it was possible I would do it alone. It’s tough to meet people when you’re not in a place that’s home. I’m a little amazed and grateful that I was able to navigate a career, have a family and meet my goals as a pilot, but I did it!

What motivated you to become a pilot? What kept you motivated?

I didn’t consider a pilot career until I was in the Air Force. I knew it was a marketable skill and I was fascinated to find a professional path that would give me an office in an airplane! I’ve always been aware of long-term stability and choosing a job was another item for consideration. There is a huge need for pilots, and that equates to long-term stability. As for motivation, that’s the only way I know how to do things…to be motivated.

Where’d you train to become a pilot?

I trained for my private pilot’s license at Offutt Air Force Base in Nebraska. My Air Force Undergraduate Pilot training was at Laughlin Air Force Base in Texas.

What’s your advice to women who want to pursue aviation?

Make it happen. If you are willing to work for it, it is achievable!

If your career imitated a movie, which movie would it be?

I couldn’t find one about determination and persistence without a heartbreaking tragedy to overcome. Haha!

If you hadn’t become a pilot, what would you have done for your career?

I do not know! I narrowed it down to psychology and counseling but was also interested in the medical field. See? Varied interests make it tough to decide, so why not fly?

A mother and two children gather around a cake with a sparkling candle.

Kelly Timmermann and her children are smiling in excitement at a sparkling candle in the center of a small cake.

Now that you’ve retired from the Air Force, do you have a retirement bucket list? What’s one thing you’d share from your list?

My husband is still in the Air Force, so we will make a bucket list when it is his time to retire. However, the short-term benefit is I only have one job, instead of a second job with the Air Force Reserve, and I spend the extra time with my two awesome kiddos.

From your perspective, how does your role at Midwest Transplant Network impact organ donation and transplantation?

We give MTN the ability to have someone spend an hour of travel instead of four hours of travel at the beginning and the end of a 24-hour shift. This is essential! I feel directly connected to perpetuating this awesome mission because the airplane helps lower attrition. Additionally, being able to take a team to an OR and then bring them home cuts a lot of stress and work from logistics planning. I know our staff are appreciative when the airplane is available to relieve the burden of travel and we are happy to be part of the mission.

What’s the most surprising thing you’ve learned about organ donation?

I was not familiar with organ donation at all, except that you’re asked the question at the DMV about becoming an organ donor. Learning about the process has helped me to stress to my family and friends how important it is to make your decision known for organ donation. It makes a difference and alleviates family stress when the worst happens.

Where are you from?

Salisbury, Missouri.

It’s March Madness! You’re hosting a Women’s Final Four Championship party. What snacks are you serving?

I’m serving hot wings, guac and chips, pizza, and everybody brings a favorite. Sharing is caring!

Kelly Timmermann poses in front of a U.S. Air Force plane.

A woman wearing a black ball cap that reads Afghanistan Veteran.

Lt. Col. Kelly Timmermann retired from the U.S. Air Force after a 23-year career as a pilot.

Celebrating Black History Month: Rev. Isaac Ruffin

February 27, 2024/in

/by Midwest Transplant Network

Rev. Isaac Ruffin, a Family Services Coordinator II at Midwest Transplant Network, shares his perspective in honor of Black History Month.

For more than 19 years, the Rev. Isaac Ruffin, Family Services Coordinator II, has served Midwest Transplant Network (MTN) donor families with all of his heart and soul. He has a passion for walking alongside families who are experiencing an unexpected loss and offering comfort, lending a kind and listening ear, and sharing how donation can help extend their loved one’s legacy.

“For my generation, with all of the history we have seen, Black History Month is a celebration of the coming to fruition of a people,” shared Ruffin. “It is a time to be seen as equals and fulfill our dreams, hopes, aspirations and our true potential.”

He’s inspired by his grandfathers – one a pastor and the other a deacon. Through their ministry, they served congregations, raised large families and were role models of compassion and integrity.

While completing his Clinical Pastoral Education at Research Medical Center, Ruffin had the opportunity to work with MTN as a hospital chaplain in caring for several donor families. He was very aware of some of the cultural concerns about organ donation within the Black American community. “I want to serve others and build trust with underserved and diverse communities as a face within one of those cultures myself.”

He understands the impact donation can have on an individual, a family and a community as his brother received the gift of a transplant many, many years ago. His work with donor families has always been about giving back as a part of his personal ministry and for the gift his brother and their family received.

Known for his quiet, infinite readiness to serve others, Rev. Ruffin finds peace in creating memories of donor heroes with their families. Over his almost two decades of service, countless families have experienced the love he brings when supporting them in making the generous decision to donate life on their most difficult day. He has built many bridges of trust – one family at a time – significantly impacting and bettering our community. MTN is eternally grateful for Rev. Ruffin as his joyful presence has made the same profound difference in every one of us.

In recognition of Black History Month, Rev. Ruffin shares his favorite poem, “Still I Rise” by Maya Angelou.

MTN Staff Spotlight — Taylor Brookins

December 28, 2023/in

/by Midwest Transplant Network

Taylor Brookins

Midwest Transplant Network is a co-sponsor of the OneLegacy Donate Life Rose Parade® float, which will be featured in the 2024 Rose Parade®. The OneLegacy Donate Life float honors the memory of donor heroes from across the country, including Jayme Sue Louque of Olathe, Kansas, a 14-year-old organ, eye and tissue donor. The float features a floragraph portrait of Jayme Sue made of organic materials.

MTN chooses a staff member to travel with the donor family to the Rose Parade® and we want to take a moment to share the connection and invite you to watch the 2024 Rose Parade® on Jan. 1 at 8 a.m. PST/10 a.m. CST on ABC, NBC or Univision.

MTN Staff Spotlight…

Taylor Brookins, LCSW, Manager, Family Services

Taylor’s professional career as a medical social worker includes experience in hospice, in-patient palliative care, pediatric intensive care, and end-of-life care. She has a Master of Social Work from the University of Kansas and is a licensed clinical social worker. She joined Midwest Transplant Network in April 2021 as a Family Services Coordinator and transitioned to her current role in April 2022. Taylor will accompany Wendy and Bryan Louque and their family to the 2024 Rose Parade® in honor of their daughter, Jayme Sue, who became a donor hero at age 14.

Explain your job as if you’re talking to a stranger in Target.

“I’d explain what MTN does as a whole, and I’d say that I work with donor heroes and donor families, and we walk families through the process of organ and tissue transplantation.

“I usually explain that I used to go into different hospitals and worked directly with families, and now I’ve transitioned into a manager role, and I support Family Services Coordinators who work with donor families in the hospitals.”

Did you have any hesitation about accepting the opportunity to support the Louque family? Why or why not?

“No hesitation. I was really excited! It’s an honor and I’m thankful to get to go. I know how important this is for the family and it’s truly an honor.”

What’s your connection to the Louque family?

“The Louque family brought up donation very early on during Jayme Sue’s hospitalization. They’re a giving family. I was the Family Services Coordinator who met with the family and supported them during the donation process. That was November 2021. I couldn’t believe it’s been two years. It doesn’t feel like it.”

Tell us three things you’re looking forward to about the Rose Parade experience.

“Being around donor families at the Rose Parade; in the work we do, we see families on their worst day, and the parade is a way to see the families celebrating loved ones.

“I’m looking forward to going with the family to decorate and put the finishing touches on the parade float, and mostly, I’m looking forward to being able to honor Jayme Sue and her family.

“The Louques are a very deserving donor family. They’re so passionate about donation because they’ve experienced it on both sides. Wendy is a living donor, and Bryan is a two-time kidney recipient – one from his wife, and from a deceased donor.”

What’s your favorite holiday memory?

“We always celebrated Christmas at my great grandma’s house in Wyoming, and she lived in a log home that my family actually built. It’s the epitome of a Christmas home. My great grandma and uncle decorated it every Christmas. It was super cozy, and my brother and cousins…we always spent that time together.

“My favorite memory is that my uncle dressed up as Santa Claus – we didn’t know it was him at the time – and they made the sound of reindeer hooves on the roof, and we could see Santa’s legs dangling in the window as he was getting ready to go to the chimney. The next morning, when we woke up, Santa had taken pictures of him drinking milk and eating cookies and left us notes…just such a special memory to know the lengths my family took to make Christmas special for us.”

What’s your favorite holiday side dish and your least favorite – as in you will not eat it?

“My favorite is definitely mashed potatoes, but I do mix corn with my mashed potatoes, so it’s like a dual side dish. The side dish I won’t eat is stuffing. I just don’t like stuffing. I never have and I never eat it.”

What’s your most memorable gift from when you were a kid?

“Oh my gosh…I can’t remember a gift, but I remember the feeling of being at my great grandma’s with my cousins. My family would make so much food, and my great grandma would make iced sugar cookies that were my favorite. And there would be so many desserts and pies…that’s what I remember.”

What’s your motivation to keep doing the work you do every day?

“When you’re a medical social worker, your motivation is to make a difference and to help people. In the roles I’ve had, there is not a lot of hope. But at MTN, everyone who works here makes a difference every day and saves lives. We get to witness family selflessness, and we get to offer hope on someone’s worst day. This is the best place to work and it’s an honor to do what we do.”

Is there anything you’d like to share that could offer a different perspective about organ donation?

“Something that I learned from Drew [Toler] is that donation doesn’t take away a family’s grief, but it provides peace and comfort on their grief journey. When someone is able to become a donor hero, they live on through others, and that can be comforting to a family.”

Breast Reconstruction Awareness Story: Dawn Romano

October 18, 2023/in

/by Midwest Transplant Network

Dawn Romano, LCSW, LSCSW, MTN Family Services Coordinator III, opened up about her breast reconstruction experience for Breast Reconstruction Awareness (BRA) Day.

Dawn Romano, MTN staff member and breast cancer survivor

Dawn Romano is a clinical social worker who works in organ and tissue donation as a Family Services Coordinator for Midwest Transplant Network. In April 2008, Dawn’s life changed when she was diagnosed with an early stage of breast cancer. After undergoing a lumpectomy and 33 rounds of radiation, Dawn believed she was cancer-free and continued on with her life.

Things changed in the summer 2015 when Dawn felt a lump on her breast. Later, while getting a mammogram and biopsies, doctors confirmed that they had found two tumors. The cancer had returned, this time more aggressive. “Tears streamed from my eyes,” she recalled. “Reality had slapped me in the face.”

Through four grueling months of chemotherapy treatment, hair loss and discouragement, Dawn found strength from her faith, friends and family to continue working in organ and tissue donation. After undergoing a double mastectomy, Dawn and her surgeon discussed the possibility of breast reconstruction. “Thankfully, from my work at Midwest Transplant Network, I knew enough to ask my surgeon whether they would use any human tissue during my surgery. He told me yes,” she shared.

Thanks to the gift of skin from two donor heroes, Dawn finally began to heal. Her experience has also helped her develop a deeper appreciation of her work, especially donor families. “We often hear that tissue donation is life-enhancing, but for many of us, it has saved our lives in many ways,” Dawn shared. “This gift has made a huge impact on my life. To all donor families, please accept my deepest and most sincere thank you. You and your loved ones have made a difference in so many people’s lives. And for that, they will always be remembered by people like me.”

Story courtesy of MTF Biologics

Breast Reconstruction Awareness Story: Lisa Cummins

October 18, 2023/in

/by Midwest Transplant Network

In honor of Breast Reconstruction Awareness (BRA) Day, MTN Quality Assurance Coordinator II Lisa Cummins, ASQ-CQIA, spoke about her journey with breast reconstruction.

Lisa Cummins, MTN staff member and breast cancer survivor

For over 40 years, Lisa Cummins has worked in organ and tissue donation at Midwest Transplant Network. Her story begins in 2001, when she was first diagnosed with a rare type of cancer found in her uterus. Following a hysterectomy and five rounds of chemo, Lisa celebrated being cancer-free, but not for long.

“I had just hit my five-year mark when they found my first breast cancer,” she recalled. Diagnosed with an early stage of DCIS, or ductal carcinoma in situ, Lisa again underwent intense radiation treatment and another major surgery — this time using donated tissue. For the second time, Lisa believed she was cancer-free before receiving terrible news.

“At my five-year anniversary appointment — the golden mark where cancer patients can consider themselves true survivors — they found my second breast cancer,” she shared. Doctors confirmed that the cancer had returned in the same breast, this time more aggressive. Surgeons presented Lisa with the option of a mastectomy — a decision she would take one step further. “I decided that I did not want to go through it all over again, so I opted to have a double mastectomy,” she explained. Afterwards, Lisa underwent breast reconstruction, becoming a tissue recipient for the second time.

Today, Lisa celebrates being 11, 16 and 21 years cancer-free! Thanks to the gift from her donor, she returns to helping others in organ and tissue donation with a deeper appreciation for her life and work. She even uses her story at local hospitals, video conferences and live events to aid others through their breast cancer journeys and share the positive impact of donation. “There is not a day that goes by that I do not think of my donor families and am thankful for their selfless act of donation,” Lisa said, smiling. “I do not know who they are, so at every chance I get, I tell donor families ‘THANK YOU!’ Without their gift of life, I wouldn’t have been able to have reconstructive surgery. I can now say I am a survivor!”

Story courtesy of MTF Biologics