In this episode, Jeremy sits down with Sarah Russo and John DeMarco 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 Sarah Russo (Hospital Partnership Liaison, Network for Hope) and John DeMarco (organ recipient and ambassador) join the conversation. 

01:14 Sarah 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 Sarah 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.