LyfeTalks brought to you by TransplantLyfe

In this episode, Jeanmarie sits down with Vanessa, a kidney transplant recipient and airline pilot, and chats about traveling after transplant. She shares how she rebuilt confidence, started small, and prepared carefully before exploring the world again. Jeanmarie also shares how Vanessa’s tips helped her feel ready to travel solo to Italy. This episode is full of practical advice for planning, packing medications, navigating airports, and staying safe while still enjoying the adventure. Follow Vanessa at @travelswithtransplant. 

In Episode 4, Jeanmarie speaks with Beau Daly, who made the decision to donate a kidney to his brother-in-law.

Beau shares a candid and thoughtful perspective on what led him to step forward, what the process looked like, and how living donation shaped his relationships and sense of purpose.

In Episode 3, Jeanmarie speaks with Lisa Hehenberger, who donated a kidney to her sister.

Lisa shares an honest and personal look at what led her to say yes, what the experience was really like, and how living donation impacted her family.

In this episode, Jeanmarie sits down with Tim Andrews, who made history by receiving a xenotransplant, a genetically modified pig kidney that sustained him for nine months. Now back on dialysis and waiting for a human kidney, Tim’s courage and selflessness have helped move transplant science forward and opened doors for future patients. His story is one of resilience, hope, and the power of putting others first. 

October is Liver Awareness Month in the U.S. We’re bringing you a special conversation with two of our amazing community members and liver transplant recipients, Alisha Hiebert and Leslie Macnab. They open up about their transplant journeys—from the moment of surgery to the ongoing process of physical and emotional recovery. While at different stages, both highlight how the mind-body connection is key to healing trauma and moving forward. Tune in for an inspiring and heartfelt discussion!

Tune in for a new episode as Gabriel Cooper, a dual-organ recipient and a psychotherapist, chats with LaVise McCray about his unique perspective on survivor’s guilt. Gabriel suffered the effects of Type-1 Diabetes for 20 years and did 2-years of Peritoneal Dialysis, before receiving a kidney/pancreas transplant in 2022. His own experience inspired him to change careers and for the last 10 years, Gabriel has been helping other patients navigate their mental health and relationships. In his spare time, he is an avid runner and loves to travel with his husband and their beloved terrier.  

 LaVise McCray sits down with Jeanmarie to discuss her powerful transplant journey. Nearly 20 years after receiving her first kidney transplant at age 24, Jeanmarie reflects on her experiences with honesty and strength. Now awaiting a second life-saving transplant, she shares what drives her ongoing advocacy, the role of self-care in navigating chronic illness, and the heartfelt message she holds for her future donor. 

LaVise McCray sits down with Christopher Bryant, a healthcare advocate, AKF Kidney Coach, advisory board member with NJ Sharing Network, trustee of the Sharing Foundation, diabetes ambassador, and motivational speaker. Christopher opens up about his journey with type 1 diabetes leading to advanced kidney disease and shares how his personal story fuels his mission to educate and empower others. They highlight the importance of getting the right information, building trust in the healthcare system, and taking proactive steps like regular screenings.

In this episode, dialysis patients LaVise McCray, Emmitt Henderson, and Alex Berrios come together for a candid conversation about all things dialysis—from the emotional rollercoaster of starting treatment to the everyday challenges. Whether you're on dialysis, considering it, or supporting someone who is, this episode offers powerful insights and advice that go beyond the medical textbook. Tune in for a deep and honest discussion that shines a light on what dialysis life is really like.

Kevin Schnurr joins Jeanmarie to share his incredible story — from an unexpected urgent care visit to an urgent need for dialysis. Diagnosed with Alport syndrome in his mid-20s, Kevin's journey took an unexpected turn that ultimately led to a life-saving kidney donation from a former work colleague. Listen in as he shares the whirlwind of emotions, challenges, and hope along the way.