In this moving episode of In Their Words, we spotlight the unsung heroes behind UPMC Harrisburg's living kidney donor program: Living Donor Coordinator Jackie Stifler and Social Worker and Living Donor Advocate Amy Zook. Together, they guide donors through one of the most selfless acts imaginable—giving the gift of life. With decades of combined experience in nursing and social work, Jackie and Amy share what drew them to this work, the deep bonds they form with donors, and the emotional highs and lows of each transplant journey.
They reflect on the inspiring story of Ray Chung and his father-in-law David, whose life was transformed by Ray’s kidney donation—even amidst the challenges of COVID-19. From rigorous testing to operating room moments and post-surgery scrapbooks, Jackie and Amy offer a rare, behind-the-scenes look at the human side of transplant care. Their compassion, commitment, and humor shine through as they explain what makes this work deeply rewarding—and why they never stop advocating for more people to consider becoming living donors.
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