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**Gift of Life**

The Organ Transplant Podcast. Gift of Life is Hosted by BJ Odom, a double transplant recipient who received a life-saving heart in 2003 and a kidney in 2015. BJ knows firsthand the power of organ donation. After receiving a heart transplant and facing the challenges of anti-rejection medication, he needed a second transplant – a kidney. Now, BJ shares his inspiring journey and those of others in the organ transplant world. Hear from those in the medical field, transplant recipients, donor families, and more, all to raise awareness about the lifesaving gift of organ donation.

Latest Episodes:

**Gift of Life 106 The Organ Transplant Podcast** May 05, 2026
Show notes

Some journeys are defined not just by survival… but by the unwavering love of family.

In this heartfelt episode of Gift of Life – The Organ Transplant Podcast, we meet Melissa and her daughter Haley—a powerful mother-daughter team whose story spans miles, challenges, and incredible devotion.

With Melissa living in Wisconsin and Haley in South Carolina, distance could have made this journey even more difficult. But when Melissa learned she needed a double lung transplant, Haley didn’t hesitate. She stepped into the role of caregiver, standing by her mom every step of the way.

From diagnosis to transplant and beyond, this episode shares the raw, real, and inspiring moments of their journey—highlighting the strength it takes to face the unknown and the love that carries them through.

With the support of Haley’s husband and daughter, this family came together in a beautiful way to make the impossible possible.

This is a story of sacrifice, resilience, and the incredible bond between a mother and daughter.

Don’t miss this inspiring, full-circle journey—from beginning to a life-changing second chance.

Let’s Stay Connected:

Email: giftoflifepodcast@gmail.com

Website: www.giftoflifepodcast.com

Facebook: Gift of Life – The Organ Transplant Podcast

Listen & Share: https://lnk.to/GiftofLife

BJ Odom’s Book

More Parts Than A Chicken Nugget

Grab your copy today: https://a.co/d/gNgC9jO

Available in paperback & eBook!

Help Us Spread the Message

If this episode touched your heart:

Subscribe and leave a 5-star review on your favorite podcast platform

Share this episode with family and friends

Together, we’re raising awareness, honoring donors, and celebrating new beginnings.

Thank you for being part of our life-giving community…

**Gift of Life 105 The Organ Transplant Podcast** Apr 28, 2026
Show notes

n this powerful and heartfelt episode of Gift of Life – The Organ Transplant Podcast, we meet Brian Campbell, a heart transplant recipient whose journey reflects the strength, patience, and resilience so many in the transplant community know all too well.

Brian’s story begins with a diagnosis of cardiomyopathy, a condition that slowly changed the course of his life. What followed was a long and difficult battle—years of managing his condition, facing uncertainty, and holding onto hope while waiting for the call that would ultimately save his life.

That call finally came… and with it, Brian received his Gift of Life—a second chance made possible through organ donation.

But beyond his own journey, one of Brian’s most meaningful and emotional moments didn’t happen in a hospital—it happened at home.

He shares the pride he felt when his son came home after renewing his driver’s license and proudly showed him the designation that said he was an organ donor. In that moment, Brian saw something bigger than his own story… a legacy of compassion, awareness, and the power of paying it forward.

This episode is a beautiful reminder that organ donation doesn’t just save lives—it inspires generations.

In This Episode, You’ll Hear:

Brian’s journey from cardiomyopathy diagnosis to transplant

The emotional and physical challenges of waiting for a new heart

What life looks like after receiving a transplant

A powerful father-son moment that highlights the importance of organ donation

Why sharing your story can inspire others to say “yes” to donation

Why This Episode Matters:

Brian’s story is about more than survival—it’s about legacy, family, and hope. It’s about how one life saved can influence many more, and how the decision to become an organ donor can ripple through generations.

Let’s Stay Connected:

Email: giftoflifepodcast@gmail.com

Website: www.giftoflifepodcast.com

Facebook: Gift of Life – The Organ Transplant Podcast

Listen & Share: https://lnk.to/GiftofLife

BJ Odom’s Book

More Parts Than A Chicken Nugget

Grab your copy today: https://a.co/d/gNgC9jO

Available in paperback & eBook!

Help Us Spread the Message:

If this episode touched your heart:

Subscribe on your favorite podcast platform

Leave a 5-star review

Share this episode with family and friends

Together, we’re raising awareness, honoring donors, and celebrating new beginnings. Thank you for being part of this life-giving community.

**Gift of Life 104 The Organ Transplant Podcast** Apr 21, 2026
Show notes

In this inspiring episode of Gift of Life, we meet Brian Rubash, a true testament to resilience, faith, and the power of a positive mindset.

Brian’s journey is nothing short of extraordinary. He has undergone not one, not two—but three kidney transplants over the course of his life. His transplant story began as a child, continued through his college years, and now carries into this current chapter of life.

One of the most remarkable parts of Brian’s journey is that his second transplant lasted an incredible 22 years—a testament to perseverance, medical advancement, and determination. Now, with his third transplant, we’re all hoping and believing for many more healthy years ahead.

What truly sets Brian apart is his outlook. He credits much of his strength and survival to something simple—but powerful:

A gift of humor and a positive attitude.

Sound familiar? It’s a mindset that mirrors so many in the transplant community—choosing joy, even in the hardest moments.

This episode is a reminder that while the journey may be long and uncertain, how we face it can make all the difference.

In This Episode:

Brian’s journey through three kidney transplants

What it was like navigating transplant life from childhood to adulthood

The incredible longevity of his second transplant

The emotional and physical challenges along the way

How humor and positivity became key to his survival

Encouragement for anyone currently waiting or struggling

Why This Episode Matters

Brian’s story is one of hope, endurance, and perspective. It highlights the importance of staying mentally strong and finding light—even in life’s toughest battles.

Let’s Stay Connected:

Email: giftoflifepodcast@gmail.com

Website: www.giftoflifepodcast.com

Facebook: Gift of Life – The Organ Transplant Podcast

Listen & Share: https://lnk.to/GiftofLife

BJ Odom’s Book

More Parts Than A Chicken Nugget

Grab your copy today: https://a.co/d/gNgC9jO

Available in paperback & eBook!

Help Us Spread the Message:

If this episode touched your heart:

Subscribe on your favorite podcast platform

Leave a review

Share this episode with family and friends

Together, we’re raising awareness, honoring donors, and celebrating new beginnings.

Thank you for being part of our life-giving community.

**Gift of Life 103 The Organ Transplant Podcast** Apr 14, 2026
Show notes

This week on Gift of Life, we bring you a deeply moving and faith-filled conversation with David Rhoades—a man whose strength, courage, and unwavering belief in God will truly touch your heart.

David has been in the ICU for 52 days, sustained by an IABP (Intra-Aortic Balloon Pump), as he waits for the miracle of a heart transplant. In this powerful episode, David shares his journey from the beginning of his diagnosis to the reality of waiting—day by day—for the gift that could save his life.

Through it all, David leans on faith. He speaks openly about the power of prayer—not just for himself, but for others walking this same road. He asks for prayers for fellow transplant patients who are waiting, and also for the families who may soon face unimaginable loss so that others may live. It’s a humbling and emotional reminder of the true meaning behind organ donation.

Alongside him is his beautiful fiancée, standing strong in love and faith, believing that David’s miracle is on the way. Together, they embody hope, resilience, and the belief that God’s timing is always perfect—even in the hardest moments.

David also shares the emotional weight of knowing that his second chance at life will come through another family’s loss. It’s a perspective that will stay with you long after the episode ends.

This is more than just a story—it’s a call to prayer, a call to compassion, and a powerful testament to the gift of life.

Please keep David, his family, and all those waiting for transplants in your prayers.

You will not want to miss this unforgettable episode.

Let’s Stay Connected:

Email: giftoflifepodcast@gmail.com

Website: www.giftoflifepodcast.com

Facebook: Gift of Life – The Organ Transplant Podcast

Listen & Share: https://lnk.to/GiftofLife

BJ Odom’s Book

More Parts Than A Chicken Nugget

Grab your copy today: https://a.co/d/gNgC9jO

Available in paperback & eBook!

If this episode touched your heart, help us spread the message:

Subscribe and leave a 5-star review on your favorite podcast platforms.

Share this episode with family and friends.

Together, we’re raising awareness, honoring donors, and celebrating new beginnings. Thank you for being part of our life-giving community.

**Gift of Life 102 The Organ Transplant Podcast** Apr 07, 2026
Show notes

Some stories don’t just continue… they come full circle in the most powerful and inspiring ways.

You may remember this incredible couple from earlier episodes of the podcast.

In Episode 55, we met Terri Cecere, a heart transplant recipient, and heard her powerful story of survival, faith, and second chances.

Then in Episode 56, her husband George Cecere joined us to share his perspective as a devoted caregiver—and introduced his passion project, TCH Caregivers Heart, a support group created to uplift and encourage those walking alongside loved ones through the transplant journey.

If you haven’t listened to those episodes yet, we highly encourage you to go back and hear Episode 55 and Episode 56 to fully experience the depth of their journey.

And now… the story continues.

In Episode 102, everything comes full circle.

George, who once stood beside his wife as her caregiver, has now stepped into a new and extraordinary role—living donor—selflessly giving one of his kidneys to a complete stranger.

This isn’t just an update… it’s a testimony.

A testimony of love in action.

Of faith becoming movement.

Of one life changing another forever.

This episode will move you, inspire you, and remind you just how powerful the gift of life truly is.

You will not want to miss this one. I promise you.

Learn More About TCH Caregivers Heart

www.tchcaregiversheart.com

Let’s Stay Connected

Email: giftoflifepodcast@gmail.com

Website: www.giftoflifepodcast.com

Facebook: Gift of Life – The Organ Transplant Podcast

Listen & Share: https://lnk.to/GiftofLife

BJ Odom’s Book

More Parts Than A Chicken Nugget

Grab your copy today: https://a.co/d/gNgC9jO

Available in paperback & eBook!

Help Us Spread the Message

If this episode touched your heart:

Subscribe and leave a 5-star review on your favorite podcast platform

Share this episode with family and friends

Together, we’re raising awareness, honoring donors, and celebrating new beginnings.

Thank you for being part of our life-giving community

**Gift of Life 101 The Organ Transplant Podcast** Mar 31, 2026
Show notes

In this powerful and deeply moving episode, we meet Brian Springer, a true warrior whose journey will touch your heart and stay with you long after the episode ends.

Brian has already endured four open-heart surgeries, and most recently, received an LVAD (Left Ventricular Assist Device)—a life-sustaining device that is keeping him alive as he waits for the ultimate gift… a new heart.

But Brian’s journey comes with an added challenge.

With 99% antibodies, finding a compatible organ donor is incredibly difficult. His wait for a heart transplant could be years away—time he continues to face with courage, resilience, and an unwavering positive spirit.

In this episode, Brian not only shares his story, but also sheds light on something so important:

the critical need for more organ donors.

Because for patients like Brian, the more people who choose to donate, the greater the chance of finding that one life-saving match.

This is more than just a story…

It’s a reminder of the power of hope, the strength of the human spirit, and the life-saving impact of organ donation.

You will not want to miss this episode.

Let’s Stay Connected:

Email: giftoflifepodcast@gmail.com

Website: www.giftoflifepodcast.com

Facebook: Gift of Life – The Organ Transplant Podcast

Listen & Share: https://lnk.to/GiftofLife

BJ Odom’s book

More Parts Than A Chicken Nugget

Grab your copy today: https://a.co/d/gNgC9jO

Available in paperback & eBook!

If this episode touched your heart, help us spread the message:

Subscribe and leave a 5-star review on your favorite podcast platform.

Share this episode with family and friends.

Together, we’re raising awareness, honoring donors, and celebrating new beginnings.

Thank you for being part of our life-giving community…

**Gift of Life 100 The Organ Transplant Podcast** Mar 24, 2026
Show notes

In this milestone Episode 100, BJ welcomes Mike Duncan from Bloomington, Indiana, whose life-saving liver transplant journey is a powerful reminder of the life-changing impact of organ donation.

Mike’s story began in 2016 when subtle symptoms during a trip to Florida — dark urine, yellowing eyes, and swelling — revealed something much more serious. His liver was failing.

What followed was a frightening medical journey that included hospitalization, severe complications from liver failure, and the emotional challenge of waiting for a donor organ.

While on the transplant list, Mike experienced the harsh realities of liver disease, including high ammonia levels that caused confusion and hallucinations. Through it all, his partner Jeff, along with family and friends, rallied around him with encouragement and support.

After a heartbreaking false alarm when a donor liver was found but ultimately deemed unusable, Mike’s health continued to decline. Just weeks later, the call came again — and this time the transplant moved forward.

Following surgery, Mike faced rejection, extreme weakness from months in the hospital, and an intense rehabilitation process. At one point he believed he might spend the rest of his life in a wheelchair.

But determination, medical care, and the love of those around him helped him fight back.

Today, Mike Duncan is thriving, working out daily and living life to the fullest thanks to the incredible gift of organ donation.

His story is one of resilience, hope, and the power of never giving up.

Let’s Stay Connected:

Email: giftoflifepodcast@gmail.com

Website: www.giftoflifepodcast.com

Facebook: Gift of Life – The Organ Transplant Podcast

Listen & Share: https://lnk.to/GiftofLife

BJ Odom’s book

More Parts Than A Chicken Nugget

Grab your copy today: https://a.co/d/gNgC9jO

Available in paperback & eBook!

If this episode touched your heart, help us spread the message:

Subscribe and leave a 5-star review on your favorite podcast platforms.

Share this episode with family and friends. Together, we’re raising awareness, honoring donors, and celebrating new beginnings. Thank you for being part of our life-giving community.

**Gift of Life 99 The Organ Transplant Podcast** Mar 17, 2026
Show notes

On this show, we always start at the beginning — because every transplant story is different.

For this husband of 22 years, father of three, and lifelong pastor from Charlotte, his story actually began at six weeks old. Doctors suspected hepatitis after he struggled to gain weight and keep food down. After exploratory surgery, life returned to normal — or so it seemed.

In his mid-20s, a routine scan for a kidney stone revealed something shocking: signs of cirrhosis. He had never touched alcohol. Doctors told him it was mild and would need attention “someday.” So he lived life — raising his family, working in ministry, even spending several years in Seattle — without major symptoms for nearly 20 years.

Then in the summer of 2025, everything changed fast.

He developed severe fluid retention, confusion, and memory distortion. At one ER visit, he couldn’t answer how many quarters are in $1.50. He was diagnosed with hepatic encephalopathy, a dangerous buildup of toxins affecting the brain. After multiple hospitalizations and a frightening episode where he became unresponsive at home, he was sent for transplant evaluation at Duke University Hospital.

During evaluation, doctors discovered a liver tumor (HCC), accelerating the need for transplant. He was listed — and received “the call” in less than three days.

His transplant took place September 24. He was discharged October 1 and returned home October 15 after a strong recovery.

Today, nearly five months post-transplant, his labs look excellent and he’s had no major medication complications.

In this episode, he shares:

Living decades with silent liver disease

The terrifying reality of hepatic encephalopathy

Getting a transplant call almost immediately after listing

The fears surrounding surgery and medication side effects

Gratitude for a second chance at life

Every transplant story is different. This one is a powerful reminder that liver disease isn’t always alcohol-related — and that sometimes life can change in a matter of days.

Let’s Stay Connected:

Email: giftoflifepodcast@gmail.com

Website: www.giftoflifepodcast.com

Facebook: Gift of Life – The Organ Transplant Podcast

Listen & Share: https://lnk.to/GiftofLife

BJ Odom’s book

More Parts Than A Chicken Nugget

Grab your copy today: https://a.co/d/gNgC9jO

Available in paperback & eBook!

If this episode touched your heart, help us spread the message:

Subscribe and leave a 5-star review on your favorite podcast platforms.

Share this episode with family and friends. Together, we’re raising awareness, honoring donors, and celebrating new beginnings. Thank you for being part of our life-giving community.

**Gift of Life 98 The Organ Transplant Podcast** Mar 10, 2026
Show notes

Some inspire.

And some ask us to lean in and truly listen.

This is one of those episodes.

In Episode 98, we introduce you to Shawn Kortes — a husband, a father, and a man courageously fighting for more time.

Shawn is in need of an O positive kidney transplant.

His story is real. It’s raw. And it’s unfolding right now.

He shares openly about:

Living with kidney failure

The emotional weight of waiting

What it feels like to depend on the generosity of a living donor

His hope for more birthdays, more holidays, more everyday moments with his family

This conversation isn’t just about medicine.

It’s about time.

It’s about love.

It’s about the power of one person saying yes.

If you’ve ever wondered what it truly means to wait for a life-saving organ, this episode gives you a front-row seat to that reality.

And if you’ve ever considered becoming a living donor — this may be the story that moves you to take the next step.

Shawn's links to help: https://nkr.org/RJV252

Listen now.

Share widely.

You never know who might be the miracle someone is praying for.

Let’s Stay Connected:

Email: giftoflifepodcast@gmail.com

Website: www.giftoflifepodcast.com

Facebook: Gift of Life – The Organ Transplant Podcast

Listen & Share: https://lnk.to/GiftofLife

BJ Odom’s Book

More Parts Than A Chicken Nugget

Grab your copy today: https://a.co/d/gNgC9jO

Available in paperback & eBook!

If this episode touched your heart, help us spread the message:

Subscribe and leave a 5-star review on your favorite podcast platforms.

Share this episode with family and friends.

Together, we’re raising awareness, honoring donors, and celebrating new beginnings.

Thank you for being part of our life-giving community.

Gift of Life 97 The Organ Transplant Podcast Mar 03, 2026

Show notes

Imagine entering this world on December 16, 1991… and just weeks later, on January 22, 1992, receiving the ultimate second chance — a heart transplant.

In Episode 97, we introduce you to Laszlo Mark, who is now celebrating 34 incredible years with his donor heart.

This is more than a survival story.

This is a life fully lived.

Laszlo shares what it means to grow up knowing your life began with a miracle. He reflects on the challenges, the gratitude, the responsibility, and the deep awareness that every birthday carries extra meaning. From childhood milestones to adulthood purpose, Laszlo’s journey is powerful, thoughtful, and inspiring.

And today? He’s not just living — he’s giving back.

Laszlo is actively studying and learning more about the transplant world, diving deeper into the science and community that saved his life. His passion to understand transplantation from every angle makes this conversation especially compelling.

This episode is filled with hope, perspective, and the reminder that transplantation doesn’t just extend life — it creates decades of impact.

You’ll hear:

• What it’s like to grow up as a transplant recipient

• How gratitude shapes daily living

• Why 34 years post-transplant is such a powerful milestone

• What drives Laszlo’s interest in studying the transplant world today

This is a meaningful, fascinating conversation you truly don’t want to miss.