This Thing Called Life

By Network For HopeSociety & Culture Medicine Health & Fitness Relationships Personal Journals

This Thing Called Life episodes

October 06EP 140 Replay: "Strength in Every Generation: Orlando Brown Jr. on Family, Football, and Understanding Type 1 Diabetes"
Episode Summary
Cincinnati Bengals Offensive Lineman Orlando Brown Jr. opens up about his family’s powerful story of resilience and awareness in the face of Type 1 diabetes. After losing his father to diabetic ketoacidosis and supporting his brother through the same diagnosis, Orlando has turned his personal loss into a mission for generational health.
In this episode of This Thing Called Life, Orlando discusses how going through the process of genetic testing, prioritizing dietary choices, and educating his family on the disease has shaped their understanding of health—and why awareness, prevention, and advocacy matter for every family.
Episode Highlights
Host Andi Johnson welcomes Cincinnati Bengals offensive lineman Orlando Brown Jr. for a meaningful conversation about family, football, and health advocacy.
Orlando shares his appreciation for being on the show and talks about continuing his journey with Cincinnati for two more seasons.
He explains the story behind his signature fox tail, a tradition that began in college as a good luck charm and has since become part of his identity.
Orlando reflects on his unique path to football, including how his father—former NFL player Orlando Brown Sr.—initially did not want him or his siblings to play sports because of the physical risks involved.
He shares how, despite that hesitation, his love for football continued to grow, eventually leading him to begin playing in the eighth grade.
Orlando talks about how his father later became one of his biggest supporters, helping him develop his game and encouraging his growth as an athlete.
The conversation takes a deeper turn as Orlando opens up about his father’s undiagnosed diabetes and the devastating impact it had on his family.
He discusses how cultural beliefs, distrust of the medical system, and reliance on home remedies can sometimes delay diagnosis and treatment—especially in communities where medical mistrust has been passed down over time.
Orlando also shares his family’s experience with his brother’s Type 1 diabetes diagnosis, and how that moment brought a new level of urgency and awareness to their lives.
He emphasizes the importance of early detection, prevention, and education, especially for families who may be at greater risk.
Orlando speaks candidly about the steps he now takes to protect his own health, including monitoring his body closely and making intentional lifestyle choices to avoid the same health challenges that affected his family.
He shares how supporting his brother and others living with Type 1 diabetes deepened his understanding of the daily realities of the disease.
Orlando highlights his advocacy work, including efforts to make insulin more affordable, raise awareness, and support research aimed at prevention and a cure.
He discusses participating in preventive testing and trials, using his platform to encourage others to take action before health issues become crises.
Orlando also opens up about the meaning behind several of his tattoos, including one honoring his father and another connected to his brother’s diagnosis.
He shares the story of one of his most meaningful tattoos—a portrait of his grandfather—and reflects on the powerful influence his grandfather had on his life and values.
The episode also touches on Orlando’s commitment to long-term wellness through nutrition. He explains why he hired a full-time nutritionist to help reduce inflammation, improve recovery, and better understand how food affects his body.
He talks about preventative health practices, natural remedies, and the importance of using today’s science and resources to avoid the chronic health issues many former athletes face later in life.
Orlando closes by speaking about his role on the field, his love for protecting his quarterback, and the importance of being a consistent, vocal leader for his team.
Key Takeaways
Family health history matters more than many people realize.
Orlando’s story is a powerful reminder that understanding your family’s medical history can help you make informed, life-saving decisions earlier.
Awareness and early action can change outcomes.
From genetic testing to prevention efforts, this episode underscores the importance of paying attention to warning signs and taking proactive steps before a health crisis occurs.
Personal pain can become purposeful advocacy.
Orlando has transformed his family’s loss and challenges into a mission to educate others, support research, and use his platform to drive meaningful change.
Tweetable Quotes
“My football story is really unique. My so my dad played in the NFL for 13 years, and he didn't start playing till he was in 11th grade in high school, and his biggest thing for me and my siblings were he didn't want us playing sports.”
Orlando Brown Jr.
“I would always go to the practices. I kept up with it. So I've always had a real passion for the game of football, but he would not let me play. For him, football is a dark sport in a way, you know, and I've been fortunate in my path to get here, I was drafted, and I've had better opportunities than he did.”
Orlando Brown Jr.
“Southern black culture isn't, you know, the hospitals and doctors and medicine, it's more about remedies and, you know, things like that. That was my family. Distrust of the medical system.”
Orlando Brown Jr.
“ It's so important because, you know, as you said, experiencing it firsthand. You know, I always want to make sure that somebody can learn from my mistakes and or my family's mistakes. And that's so important. It's so important to be able to get ahead of it.”
Orlando Brown Jr.
“I've spent a lot of time, I feel like all over the US. I've gone to the Senate and talked about making insulin more affordable. I've gone to different children's Mercy hospitals across the US and work with them on finding a cure. I've completed the trial net, which is the preventive version of type one, just to make sure you don't have the antibodies.“
Orlando Brown Jr.
“My nutritionist does this food test where she's able to tell you what food you can and can't eat that inflames your body.”
Orlando Brown Jr.

Resources:
Donatelifeky.org
https://getoffthelist.org/
https://www.networkforhope.org/
https://www.networkforhope.org/about-us/
https://www.networkforhope.org/stories-of-hope/
https://www.facebook.com/NetworkForHopeOPO
https://www.youtube.com/@NetworkforHope.
https://aopo.org/
RegisterMe.org/NetworkforHope
39 min
September 29 EP 155: Celebrando el inicio del Mes de la Herencia Hispana (Celebrating the start of the Hispanic Heritage Month)
Celebrando el inicio del Mes de la Herencia Hispana (Celebrating the start of the Hispanic Heritage Month)
This episode of TTCL will feature an interview with Luis Santiago from NFH on La Mega.
This monthly interview will inform the Spanish Community about Network For Hope and the incredible miracles that happen with Organ, Tissue, and Eye Donation.

Resources:
https://getoffthelist.org/
https://www.networkforhope.org/
https://www.networkforhope.org/about-us/
https://www.facebook.com/NetworkForHopeOPO
https://aopo.org/
RegisterMe.org/NetworkforHope
12 min
September 22EP 154: Remembering Reco Gunnels: Turning Legacy Into Lifesaving Action
Episode Title: Remembering Reco Gunnels: Turning Legacy Into Lifesaving Action

Episode Description:
In this powerful episode of THIS THING CALLED Life, host Andi Johnson welcomes Kelly Gunnels, Ashley Smith of Hoxworth Blood Center, and Officer Johnson with the Cincinnati Police Department Community Relations Unit for an inspiring conversation about community, remembrance, and the power of giving.
The conversation shines a light on the 8th Annual Reco Gunnels Senior Memorial Blood Drive, taking place September 26, 2026—an event created to honor the life and legacy of Reco Gunnels, who was tragically killed in 2017.
Before his passing, Reco often reminded those around him of the importance of “Go Big or Go Home”—a call to be intentional, purposeful, and meaningful in everything he did. Today, that message continues through a community coming together to save lives, build relationships, and turn tragedy into a lasting legacy of service.
Join Andi and her guests as they discuss the heart behind the memorial blood drive, the importance of community collaboration, Reco’s impact as a tissue donor, and how one person's message can continue to inspire meaningful action years later.
Episode Highlights
Andi Johnson introduces the episode and explores the importance of community through the story of the Reco Gunnels Senior Memorial Blood Drive.
Kelly Gunnels shares the personal story behind the memorial blood drive and her desire to honor her brother Reco, who was tragically killed in 2017.
Kelly reflects on Reco’s personality, his commitment to community, and the meaning behind his familiar message: “Go Big or Go Home.”
The guests discuss how the annual blood drive has grown into a community tradition that turns remembrance into meaningful action.
Kelly shares how Reco became a tissue donor and how his donation has continued to make a difference, including through his cornea and ongoing research.
Ashley Smith of Hoxworth explains how mobile blood drives bring donation opportunities directly into local communities and help make blood donation part of everyday community life.
The conversation highlights why maintaining a strong blood supply before an emergency happens is so important.
Officer Anthony Johnson discusses the Cincinnati Police Department’s Community Relations Unit and its efforts to build relationships with residents and support crime victims and their families.
The guests discuss how community events can create opportunities to celebrate life, strengthen relationships, and provide education beyond moments of tragedy.
The conversation highlights the importance of bringing organ and tissue donation education into communities, particularly communities of color.
Kelly shares why she believes people should know their health numbers, including blood pressure, and take changes in their health seriously.
The guests discuss the importance of talking with family members about organ and tissue donation decisions before a crisis occurs.
Kelly also shares about her book, A Widow’s Guide, and how her experiences with grief, trauma, faith, and healing have shaped her desire to help others.
The episode highlights the upcoming 8th Annual Reco Gunnels Senior Memorial Blood Drive, taking place September 26, 2026, at the Holloman Center, 3539 Reading Road, Cincinnati. Hoxworth currently lists the event as a memorial blood drive and notes that the donor bus will be located at the Holloman Center.
Dr. Calhoun from UC College of Medicine will also be part of the event, helping provide education and demonstrations related to lifesaving practices.
Kelly, Ashley, and Officer Johnson reflect on how Reco’s story continues to bring people together and create opportunities to serve others.
The conversation closes with a powerful reminder that legacy is not only about how someone is remembered—it is also about what their life inspires others to do.
Key Takeaways
1. Legacy can become a source of service.
Reco’s life was tragically cut short, but his family has chosen to honor his memory by creating opportunities for others to give, serve, and make a difference.
2. Community participation can save lives.
Blood donations are an essential part of caring for patients during medical emergencies, surgeries, cancer treatment, and other critical situations. Hoxworth notes that blood cannot be manufactured and depends on volunteer donors.
3. Conversations about donation matter.
Making an informed decision about organ, tissue, and eye donation—and sharing that decision with loved ones—can help families understand and honor a person's wishes during an incredibly difficult time.
Tweetable Quotes
“Finally, got a letter from Katie saying how many people were blessed around the world, not just in the United States, around the world from Reco's donation and how his cornea is still being used for research today for blindness.”
Kelly Gunnels
“You know, with these mobile blood drives, we can come into the community and literally be a part of it, even if it is just for a few hours. But then, maybe people remember.”
Ashley Smith
“But if people hear Reco's story and that you know Kelly's a donor, and that he had checked that box to be a donor himself. That he'll just remember that it does take those volunteer blood donors to get that blood on the shelf and make sure it's there when that tragedy does happen.”
Ashley Smith
“We know how important this is for Reco because his story doesn't end on that day. It goes beyond that.”
Officer Johnson
“So get your numbers. Know what they are. Get checked. If you're having heart palpitations, you're having something going on. Go to the doctor, go get checked. Don't take it for granted that it's just anxiety.”
Kelly Gunnels
Event Information
8th Annual Reco Gunnels Senior Memorial Blood Drive
Date: Saturday, September 26, 2026
Location: Holloman Center, 3539 Reading Road, Cincinnati, OH 45229
Blood Drive: Hoxworth Blood Center donor bus
Hoxworth's current event listing confirms the September 26 memorial blood drive at the Holloman Center. Appointments are encouraged for blood drives, although availability for walk-ins may vary.
Additional episode notes: Reco's twin brother, Ramone Gunnels, also helps Kelly with the memorial event. Kelly's book is A Widow's Guide by KRV Gunnels.
Resources:
Donatelifeky.org
https://getoffthelist.org/
https://www.networkforhope.org/
https://www.networkforhope.org/about-us/
https://www.networkforhope.org/stories-of-hope/
https://www.facebook.com/NetworkForHopeOPO
https://www.youtube.com/@NetworkforHope.
https://aopo.org/
RegisterMe.org/NetworkforHope
30 min
August 04This Thing Called Life: Summer Hiatus Announcement
This Thing Called Life podcast host, Andi Johnson, announces that the podcast is taking a summer hiatus to recharge and prepare for the upcoming season.
Reflecting on Past Seasons: Andi highlights the diverse stories shared in the library of episodes, which include:
Donor families finding purpose through loss.
Recipients who received a second chance at life.
Living donors who made extraordinary choices to help others.
Individuals awaiting life-saving transplants.
Conversations with medical professionals and advocates about the donation process, myths, and the humanity behind medicine.
During the break, please explore the existing library of episodes via podcast platforms. We plan to return with new guests and conversations that continue to inspire hope.
Resources:
Donatelifeky.org
https://getoffthelist.org/
https://www.networkforhope.org/
https://www.networkforhope.org/about-us/
https://www.networkforhope.org/stories-of-hope/
https://www.facebook.com/NetworkForHopeOPO
https://www.youtube.com/@NetworkforHope.
https://aopo.org/
RegisterMe.org/NetworkforHope
5 min
July 28EP 153: A Community of Hope: Sera's Journey to a Life-Saving Kidney Transplant
Episode Title: A Community of Hope: Sera's Journey to a Life-Saving Kidney Transplant
Episode Description:
In this inspiring episode of This Thing Called Life, host Andi Johnson sits down with Hali and Sera Davis to share their family's remarkable journey from uncertainty to hope. They reflect on the power of resilience, the unwavering support of their community, and how one young stranger's decision to become a living donor gave Sera the opportunity to live the childhood every parent dreams of. It's a heartfelt reminder that one act of generosity can transform an entire family's future.
Episode Highlights
Host Andi Johnson welcomes Hali Davis and her daughter Sera, who share the remarkable story of Sera's journey from critical illness to a thriving life after kidney transplantation.
Hali reflects on Sera's difficult birth, explaining how a placental abruption caused significant brain, liver, and kidney damage shortly before delivery.
While Sera's liver healed on its own, her kidneys were permanently affected, requiring dialysis throughout her early childhood as her family waited for a transplant.
Sera, now 12 years old, shares that she has very few memories of dialysis and instead enjoys talking about the life she's able to live today—from spending time with friends to looking forward to moving to a farm and finally getting the pet pig she's always wanted.
Hali explains that she made a conscious decision not to let kidney disease define her daughter. Instead, she encouraged Sera to focus on being a child by dancing, attending sleepovers, participating in activities she loved, and celebrating life's everyday moments.
As transplant became the next step, family members and close friends volunteered to be tested as potential living donors.
One promising donor was ultimately unable to proceed after being diagnosed with non-Hodgkin's lymphoma during the evaluation process—a reminder that donor screening can also uncover previously unknown health conditions.
After exhausting many personal connections, Hali turned to social media, sharing Sera's story in hopes that someone would step forward.
The post quickly spread throughout the community, being shared more than a thousand times and eventually reaching employees at Hali's husband's workplace.
Among those who saw the post was Alex, a 21-year-old who had watched his own mother endure two kidney transplants and felt called to spare another family from a similar journey.
Alex volunteered to be tested, was found to be a compatible living donor, and ultimately gave Sera the life-saving kidney transplant she desperately needed.
Hali and Sera reflect on the emotions surrounding transplant day and the overwhelming gratitude they continue to feel for Alex's extraordinary act of generosity.
Sera shares one of her favorite post-transplant memories: throwing the ceremonial first pitch at a University of Kentucky softball game—a milestone celebrating both her recovery and her new beginning.
Hali expresses heartfelt appreciation for Dr. Ancheta, the pediatric nephrology team, and the many healthcare professionals who cared for Sera throughout every stage of her journey.
Looking back, Hali encourages other families facing serious medical challenges to trust their healthcare team, advocate for their children, ask questions, and never lose hope.
Sera offers simple but powerful advice to other children experiencing difficult health journeys: stay hopeful, believe in yourself, and remember that brighter days are possible.
Key Takeaways
1. A Child's Diagnosis Doesn't Have to Define Their Life
Hali intentionally focused on giving Sera a joyful childhood despite years of medical treatment, reminding families that children are more than their diagnosis.
2. Community Has the Power to Change Lives
A single Facebook post—and one stranger's willingness to help—led to the living kidney donation that transformed Sera's future, demonstrating the incredible impact of compassion and community.
3. Hope Often Arrives in Unexpected Ways
From medical breakthroughs to unexpected donors, Sera's story is a powerful reminder that perseverance, faith, and generosity can open doors when families least expect it.
Tweetable Quotes
“I didn't want her to feel like all she is is kidney disease or getting a transplant. We took our medicine. Really focused on keeping our body healthy, good foods and stuff. And then we danced. We slam. We did all the things that Sarah enjoys, and really kept her going on that positive track.”
Hali Davis
“I took that next step: family, friends, and because there are so many people that rally behind Sera, so family friends got tested as well, and we had a match.”
Hali Davis
“I shared it on Facebook, and then it got shared over 1000s of times. So it really kind of made it throughout the community and even out to other states. And my husband's company also shared it with their employees.”
Hali Davis
“He (Alex, living donor) said his reasoning for wanting to do this is because he watched his mother go through two transplants, through two kidney transplants, and he didn't want a little girl to suffer like that.”
Hali Davis
Resources:
Donatelifeky.org
https://getoffthelist.org/
https://www.networkforhope.org/
https://www.networkforhope.org/about-us/
https://www.networkforhope.org/stories-of-hope/
https://www.facebook.com/NetworkForHopeOPO
https://www.youtube.com/@NetworkforHope.
https://aopo.org/
RegisterMe.org/NetworkforHope
20 min
July 24 Network For Hope Creating Community Awareness at The Cincinnati Music Festival
Network For Hope is in the community this weekend sharing information about Organ, eye, and Tissue donation and registering new donors to join the mission of saving lives.

Resources:
Donatelifeky.org
https://getoffthelist.org/
https://www.networkforhope.org/
https://www.networkforhope.org/about-us/
https://www.networkforhope.org/stories-of-hope/
https://www.facebook.com/NetworkForHopeOPO
https://www.youtube.com/@NetworkforHope.
https://aopo.org/
RegisterMe.org/NetworkforHope
11 min
July 14EP 152: From Waiting to Living: Maria Valentina Almeida’s Journey After Kidney Transplant
Episode Title: From Waiting to Living: Maria Valentina Almeida’s Journey After Kidney Transplant
Episode Description:
On this weeks episode of This Thing Called Life, just weeks after receiving the life-changing phone call she'd been praying for, Maria Valentina Almeida returns to share what life looks like after a successful kidney transplant. From years of declining kidney function to receiving a life-saving transplant through the National Kidney Registry's Voucher Program, Maria reflects on the journey that has transformed not only her health but her outlook on life.
Maria opens up about the emotional day she received "the call," her recovery, the generosity of her living donor, and the faith that carried her through every step of the process. Filled with gratitude, hope, and renewed purpose, this episode is a powerful reminder of the extraordinary impact of living donation and the importance of sharing stories that inspire others to become organ donors.
Episode Highlights
Host Andi Johnson welcomes Maria Valentina Almeida back to This Thing Called Life to celebrate her remarkable recovery following a successful kidney transplant.
Maria shares that she received her transplant on April 2 and has experienced an incredible improvement in kidney function—from just 9% before surgery to approximately 90% afterward.
She expresses profound gratitude for her living donor and reflects on the priceless gift of receiving a second chance at life.
Looking back on the months since her transplant, Maria shares how restored health has transformed her mindset, giving her renewed energy, optimism, and excitement for the future.
Andi and Maria celebrate several life milestones made possible by her improved health, including attending her sister's wedding and eagerly anticipating the birth of her first niece.
Maria reflects on the spiritual significance of receiving her transplant during Holy Week, describing the experience as a powerful reminder of God's timing, hope, and renewal.
She vividly recounts the emotional moment she received the long-awaited transplant call, sharing the shock, excitement, and overwhelming gratitude she felt as she told her family the life-changing news.
Maria describes the emotional reactions of her parents and sister, highlighting the unwavering support they provided throughout her health journey.
The conversation honors the late Liz Bonis, who gave Maria the opportunity to publicly share her transplant journey and advocate for organ donation. Maria reflects on Liz's generosity, kindness, and lasting impact on her life.
Maria explains how the National Kidney Registry Voucher Program made her transplant possible after a compassionate donor, who was not a direct match, chose to donate on her behalf.
She breaks down how the voucher program works, illustrating how one act of generosity can create a chain of life-saving transplants for multiple families.
Maria speaks about the deep gratitude she feels toward the donor whose selfless decision forever changed her life.
She also reminds listeners that transplantation is a treatment—not a cure—and discusses the lifelong commitment required after surgery, including medications, regular monitoring, and managing side effects.
Maria shares the unforgettable moment she woke up after surgery and immediately noticed the physical difference, describing increased energy, improved appetite, and a renewed appreciation for everyday life.
Inspired by her experience, Maria hopes to use her testimony to encourage others facing kidney disease and to advocate for organ, eye, and tissue donation.
She emphasizes the importance of faith, family, community, and self-advocacy, encouraging listeners to seek support, ask questions, and never lose hope during difficult seasons.
The episode concludes with Andi celebrating Maria's incredible journey and expressing excitement for the meaningful future that now lies ahead.
Key Takeaways
1. A Living Donor Can Change Multiple Lives
Maria's story demonstrates how one selfless act through the National Kidney Registry Voucher Program created a pathway to a life-saving transplant, proving that generosity has the power to impact far more people than we often realize.
2. A Transplant Is the Beginning of a New Journey
Receiving a transplant is not the end of the story. Lifelong care, medication, and healthy habits remain essential, but they also open the door to renewed health, new opportunities, and a brighter future.
3. Faith, Community, and Hope Sustain Us Through Life's Hardest Seasons
Maria's journey highlights the incredible strength found in faith, supportive relationships, and the willingness to share one's story to encourage others facing similar challenges.
Tweetable Quotes
“I definitely have been just way more passionate about my future, about life, knowing that I have new restored health. My mindset of everything has completely shifted. I have so many goals set up. Every single day I'm just like trying to get better and better so that I can hit the next milestone.”
Maria Valentina Almeida
“It was just such a blessing and such a relief to hear. I was waiting for so long for those words. I wasn't sure if it was going to be a kidney, a diseased donor, or a living donor, and the fact that my national kidney registry voucher donor, her decision to donate on my behalf paid off because they found my match. It's just so incredible. I it just it really leaves you speechless.”
Maria Valentina Almeida
“I was just completely in shock, and yeah, I was. It just made me respect just the the the the value of life so much more, and respect her as a person, knowing that she was struggling with something, and still being such a selfless human.”
Maria Valentina Almeida on Liz Bonis’s loss.
“t all started was that there was this woman, who was interested in giving me the gift of life. However, she wasn't a direct match for me, so she couldn't donate her kidney to me. She decided to continue on and find resources to still give the chance and put me higher up in the list for for that kidney match. And so that's how she found out about the National Kidney Registry.”
Maria Valentina Almeida
“I'm just so humbled by the the opportunity that I got to be part of that voucher program and to have someone willingly want to give to someone else in order to help me. Like you don't see that every day.”
Maria Valentina Almeida
“I know that this is just confirmation that there is a plan for me. That God definitely wants me to do something with my life, and you know, use my testimony to continue, you know, bringing hope to people, giving faith to people that are struggling with the same disease”
Maria Valentina Almeida
Resources:
Donatelifeky.org
https://getoffthelist.org/
https://www.networkforhope.org/
https://www.networkforhope.org/about-us/
https://www.networkforhope.org/stories-of-hope/
https://www.facebook.com/NetworkForHopeOPO
https://www.youtube.com/@NetworkforHope.
https://aopo.org/
RegisterMe.org/NetworkforHope
32 min
June 30EP 151: A New Lease on Life: Jim & Kim Wildenmann's Journey of Hope, Love, and an Intestine Transplant
Episode Title:
A New Lease on Life: Jim & Kim Wildenmann's Journey of Hope, Love, and an Intestine Transplant
Episode Description:
For years, Crohn's disease slowly took more and more from Jim Wildenmann—until his body could no longer tolerate any nutrition, not even liquids. With few options remaining, Jim underwent a rare intestine transplant at the Cleveland Clinic, one of only a handful of centers in the country performing this life-saving procedure
But Jim's story is also Kim's story.
As Jim's health declined, Kim became his unwavering source of strength—working full-time, caring for Jim, raising their two children, and keeping their family moving forward through uncertainty and fear.
In this heartfelt episode of This Thing Called Life Podcast, Jim and Kim share their journey through illness, resilience, faith, and the incredible gift of organ donation. They reflect on the generosity of Jim's donor and the donor's family, whose selfless decision gave Jim a second chance at life.
This is a powerful conversation about perseverance, unconditional love, gratitude, and finding hope even in life's darkest moments.

Episode Highlights
Show Notes
Host Andi Johnson welcomes Kim and Jim Wildenmann to discuss their path to receiving a rare small intestine transplant
The Medical Diagnosis: Jim discusses his struggle with Crohn's disease and poor motility, which meant food could not move through his digestive system.
The Impact on the Family: Kim explains the challenge of Jim being hospitalized over 40 times in three years, often during COVID, while she balanced a full-time job and raising two children.
The Last Resort: After surgeries and liquid nutrition failed, a transplant became Jim's only chance for survival.
Seeking Specialized Care: Jim was referred to the Cleveland Clinic, one of the few places performing rare small intestine transplants—only 15 to 20 are done there annually.
Getting "The Call": The couple recalls receiving a midnight phone call in June 2022 and rushing to Cleveland to receive the organ.
Reflecting on the Donor: While waiting for the surgery, the couple reflected on the donor's family, acknowledging that their hope for life was connected to another family's grief.
A Life Restored: Jim describes the joy of being home for Thanksgiving after missing three years of holidays and attending his son's senior high school activities.
Connecting with the Donor Family: Jim shares that he wrote a heartfelt letter to the donor's family to express his gratitude for the gift of life.
Success as a "Model Patient": Jim’s surgeon now uses his recovery photos to inspire others, showing him eating pizza and enjoying outdoor activities like hiking and ziplining.
Key Takeaways
The Rarity of Intestinal Transplants: Small intestine transplants are exceptionally rare, with specialized centers like the Cleveland Clinic performing only about 15 to 20 per year.
Resilience of the Support System: Chronic illness impacts the entire family; Kim had to manage her career and children while taking on a nursing role and coordinating family visits during Jim's long recovery.
The Profound Impact of Organ Donation: Beyond saving a life, organ donation restores the recipient's ability to participate in major life milestones, such as high school graduations and family holidays.
Inspiring Others: Jim uses his experience to encourage others facing similar medical struggles, including successfully talking a client's husband into a necessary surgery.
Universal Need for Donors: Over 100,000 people are currently waiting for life-saving organ gifts. One donor can save up to eight lives and heal 75 others through tissue donation.
Tweetable Quotes

"Nothing worked, and it was our last resort. We had to have a transplant or he would not have been able to live.”
Kim Wildenmann
"We're here waiting for life, and they're dealing with death... and it's really hard."
Kim Wildenmann
"Thank you is never enough, right? But... it gave you your life back."
Jim and Kim Wildenmann
"I bore the cross for [my family]. But yeah, a lot of people just say... I'm a walking miracle."
Jim Wildenmann
"Just being able to do things that normal people do... the little things we take for granted."
Jim Wildenmann

Resources:
Donatelifeky.org
https://getoffthelist.org/
https://www.networkforhope.org/
https://www.networkforhope.org/about-us/
https://www.networkforhope.org/stories-of-hope/
https://www.facebook.com/NetworkForHopeOPO
https://www.youtube.com/@NetworkforHope.
https://aopo.org/
RegisterMe.org/NetworkforHope
33 min
June 23 EP 150: María Almeida Comparte su Historia (Maria Almeyda shares her story)
This episode of TTCL will feature an interview with Luis Santiago from NFH on La Mega.
This monthly interview will inform the Spanish Community about Network For Hope and the incredible miracles that happen with Organ, Tissue, and Eye Donation.

Resources:
https://getoffthelist.org/
https://www.networkforhope.org/
https://www.networkforhope.org/about-us/
https://www.facebook.com/NetworkForHopeOPO
https://aopo.org/
RegisterMe.org/NetworkforHope
13 min
June 16EP 149: Connected by Hope: How Sister Kelli and Stephanie Bates Found Friendship Through Transplant
Episode Title: Connected by Hope: How Sister Keli and Stephanie Bates Found Friendship Through Transplant
Episode Description:
What happens when two people who have walked through illness, uncertainty, and waiting find each other on the other side of survival?
In this heartfelt episode of This Thing Called Life, host Andi Johnson welcomes Sister Keli and Stephanie Bates, whose connection began through transplant but became something much deeper—a sisterhood built on understanding, resilience, and hope. Together, they share their individual journeys through kidney disease, dialysis, setbacks, and ultimately transplantation.
Through moments of heartbreak, perseverance, and unexpected friendship, Stephanie and Sister Keli reflect on what it means to keep showing up, trust the process, and find purpose in giving back. Their stories are a powerful reminder that healing doesn’t happen alone—and sometimes the people who understand us best are the ones who have walked a similar road.
Episode Highlights
Host Andi Johnson welcomes Stephanie Bates and Sister Keli, two women whose lives became connected through their shared transplant journeys and commitment to supporting others.
Stephanie reflects on how her health journey began after a traumatic cesarean delivery in 1999 that caused damage to her kidney.
Years later, after noticing swelling in her leg, Stephanie sought medical care and was diagnosed with stage three kidney disease, beginning a long season of monitoring and treatment.
From 2003 to 2013, she managed her condition through regular nephrology care before eventually beginning dialysis as her disease progressed.
Stephanie shares the difficult but determined process of becoming transplant eligible, including being encouraged to lose weight in order to qualify.
Through dedication and support, she achieved her health goals and was officially added to the transplant list in 2018.
In 2019, Stephanie received her first kidney transplant, but unexpected complications during the COVID era eventually led her to undergo a second transplant in 2024.
Sister Keli shares her own experience of learning her kidneys had progressed into end-stage renal disease (ESRD) and initially struggling to fully accept the seriousness of the diagnosis.
She reflects on a turning point when conversations and encouragement from people around her helped her recognize the urgency of beginning treatment.
Sister Keli started with peritoneal dialysis, later transitioning to hemodialysis after complications and challenges with treatment.
Her journey included major life changes—including divorce and the eventual loss of a limb due to complications connected to inadequate dialysis treatment.
Despite those setbacks, she remained committed to her health and continued pursuing transplant eligibility.
Stephanie and Sister Keli describe meeting through a community connection event and immediately sensing a familiar understanding between them.
What started as an invitation to volunteer quickly developed into a meaningful friendship rooted in shared experience.
Both women speak openly about how transplant and dialysis journeys can feel isolating—and how finding someone who truly understands can change everything.
They reflect on the emotional complexity of receiving a transplant call: excitement, disbelief, fear, gratitude, and awareness that another family experienced loss.
The conversation highlights the emotional and physical realities of transplant while emphasizing the importance of hope, advocacy, and community support.
Stephanie and Sister Keli encourage listeners to stay committed to treatment plans, ask questions, lean on others, and remember that healing often happens in connection with community.
Key Takeaways:
1. Healing Is More Than Medical—It’s Relational
Recovery isn’t only about procedures and appointments. Community, connection, and shared understanding can become powerful parts of the healing journey.
2. Small Decisions Can Create New Possibilities
From staying committed to dialysis to making lifestyle changes for transplant eligibility, each step forward can open the door to life-changing opportunities.
3. Hope and Gratitude Can Coexist With Hardship
Transplant journeys carry both joy and grief. Receiving a second chance at life often comes with deep appreciation for donors and renewed purpose moving forward.
Tweetable Quotes
“You have to be in a certain BMI to receive a transplant. The doctor connected me with weight loss people, we got a weight loss plan together, and I dropped that weight. Then less than six months after I dropped that weight, I was listed.”
Stephanie Bates
“I feel like the Lord started sending people to talk to me. You get a call from somebody that you haven't heard from in a while, and they have a message for you. And so these people over the weekend started talking to me, and I said, "Oh no,” I said, "This is serious.” And so I reported, and they put me on peritoneal dialysis.”
Sister Keli
“This is why I'm here now, speaking out to people and letting them know, take your treatments seriously, don't cut off your treatments, don't skip your treatments, because the after effect of that? Sometimes you can't even come back from it.”
Sister Keli
“I'm like, something is familiar about her. And then I come to find her birthdays around my birthday, we just were familiar and able to link, but more than that, she understood where I had been, and I understood where she had been, and that was something I didn't have with any of my other friends.”
Sister Keli
“It (bond they share) creates a sense of like, “So there is someone who knows exactly what I'm going through.” Now our stories are not entirely the same. We've been through the same types of situations, the waiting process, “Is the kidney ever coming in?”, all the procedures, and all the testing. It feels daunting, it feels overwhelming.”
Stephanie Bates
Resources:
Donatelifeky.org
https://getoffthelist.org/
https://www.networkforhope.org/
https://www.networkforhope.org/about-us/
https://www.networkforhope.org/stories-of-hope/
https://www.facebook.com/NetworkForHopeOPO
https://www.youtube.com/@NetworkforHope.
https://aopo.org/
RegisterMe.org/NetworkforHope
45 min

About This Thing Called Life

From the publisher's feed

This Thing Called Life is a podcast dedicated to acts of giving, kindness, compassion, and humanity. Host Andi Johnson introduces you to powerful organ, tissue, and eye donation stories from…

Share This Thing Called Life

Sign up to save your podcasts

This Thing Called Life

This Thing Called Life episodes

About This Thing Called Life