organ donation – Midwest Transplant Network

A Second Chance at 16: Titus’ Story of Hope

February 24, 2026/in

At 16, Titus Woods faced liver cancer not once, but twice.

At just 16 years old, Titus Woods has already shown what true courage looks like.

In March 2022, the high school junior and soccer player was diagnosed with liver cancer. What began as a typical season of school and sports quickly turned into doctor appointments, surgery and chemotherapy. Titus underwent surgery to remove part of his liver, followed by months of treatment.

Through it all, he kept his focus on getting back to the life he loved. Eventually, he returned to school, friends and the soccer field. For a while, it felt like things were moving forward.

Then, a year later, the cancer came back.

This time, Titus would need a liver transplant.

Leaning on Faith and Family

Titus’ parents, Tracey and Carmi, serve as hospital chaplains. Their work has long connected them to patients, families and the realities of organ donation. Even with that understanding, facing the transplant journey as parents brought a different perspective.

As Titus endured more treatments and the uncertainty of waiting for a transplant, the Woods family leaned deeply on their faith and the support of their community. Friends, extended family and their church surrounded them with encouragement and prayer.

Titus’ brother, Terrell, witnessed the physical and emotional toll up close. Watching someone you love suffer is never easy, but he also saw something else in Titus: resilience.

Despite the setbacks, Titus continued to push forward.

Another Unexpected Loss

In the midst of Titus’ medical battle, the family faced another devastating hardship. A house fire destroyed nearly everything they owned. It was yet another moment that could have broken their spirits.

Instead, they held tightly to gratitude for what remained and hope for what was ahead.

The Gift of Life

Two weeks after being listed for a transplant, Titus received the call. A donor family had made the selfless decision to give the gift of life.

The transplant was successful.

Today, Titus is growing stronger each day. He carries himself with new confidence and perspective. What he has endured has shaped him, but it has not defined him.

“It touches my heart, and I am so thankful to the donor family,” his mom, Tracey, shared. “His whole life has changed.”

A Voice for Hope

For Titus, courage means pushing through hardship with faith and hope. His journey has inspired not only his family but everyone who has followed his story.

Now, he uses his voice to advocate for organ donation, knowing firsthand the life-changing impact of one decision.

Because of a generous donor and their family, Titus has a future filled with possibility.

And because of stories like his, more families can see the power of saying yes to organ donation.

Watch Titus’ Story of Hope and learn more about organ donation at ShareLifeMidwest.com.

National Kidney Month is both a call to action and a message of hope

February 24, 2026/in

/by Mitch Weber

March is National Kidney Month, a time to focus on kidney health as a vital part of overall well-being. While we honor the generosity of kidney donors and celebrate recipients whose lives and health have been restored, this month challenges us to take proactive steps that help prevent kidney disease and keep more people off the transplant waiting list.

More than 35 million people in the U.S. are living with kidney disease, and over 102,000 individuals are currently waiting for a kidney transplant. In 2025, the generosity of 21,795 living and deceased kidney donors made 27,575 kidney transplants possible, an extraordinary reminder of the lifesaving power of donation.

National Kidney Month is both a call to action and a message of hope: prioritize kidney health through prevention and early detection, support those waiting for a transplant and consider registering as an organ, eye and tissue donor. Together, we can protect kidney health, reduce the need for transplantation and ensure lifesaving gifts are available when they are needed most.

The American Transplant Foundation offers guidance to help reduce the risk of kidney disease:

Get Screened: If you have diabetes, high blood pressure or a family history of kidney disease, regular kidney function tests can help detect problems early.

Eat a Kidney-Friendly Diet: Focus on fresh fruits, vegetables, whole grains and lean proteins while limiting processed foods, excessive salt and sugary drinks.

Stay Hydrated: Drinking enough water helps your kidneys function properly and flush out toxins.

Control Blood Sugar & Blood Pressure: Keeping these levels in check is essential for reducing the risk of kidney disease.

Avoid Excessive NSAIDs: Overuse of painkillers like ibuprofen and naproxen can damage the kidneys over time.

Maintain a Healthy Lifestyle: Exercising regularly, avoiding smoking, and managing stress can all contribute to better kidney health.

Make Time for Sleep: Aim to get 7 to 8 hours of sleep per night.

Join the organ, eye and tissue donor registry, read donor and recipient stories, or learn more about donation by visiting ShareLifeMidwest.com.

Midwest Transplant Network Kidney Donor/Recipient Stories

Personal stories help us understand the profound impact of organ, eye and tissue donation on health and wellbeing.

A Journey of Living Donation – Joey and Audrey Sughroue – Joey and Audrey Sughroue met when Joey learned he had a genetic kidney disease. Audrey hoped to be a match for Joey and donate her kidney, but she wasn’t. Eventually, they participated in a paired kidney exchange, a life-changing experience for both of them.

A Story of Hope – Jason Talk – Jason Talk learned he was in end-stage renal failure when he went to the hospital with swollen legs. He started dialysis soon after that. Years later, Jason received news that he was a transplant candidate, and shortly after being placed on the waitlist, he received the call that changed his life.

Resilience and Faith – Korbin Staten’s Journey – As a teenager, Korbin Staten discovered he had kidney disease. Six years later, he received a kidney transplant; unfortunately, the transplanted kidney faced two types of rejection. Korbin went back on dialysis but never lost resilience or faith. He was able to navigate adversity and eventually received a second transplant. With the support of his wife and medical team, Korbin has returned to full health.

Resources to explore if you’d like to join the National Kidney Registry or become a living donor:

How to Donate a Kidney

Steps to Become a Living Kidney Donor

Viola’s Final Gift: Proving It’s Never Too Late to Save a Life

January 23, 2026/in

/by Mitch Weber

A nurse, community leader and lifelong caregiver, Viola believed even one more act of kindness could matter. When she and her husband, Bob, renewed their driver’s licenses, they chose to be registered organ donors.

Viola Remington was known for her sense of humor and the sparkle in her eyes. She and her husband, Bob, shared a life full of playful banter and jokes. She loved her career as a nurse and the opportunity to help others. Viola was a leader at her church and in the community.

When Bob and Viola last renewed their driver’s licenses, they checked the box to become registered organ donors. Viola was 87 and Bob was 86. Being a registered organ donor was important to Viola because it meant she would have one last opportunity to help someone. They had no idea what an impact their decision would have to give hope to another family.

Viola became Midwest Transplant Network’s oldest donor hero when she passed at age 91. She saved a man’s life with the gift of her liver. “You hear people say they are too old to be an organ donor,” said Bob. “Viola would want you to know you are never too old or it’s never too late to make a difference in someone’s life.”

Watch Viola’s Story of Hope and learn more about organ donation at ShareLifeMidwest.com.

MTN Spotlight: Advocacy and a gift to build awareness

January 15, 2026/in

/by Midwest Transplant Network

MTN Spotlight: Advocacy and a gift to build awareness

Advocacy for organ, eye and tissue donation is demonstrated in as many ways as there are people who’ve received the gift of donation.

Andrew Widman

Andrew Widman is a heart transplant recipient who openly shares his personal journey. He was born with a rare congenital heart defect and had open heart surgery as a child. He grew up doing well, but as an adult, his heart began to fail. Eventually, he needed a transplant. Time went by. After a doctor’s appointment, he was too sick to go home and was admitted to Saint Luke’s Hospital in Kansas City. It was there that he waited. In March 2017, his mobile phone rang. A donor hero’s heart matched his needs, and Andrew became Saint Luke’s 745th heart recipient.

Soon after, Andrew became a volunteer Ambassador for Midwest Transplant Network to advocate for donation and be a voice in the community. In January 2024, he became a member of MTN’s Governing Board.

Andrew’s advocacy is also shown through a generous grant to Midwest Transplant Network through an award from his employer.

A grant for growth
Andrew Widman, CLF®, is a Senior Financial Representative with Principal Financial Network.

Principal® Foundation, the philanthropic arm of Principal Financial Group®, recognized more than a dozen nonprofit organizations from across the country through a new program, the 2025 Principal® Financial Network Community Service Awards.

The awards celebrate 15 members of Principal Financial Network who “demonstrate exceptional dedication to community service through long-term volunteerism and commitment to nonprofit organizations in their communities.” Each award includes a charitable contribution to a nonprofit organization chosen by the recipient.

Andrew is a Builder Award honoree, presented to “dedicated volunteers helping drive measurable growth within organizations.” Midwest Transplant Network will receive a $15,000 grant.

Of course, we had a conversation to learn more about the grant and why Andrew chose MTN to receive the grant.

What inspired you to apply for the grant award?
Anytime there is an opportunity to raise money for a cause that is very important to me, I jump at the chance. When I found out that Principal® Foundation was offering this large grant, I applied immediately.

What inspired you to choose MTN as the beneficiary?
Midwest Transplant Network does amazing work, both on the recipient’s and donor’s side. MTN matched me with my life-saving heart, and I am grateful. I am also in awe of how caring and respectful MTN is in taking care of the donor families.

How long have you served on the board for Midwest Transplant Network? How long have you been an Ambassador?
I have served on the governing board for two years, and I’ve been an Ambassador for almost nine years.

From your perspective as a transplant recipient and an advocate for donation, what community outreach is most meaningful to you?
The reason I became an Ambassador is to tell my story. My favorite thing to do post-transplant is to meet and speak to donor families. I am able to show them what donation looks like on the recipient side, thank them for being heroes and form special bonds with them over related experiences.

What’s one thing you’d like people to understand about organ, eye and tissue donation?
I want everyone to know that organ, eye and tissue donation is the greatest gift you can give to someone. One person can save up to eight lives with organ donation and can improve the lives of over 75 people with eye and tissue donation.

MTN is humbled by the generosity of donation advocates in all ways they choose to give of their time, personal stories or gifts. Thank you, Andrew Widman, for your sincere support of organ, eye and tissue donation.

Note: Monetary donations given to Midwest Transplant Network are used to support public education for organ, eye and tissue donation, as well as donor family services. Donated funds help ensure that people have access to information to make decisions about organ, eye and tissue donation.

A man gives high fives to people in line at an event.

Andrew Widman, MTN Ambassador and Governing Board Member, gives high fives to people at an annual symposium.

A man and two women at a decorated table at a special event.

Andrew Widman, MTN Ambassador and Governing Board Member, hands out wrapped cookies at a symposium hosted by MTN.

Jake Reed’s Story of Hope | A Life of Service That Continues Through Donation

January 14, 2026/in

/by Mitch Weber

Officer Jake Reed’s legacy continues through the lives he saved, the family who honors him every day and the memories shared with his son, Charlie.

From the time he could talk, Jake Reed knew what he wanted to be. Becoming a police officer wasn’t just a goal, it was a calling he followed with focus and heart.

As a kid, Jake took part in youth police programs and went on ride-alongs whenever he could. Law enforcement officers knew him by name long before he ever wore a badge. That dedication carried him to Missouri Southern State University, where he earned a degree in criminal justice, met his wife Bayley and completed the police academy. In Joplin, Missouri, Officer Reed was living the life he worked so hard to build.

“He actually did what he wanted to do,” his father, Bob Reed, said. “He was living his dream.”

Jake was known as humble, helpful and deeply connected to his family. Those qualities defined both his career and the way he showed up for the people around him. At 27, Jake’s life was tragically taken in the line of duty, a loss his family continues to carry every day.

In the midst of their grief, Jake’s decision to register as an organ donor became a powerful extension of who he was. His family was able to spend meaningful time with him in his final days, time Bob describes as profoundly impactful. Through organ donation, Jake helped save lives, turning heartbreak into hope.

“It wasn’t shocking that he was an organ donor,” said Jake’s brother, Sam. “His job was helping people, so of course he was going to be an organ donor.”

Jake and Bayley share a son, Charlie, who will grow up knowing his father through the love, stories and memories passed down by family. Jake’s legacy also continues through a memorial scholarship established at Missouri Southern State University and the Officer Jake Reed donor fund, both created to honor his life and service.

Jake Reed’s story is one of purpose, courage and compassion. Even after his life was taken, his impact continues, reminding us how one decision can save lives and create hope for others.

Watch Jake’s Story of Hope and learn more about organ donation at ShareLifeMidwest.com.

MTN Tissue Services Team Wins ARTEMIS Award

January 9, 2026/in

/by Morgan Henderson

As winners of the ARTEMIS award, the Tissue Services team was celebrated for their excellence in pediatric tissue recovery, ensuring lifesaving grafts for the youngest patients.

Midwest Transplant Network (MTN) is proud to highlight an outstanding achievement within the organization. In November, the Tissue Services team was honored by LifeNet Health as winners of the notable ARTEMIS award (Pediatric Performance), part of the broader 2025 Partnership Excellence Awards. These awards celebrate the extraordinary individuals and teams whose expertise and dedication transform tissue donations into lifesaving and life-enhancing gifts.

MTN partners with LifeNet Health to recover and provide musculoskeletal, dermis and cardiovascular tissues for transplantation and surgical restoration. At the 2025 LifeNet Health GRNS Health Expo, the MTN Tissue Services team was recognized for their commitment to quality and dedication to treating every donor hero with dignity and respect. As winners of the ARTEMIS award, the Tissue Services team was celebrated for their excellence in pediatric tissue recovery, ensuring lifesaving grafts for the youngest patients.

Melissa Williams, MSW, CEBT, CTBS, Director of Tissue Services, describes how the award, “signifies excellence and commitment to providing pediatric heart valves for transplant patients. MTN is committed to always doing its very best to recover these critical tissues with precision.”

This prestigious award was accompanied by a traveling trophy belt that is currently featured in the MTN tissue lounge. As the recipients of MTN’s first trophy belt, Williams and the team were thrilled to receive the honor. “Pediatric tissue recoveries are complex and require a delicate hand. Knowing that we are doing an excellent job means so much.”

LifeNet Health is a global leader in regenerative medicine. The organization offers groundbreaking transplantation and cellular solutions that support healthcare providers and power scientific research.

John D’Abbracio, Senior Vice President of LifeNet Health Global Donor Services, states, “Our recovery professionals demonstrate extraordinary physical and emotional endurance to ensure every donor is treated with the utmost respect. Each recovery is performed with dignity, honoring the donor’s gift and extending their legacy of healing.”

Midwest Transplant Network applauds the Tissue Services team for their high standards and ongoing commitment to exceptional performance and care. This tremendous recognition is well deserved and spotlights the selfless dedication of the entire Tissue Services department.

A woman wearing glasses, smiling for a picture, wearing a T-shirt with a green ribbon in support of organ donation.

MTN DMV Appreciation Spotlight: Autumn Carroll – Asking the question can save a life

September 30, 2025/in

/by Midwest Transplant Network

September is DMV Appreciation Month and Midwest Transplant Network recognizes the important work that DMV offices have as a partner in organ, eye and tissue donation. Autumn Carroll is the Driver License Supervisor at the Pittsburg, Kansas license office and shares her story about what it’s like to ask, “Would you like to be an organ donor?”

“One of the most rewarding parts of my job is knowing that the work that is done every day has a direct impact on people’s lives, sometimes in ways that aren’t immediately seen,” said Autumn.

A woman wearing glasses, smiling for the camera.

Autumn Carroll, a license office supervisor, Pittsburg, Kansas.

“We issue IDs, ensure safety and compliance and help people navigate state regulations, but what really stands out is being part of the process where someone makes the choice to become an organ, eye or tissue donor,” she said. “When I ask that simple question, ‘Would you like to be listed as a donor?’ I know it could lead to someone receiving the gift of life.”

For Autumn, it’s incredibly meaningful to help people make informed, compassionate decisions. “We are part of a system that promotes community service, safety and generosity,” she said. “The most rewarding moments are when someone shares a personal story, maybe they’re a transplant recipient, or they lost someone who was a donor, and you realize just how powerful and far-reaching this work can be.”

The Pittsburg, Kansas license office provides basic information about being a registered organ donor.

“We let them know that by saying ‘yes,’ they are giving hope to thousands of Kansans and Americans waiting for a lifesaving transplant,” Autumn said. “It’s not about pressuring anyone, it’s about making sure they understand the option and can make their wishes known. That little heart symbol on the license can mean the world to someone someday. To me, it’s a privilege to be part of this process. I know that just by offering this information, I may be helping someone take the first step toward becoming a hero.”

When she learns about a donor recipient’s story, it is incredibly moving and meaningful. Hearing these stories reminds Autumn that what she does isn’t just about paperwork, it’s about real people, real families and real lives saved.

“It gives us pride and purpose, knowing that every time we ask someone if they want to register as a donor, it could lead to a story like that,” she said. “These stories also help inspire others. People are often more willing to say ‘yes’ to donation when they understand the incredible impact it can have. It’s a privilege to be a small part of that life-saving chain.”

The Pittsburg license office works closely with Midwest Transplant Network to increase awareness and provide education about organ donation. Printed brochures and flyers that explain the registry, first person authorization protections and what it means to be an organ donor are available at the service counters. The license office staff use virtual training modules provided by MTN. They also display posters or digital screens reminding visitors of the opportunity to become a donor. The staff wear lapel pins, lanyards and T-shirts to support the message. “These visual cues help spark conversations and encourage questions,” said Autumn.

“We receive ongoing training updates and informational materials from our partnering organizations so that staff feel confident discussing donation with applicants in a compassionate, non-coercive manner.”

Autumn said the DMV partnership with MTN ensures that accurate, respectful and timely information is always available when someone makes a decision. This approach helps people make an informed choice and, in many cases, they choose to become a donor.

“It reminds me that this isn’t just a government office, we’re a place where lifesaving decisions are made every day.”

Stephanie “Fanny” Meléndez – A Donor Hero’s Lasting Legacy

August 21, 2025/in

/by Mitch Weber

When complications from a brain tumor took her life, Stephanie Meléndez gave the ultimate gift. She donated her heart, lungs, liver, kidneys, bone and skin.

Speaking softly, Yahaira Meléndez describes her wife, Stephanie, as the brightest person she has ever known. She was beautiful inside and out with a love for singing and dancing. The couple first met while working at the Coliseo de Puerto Rico where Stephanie was a concierge and Yahaira was a bartender.

Choosing to Become a Donor

When Stephanie later moved to the United States, she noticed Yahaira’s driver’s license identified her as an organ donor. Inspired, Stephanie made the same decision. “I think I’m going to do that,” she told Yahaira, who encouraged her: “Go ahead and do it. It’s something good that you can do.”

Tragically, complications during surgery to remove a brain tumor ended Stephanie’s life far too soon. In keeping with her decision, Stephanie, affectionately called Fanny, became a donor hero. She gave the gifts of her heart, lungs, liver, kidneys, bone and skin, saving and healing the lives of many.

A Legacy of Love and Life

“Our family is sad because we don’t have Fanny with us,” Yahaira shared. “But we’re happy because with her help, there are a lot of people who will live, including the girl who has her heart. She was 14 when she got it and is 16 by now. Thanks to my wife, she’s going to be the woman she wants to be.”

Even in loss, Yahaira finds comfort in knowing her wife’s legacy lives on through others. “I’m just so proud of her. Even though she’s not here, I know she’s with us. I’m proud that her decision made so many people happy, because their families are going to be with them a little longer. Her spirit is going to be with us forever.”

A Journey of Living Donation – Joey & Audrey Sughroue

July 31, 2025/in

/by Mitch Weber

Audrey wasn’t a match for Joey, who needed a kidney due to Alport syndrome, but she still helped save his life.

A Perfect Match Through Paired Exchange

Audrey and Joey’s relationship blossomed even as Joey battled Alport syndrome, a genetic kidney disease. When his condition worsened, Audrey hoped to donate her kidney but wasn’t a direct match.

Through a paired exchange, Audrey gave to another recipient while Joey received a kidney from someone else. Their surgeries took place on the same day, May 2, 2023, marking a life-changing moment for them both.

Embracing Life After Transplant

Throughout this journey, the couple remained committed to living fully. They got engaged, married, bought a home and, most recently, celebrated the arrival of their greatest joy yet, their daughter Mila.

In the months that followed their surgeries, Audrey and Joey embraced the life they had hoped for. They took a long-dreamed-of trip to France, and around the one year anniversary of their transplants, they traveled to Thailand, grateful for the strength and freedom restored through living donation.

Now, Audrey and Joey look forward to a future filled with possibility, good health and new adventures as a family.

Learn more about organ donation at ShareLifeMidwest.com.

A group of men and women posed in front of a tall sculpture that represents the gift of life through organ donation.

MTN Spotlight: MU fraternity donates nearly $9k toward organ donation

July 9, 2025/in

/by Midwest Transplant Network

A group of men and women posed in front of a vertical sculpture.

Shea Walsh and his mom, Sarah Walsh, presented a donation to Midwest Transplant Network on behalf of Alpha Tau Omega, University of Missouri. The Walshes are pictured with leaders from Midwest Transplant Network.

Representing his college fraternity and donor hero father, Shea Walsh and his mother, Sarah, presented a generous donation of $8,924.90 to Midwest Transplant Network.

Shea is a sophomore at University of Missouri, a member of Alpha Tau Omega – Gamma Rho chapter, and serves as philanthropy chair. The fraternity’s signature fundraising event – a golf tournament and silent auction – had “amazing support” and the “turnout exceeded expectations.” Shea collaborated with Wyatt Oliver, signature event coordinator, on the fundraiser.

Support for a nonprofit
After the tournament, the next step was to choose a nonprofit in Kansas City aligned with organ donation.

“It was a clear decision for me. My late father’s organs were donated through Midwest Transplant Network, so I already had a personal connection to the organization,” he explained. “I brought the idea to our President Jimmy Welsh, Vice President Ben Herweck, and my co-chair Daniel Ross, and they immediately supported the choice without hesitation.”

“This is a full circle moment for us,” said Sarah. “Shea’s dad, Bernard Walsh, died suddenly May 4, 2014. We authorized use of anything viable to Midwest Transplant Network on that date. To know that Shea’s fraternity decided to have an event and only asked that the funds be donated to donor organizations warmed our hearts.

“We are grateful to offer this donation and hopeful that it will help in some way,” she continued.

Shea has similar feelings about being a donor hero family.

“Organ donation, to me, is truly lifesaving. I understand how rare and difficult it can be to receive a match, and that makes every donor even more meaningful. During our event, ATO alumnus Mark McIntosh shared his own emotional story of receiving a kidney transplant. His words reinforced just how critical and powerful organ donation really is.”

Support for public awareness
All contributions to Midwest Transplant Network support public education for organ, eye and tissue donation, as well as donor family services. Donated funds help ensure that people have access to information to make a decision about organ, eye and tissue donation.

A college-age man and a woman sitting at a conference table.

Shea Walsh and his mom, Sarah Walsh, smile during a conversation at Midwest Transplant Network. The Walshes presented a donation to MTN on behalf of Shea’s fraternity, Alpha Tau Omega, University of Missouri.

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