Life Changing Connections: A Conversation with Network for Hope Advocates

In this episode, Jeremy sits down with Sara Russo and John Mock from Network for Hope, an independent nonprofit organ procurement organization. Together, they explore the life-changing work of organ and tissue donation — from the hospital bedside to the recipient's second chance at life. 

 

Learn how the organization evolved from a merger between LifeCenter and KODA, now serving 7 million people as one of the largest OPOs in the U.S. 

 

00:00 Jeremy introduces the episode and the theme: highlighting breakthroughs in healthcare through the lens of organ donation. 

 

00:36 Sara Russo (Hospital Partnership Liaison, Network for Hope) and John Mock (organ recipient and ambassador) join the conversation. 

 

01:14 Sara shares her journey from CTI and Cincinnati Children’s to her current role at Network for Hope. 

 

02:19 John reflects on his personal connection as a liver transplant recipient and how clinical trials played a role in his journey. 

 

03:01 The guests discuss how Network for Hope has impacted their lives and shifted their perspectives on organ donation. 

 

04:16 John shares his transplant story, touching on survivor’s guilt and the powerful impact of donation. 

 

06:26 The 2024 merger between LifeCenter and KODA forms Network for Hope — now serving nearly 7 million people. 

 

08:21 Sarah discusses the launch of the first donor care unit in the region, housed in UC’s Flex ICU, and how it's improving organ recovery rates. 

 

11:37 Addressing common misconceptions about donation — from faith concerns to mistrust in hospitals. 

 

14:56 A look at the compassionate approach taken when working with grieving donor families. 

 

15:38 Network for Hope provides six weeks of support followed by a minimum of 18 months through their aftercare team. 

 

17:05 Families participate in honor walks and remembrance ceremonies, recognizing the heroism of donors. 

 

18:11 John shares his unique post-transplant bond with his donor’s family and how they now advocate together. 

 

21:01 Network for Hope encourages transplant recipients to write to their donor families through a new writing station initiative at UC. 

 

23:03 A thoughtful explanation of how donor-recipient relationships are carefully managed and supported. 

 

24:14 Sara and John share what they look forward to most in April — from flag-raising ceremonies to educational outreach. 

 

26:41 Listeners are encouraged to register as donors, volunteer, and speak to their loved ones about their wishes. 

 

27:56 Network for Hope is spotlighted as CTI’s North American Charity of the Quarter. Closing thanks and resources.