Recipient Stories

Recipient Stories

Organ, eye and tissue donations can have a lasting impact on transplant recipients and their loved ones. Hear real-life stories from individuals who have received lifesaving and life-enhancing transplants, thanks to the generosity of donors and their families.

Eric Gathers and Alex Brown

Alex Brown

Alex Brown needed a transplant after both his kidneys were severely damaged in a car wreck. His best friend, Eric Gathers, stepped up to be tested.

After confirming they were a match, Alex received a lifesaving gift from his best friend.

I.C. Collins

I.C. Collins

While undergoing aggressive vision treatment for a bacterial eye infection, I.C. also learned his heart was failing.

Ultimately, a corneal transplant restored his vision, and soon after, a heart transplant saved his life.

Jimmy Cansler, heart recipient

Jimmy Cansler

Jimmy Cansler developed a cough in summer 2020 and assumed he had contracted COVID-19. After his symptoms worsened significantly, he soon learned he would need a heart transplant.

“I’m very thankful for the family that made the sacrifice to save me,” Jimmy said. “I’m grateful, and I want them to know that.”

Read about donor families and the impact their loved ones made, or tell us about your own personal experience with organ donation.