The Journey Continues

She was a decorated gymnast, a Division I scholarship athlete, and a hero. Cyndi and Frank Grobmeier of The Maddog Strong Foundation share the inspiring story of their daughter Maddie "Maddog" Grobmeier — whose choice to become an organ donor saved and improved countless lives. Now, her legacy lives on through a foundation educating the next generation of donation advocates. Learn more about the M...

One sunny morning. One bike ride. One unexpected goodbye… that would go on to save dozens of lives. This month on The Journey Continues,  Marion Shuck shares the deeply personal story of losing her husband Reggie and her decision now to become a living kidney donor for her brother. Plus the myths, the facts, and the truth about saying "yes."   WATCH: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZxlZTp5-KMw FOL...

Co-host Monica Fox underwent her second kidney transplant in October 2025 and this time her kidney came from her very own daughter Olivia! Sara Jane Charles interviews the mother-daughter duo and The Journey Continues unveils its new format on CAN TV.    WATCH: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLe3UaPyRXEnEbGamnjFuzNVCThZ4wv_YX   FOLLOW: @nkfillinois , @cantvchicago , @monicafox99 , @saryjane...

Nichole Jefferson’s life changed overnight when what she thought was the flu turned out to be kidney failure. In this episode, she shares her journey through dialysis, two kidney transplants, and the power of trusting her instincts when something didn’t feel right. Today, she is a national advocate using her experience to empower others to speak up, seek answers, and take an active role in their c...

Mike Crowley has spent his career leading nonprofit organizations, but at 60 years old, he made a deeply personal decision that went beyond leadership. After visiting dialysis clinics and witnessing firsthand the daily reality of kidney failure, he chose to become a living kidney donor to someone he had never met. In this episode, Mike shares what sparked that decision, what the donation process a...

A life-changing diagnosis set Dr. Patrick Gee on a path that reshaped his purpose. In this episode, Patrick reflects on his kidney journey, the gaps in health literacy that fueled his advocacy, and how faith, perseverance, and lived experience transformed him from a patient into a powerful voice for health equity. His story is a reminder that advocacy begins when you choose to speak, not just for...

Christmas is a perfect time to share a story of life, love, and gratitude. This season of giving invites reflection on the impact one person can have on so many lives. As we reshare this special episode on Organ Donation Awareness, we highlight the powerful story of organ donor hero Mario Cousins, as told by his mother, Emma O’Neal, and his grateful heart recipient, Pam Morris Walton. Their journe...

When Curtis Warfield was diagnosed with kidney disease, his life changed forever. After receiving a life-saving living donor transplant, he chose not to focus on fear but on purpose. In this episode, he shares his powerful path from peritoneal dialysis to becoming a kidney advocate, peer mentor, and voice for patient-centered care. Hear how Curtis is working to advance legislation, support other p...

In this special episode, host Monica Fox is interviewed by her daughter, Olivia Fox . Together, they share the emotional journey of Monica’s life-saving kidney transplant, reflect on the impact of this experience, and discuss the passion it sparked to help others facing kidney disease. Hear a story of hope, gratitude, and the power of family. This episode is sponsored by Fresenius Kidney Care.

Glenda Roberts has lived with kidney disease for decades, navigating the challenges of dialysis and transplant while carving a path as a national advocate. In this episode, she shares her journey from patient to leader, how she ensures patients’ voices are heard in research and healthcare, and practical advice for anyone looking to make an impact. Hear why Every Voice Counts in shaping the future...

Becoming a living kidney donor is one of the most selfless acts a person can take, but it’s also a deeply personal decision. What does it really take to become a living donor? We explore the journey of donation, from the tests and surgeries to the emotional support along the way. Hear how one choice can change lives, bust common myths, and how one decision can change two lives forever.

When her brother’s kidney failure became life-threatening, Monique Hoskins didn’t hesitate: she stepped up as a living kidney donor. In this episode of The Journey Continues, Monique shares her decision-making process, the challenges of surgery and recovery, and how this selfless act brought her family closer together. She also discusses her mission to advocate for living donation, raising awarene...

Mom Jen Strouse and her hero/son EJ have faced more health challenges in his 10 years than most families will face in a lifetime. Born with just one kidney that wasn't fully functioning, he eventually received a kidney transplant that unfortunately came with even more complications. Through it all, Jen has remained resilient and works hard to create some normalcy for her son.  Follow EJ's journey...

Diagnosed with juvenile insulin dependent diabetes at age four, Daja Weathers had no idea how her future would look. Although complications later in life led her to a kidney and pancreas transplant, advocating for organ donor awareness and transplantation has now become her mission. 

When Brooke Wozniak learned fellow volleyball mom Sue suffered from the same rare condition as her own mother, she offered Sue her kidney without hesitation. That spur-of-the-moment decision became a mission for Brooke – one she wanted to see all the way through.

Chicago Public Schools’ Deputy Chief Talent Officer Jerry Taylor’s college experience was turned upside down when he learned he was living with a rare kidney disease – one that would later claim the lives of his mother and beloved sister. Jerry’s years on dialysis, strong support system, and advocacy work help him inspire others who are facing similar struggles.

 Leah Howell, PhD is a not just a kidney recipient, she’s an advocate, kidney ambassador, and this year she’s a marathon runner.  She and her 21-year-old transplanted kidney Joey are training for the Chicago Marathon with Team Kidney to show the world just what transplant recipients are capable of.   Follow Leah’s journey on social media! You can find her on Facebook and Instagram

Bill Boscow and Carter Freeman first met on their college hockey team, but they never could’ve imagined what the next four decades of friendship would have in store.  When Carter discovered he was in need of a third life-saving kidney transplant, his teammate Bill stepped up and answered the call.

Moira Miller was a healthy, active 20-something when she learned her liver was failing and she would need a transplant.  Several decades later, she found herself in need of a combination liver and kidney transplant. Through the years, she’s found community with the organ transplant community and is living her life to the fullest in honor of her donor.  Connect with Moira on social media Instagram:...

Biologist Susan May felt a little back pain that she suspected might be a kidney stone. She never expected to learn a large tumor had been slowly growing inside her for the past decade.  

Rob Russell’s no stranger to hospital visits. Since his liver transplant as a baby, he’s experienced a kidney transplant, two open heart surgeries, and a stroke. But thanks to the family who chose to donate their child’s liver three decades ago, he’s accomplished many of his dreams – including attending his dream school, working in NASCAR, fatherhood -- and he’s not planning to stop dreaming any t...

Bettie Lewis is a busy mom and attorney who suddenly found herself caring for her big sister Monica when she crashed into dialysis.  She explores the challenges and the calling of being a family caregiver.   Learn more about Monica’s story here and here.

Debby Ramsey was diagnosed with kidney disease as a child and recently celebrated her 40th kidney transplant anniversary! Through the years, her diagnosis hasn’t stopped her from pursuing her dreams – including marriage, motherhood, coaching, singing, advocating for organ donation, and competing in the annual Transplant Games with Team Illinois. For more information about the Transplant Games, vis...

A teeny tiny scratch during a middle school softball game led to Angelina Precilio needing a cornea transplant in order to save her eyesight. Now as an adult, she and her family are active volunteers and advocates for Eversight, raising awareness for eye, organ, and tissue donation.   Learn more about Eversight at eversightvision.org

Lisa Dodson has devoted her career to encouraging people to say yes to organ donation. Through a partnership with the Illinois High School Association, she’s empowering 16 and 17 year olds to make their own decisions about organ donation through the Drive for Life Act.  In her personal life, Lisa is a proud donor wife.   Learn more about the Drive for Life and Say Yes campaign with the Illinois Hi...