Ochsner Transplant Institute

07/24/2025

Big news in liver health! 🩺 Dr. George Therapondos, a transplant hepatologist and liver transplant surgeon at Ochsner Medical Center – New Orleans, is helping lead the way in treating advanced liver disease. His latest research shares real-world insights on the first FDA-approved treatment for a type of liver disease.

The study highlights the medication’s safety and effectiveness, while also addressing the challenges patients face with access and insurance. It’s an exciting step forward for those living with liver disease! 💙 Read more here: https://ow.ly/lGbv50WuK5H

Learn more about Dr. Therapondos here: https://ow.ly/AeUz50WuK7G

Metabolic dysfunction–associated steatohepatitis (MASH) is a progressive liver disease often leading to cirrhosis. Resmetirom is the first Food and Dr…

07/22/2025

When Amber M. began attending transplant appointments with her cousin and godfather, Ryan, she didn’t realize she was about to become part of something life changing.

“I actually didn’t know much about living donation and its possibilities,” she said. “When I heard it was an option, I immediately knew I wanted to go through testing in hopes of being a match.”

Ryan has always been a constant in Amber’s life, “Family is important to me,” she said. “It was an easy decision to help someone so special to me in need.” (Amber is pictured above with Ryan, her cousin and godfather.)

She watched with heartache as Ryan, once an active outdoorsman, was sidelined by kidney failure. But that heartbreak soon turned to hope. When she got the call that she was a perfect match, she was overjoyed.

Amber describes the donation process as straightforward and empowering. “Physically, it was just bloodwork, some workups and a few appointments,” she said. “Emotionally, I felt prepared. The (Ochsner) transplant team really did a great job explaining everything to me. I went into the surgery ready and supported. The entire process was not difficult and really not time consuming either.”

Amber says one of the most rewarding parts of this journey has been watching Ryan regain his energy and return to the outdoor activities he loves. “It’s invaluable,” she said. “It’s really remarkable that one kidney donation can change a person’s life so drastically. I love seeing him smile again.”

Reflecting on the support she received from the Ochsner transplant team, Amber couldn’t be more grateful. “They were amazing! Each person, in every discipline that I met, not only preop, but post op also. They were caring, informative, truly loved doing their jobs. Every phone call or email was answered quickly.”

To others considering living donation, Amber offers this advice: “Don’t hesitate trying to become a donor. You can back out at ANY time in the process. But it’s truly an amazing thing to do. Get informed and ask questions, the team at Ochsner really does a great job coordinating and explaining every detail of the process.”

“I’d do the donation over in a heartbeat,” she said. “No regrets.”

Thank you, Amber, for sharing your incredible story and for being a shining example of the power of living donation. Amber is pictured above with Ryan.

Learn more about Ochsner's living kidney donation program here: https://www.ochsner.org/services/kidney-and-kidney-pancreas-transplants/living-donor-kidney-program/

07/17/2025

Angie C. remembers her son, Cameron C., whose legacy continues through organ, eye and tissue donation. Born on Christmas day, Cam was known for his vibrant spirit, passion for competitive cheer and endless generosity. Always there for friends in need, Cam’s kindness touched countless lives. Through his gift, he saved six lives through organ donation and impacted 64 others through eye, tissue and bone donation. 💙

In this Q&A, Angie shares memories of Cam, his inspiring decision to donate and the incredible legacy he left behind. His selflessness continues to make an impact—inspiring Angie to register as a living donor herself.

One decision can change countless lives. Learn more about organ donation here: https://ow.ly/yttH50Wnl6m💚

07/15/2025

AD: 🚭💡 Did you know that smoking doesn’t just harm your lungs but also your skin? It can lead to wrinkles, dark spots and premature aging by breaking down collagen and elastin.

But there’s good news: Quitting smoking can help improve your skin and prevent further damage! 🌟

👉 Want to learn more? Check out the full breakdown here: https://blog.ochsner.org/articles/top-reasons-why-smoking-causes-wrinkles-and-affects-the-skin/

07/15/2025

Coming soon!

Randy Rossignol, MD, a trusted expert in internal medicine, will join Ochsner Health Center - Lake Terrace this August.

Specializing in adult primary and preventative care, Dr. Rossignol will help his patients take control of their health with care they can count on.

Call us at (504) 846-9646 to learn more or schedule an appointment.

07/11/2025

Enter to win the ultimate New Orleans Saints training camp experience!

This is your chance to get up close and be part of the action with an exclusive Saints experience that puts you right at the heart of it all! Don’t miss your chance to win lunch with New Orleans Saints Coach Kellen Moore in a sweepstakes presented by Ochsner Health!

Enter now: https://ow.ly/JsPg50Woysm

07/11/2025

Meet Ray'Mon Lewis, a dedicated registered nurse at Ochsner Medical Center - New Orleans. During Ray'Mon’s final year of nursing school at Southern University in Baton Rouge, he lost his ability to walk after a near-fatal car accident. He said he found strength in family, friends and the SU School of Nursing administration.

The Ochsner Baton Rouge team also played a pivotal role in Ray'Mon's pursuit of his dream. The team dedicated itself to creating the necessary space and opportunities for Ray'Mon to fully participate in his essential clinicals as a student in a wheelchair. This commitment ensured he received the hands-on experience vital for his nursing education. The adaptations made and the support provided were a clear reflection of Ochsner's commitment to inclusivity and its belief in every individual's potential.

Today, Ray'Mon is a full-time, vital member of the nursing team at Ochsner Medical Center - New Orleans. Thank you, Ray’Mon, for everything you do to support our patients and community!

A determined Southern University nursing student inspires patients with his resilience

07/10/2025

Bringing your newborn home is a beautiful moment, but it can be also filled with questions and adjustments. For first-time mom Elisa, Ochsner Baptist’s Family Connects program was a lifeline of support after welcoming her son, Cooper, into the world.

The Family Connects program is a partnership between Ochsner Baptist and the New Orleans Health Department. This program offers free in-home nurse visits to new families, providing essential care and guidance during those early weeks.

Elisa delivered Cooper on Sept. 22, 2024, under the care of OB/GYN Melissa Jordan, MD. Reflecting on her experience, Elisa said, “The Ochsner Baptist team was tremendous from the first ultrasound to leaving the hospital. They helped me understand perspective, feel seen and normal, and I always felt at ease to ask them truly anything.”

While at the hospital, Elisa opted into the Family Connects program and was paired with registered nurse Jasmine Clayborne. Jasmine’s in-home visits provided not only expert care for Cooper but also much-needed support for Elisa. Elisa said, “My entire experience of carrying, delivering, and caring for Cooper was made exceptional by Ochsner. But nurse Jasmine took it to the next level because in addition to helping us better understand and better care for Coop, she helped me to do so for myself too.”

“Family Connects coming to my home made sure I took care of myself, not just my baby. Nurse Jasmine helped me feel like a priority. She took the shame out of asking for help and helped me find the light during postpartum challenges.”

Elisa credits Jasmine with transforming her postpartum experience: “She’s not only responsible for Cooper’s blossoming health in our fourth trimester but also my physical and mental health too. Angels exist on this side of heaven, and Nurse Jasmine, a founder of this program, is one of them.”

In the photo gallery, Cooper is pictured with nurse Jasmine during one of the home visits.

Since its launch at Ochsner Baptist last year on July 9, 2024, Family Connects has:
💙 Supported 430 families
💙 Connected 198 families to community resources

Elisa’s advice to new parents considering the program: “Yes is the answer. Answer yes.”

Learn more about how Family Connects can support you and your newborn: https://nola.gov/health-department/family-connects/

Alongside Nurse Jasmine, Baylie Williams and Marissa Skipwith are compassionate and dedicated registered nurses who play a vital role in the Ochsner Baptist Family Connects program, providing exceptional care and support to our patients and community.

07/09/2025

Is your disaster kit ready for hurricane season? Whitney Hardy, MD, breaks down exactly what you need to know about building a disaster supply kit for 2025.

A disaster supply kit is your first step to feeling prepared and keeping your family safe in an emergency. Get the full checklist here and start preparing today:

Learn how to build a disaster supply kit with essentials like water, food and first aid supplies. Be prepared for any emergency with these tips.

07/09/2025

Ochsner Health is leading robotic surgery with trusted experience. Across the system, our teams have performed more than 60,000 minimally invasive robot-assisted surgeries.

With the recent addition of the advanced Intuitive da Vinci 5 surgical system, we continue to redefine what’s possible in minimally invasive care. These systems are transforming surgeries in orthopedics, urology, gynecology, thoracic and general procedures, pushing the boundaries of precision, efficiency and patient care results.

Using the da Vinci system, a surgeon uses an advanced set of instruments to perform robotic-assisted surgery. The surgeon performs the procedure – not a robot. Da Vinci translates the surgeon’s hand movements in real time to perform the procedure.

Ochsner Medical Center - New Orleans and Ochsner Medical Center - Baton Rouge were the first hospitals in Louisiana to offer this next generation of surgical technology. This achievement reflects our dedication to innovation and unwavering commitment to empowering our patients and communities with the most advanced healthcare options.

Together, with our care teams, we’re shaping the future of medicine.

Learn more about robotic surgery at Ochsner Health here: https://ow.ly/jwcN50Wn3jI.

07/07/2025

🧴☀️ Transplant recipients: Did you know your skin may need extra protection?

After an organ transplant, anti-rejection medications can increase your risk of developing skin cancer - even years later. But don’t worry, there are simple, effective steps you can take to stay safe.

🧢 Learn why routine skin checks, sun protection and dermatologist visits matter more than ever and how to protect your health long-term here:

Skin cancer can affect anyone regardless of gender, race or age, but organ transplant recipients are at much greater risk.

07/07/2025

Meet Keelin Nares, an X-ray technologist and patient access representative at Ochsner Urgent Care & Occupational Health - Metairie.

Originally from upstate New York, Keelin moved to New Orleans and began her career at Ochsner Baptist as an X-ray technologist. She quickly fell in love with her work, her team and the vibrant Louisiana culture. “At that point, I felt like New Orleans was my home and accepted a full-time position with Ochsner,” Keelin shared.

Today, Keelin brings that same passion and dedication to her role in Metairie. Keelin said she loves the variety and unpredictability of urgent care. “Every day is different; you learn something new every day. You never know who or what is walking through the door, and that’s the magical part about it,” she said.

Keelin finds inspiration from her dad. “He passed away about three years ago, and it’s something I bring to work every day. I strive to treat my patients how I want my family to be treated. You never know what others are going through, so kindness and patience matter.”

For anyone considering a healthcare career, Keelin offers words of encouragement and advice: “Do it! There are so many different pathways and avenues to explore in healthcare. Don’t be afraid to shadow different departments and ask questions!”

Keelin, thank you for bringing your warmth and expertise to everything you do. Louisiana is lucky to have you!

Learn more about Ochsner Urgent Care & Occupational Health services and find a clinic near you here: https://ow.ly/e0ge50WkswO.

Ochsner urgent care clinics provide immediate care with convenient walk-in services across Louisiana and Mississippi, including New Orleans, Baton Rouge and Covington.

07/04/2025

Ochsner Urgent Care is here for you on the Fourth of July! Today is a time for fun, family and celebration, but accidents can happen.

Whether it’s a minor burn from fireworks, a slip by the pool or a grilling mishap, we are ready to help!

Our clinics are open regular hours, so you can enjoy peace of mind knowing care is close by if you need it. 💙

Find your nearest location at https://ow.ly/AOKM50WjcY9.
Wishing you a safe and happy Independence Day!

07/04/2025

When shooting fireworks, it’s important to be responsible. Blake Denley, MD, emergency medicine physician at Ochsner, shares his top safety tips to keep your holiday injury-free:

🎉 Buy only from authorized, reputable dealers.
🎉 Be prepared: Wear safety glasses, avoid loose clothing and keep a bucket of water or fire extinguisher nearby.
🎉 Set a clear boundary line for kids and make sure they stay behind it.
🎉 Fireworks marketed for kids are not kid-friendly. Even sparklers can cause accidents.

Better yet, find a local fireworks show and enjoy the view without the risk!

Watch the full segment here: https://ow.ly/uNxv50Wksvb

If an accident happens, Ochsner’s emergency departments are ready 24/7: https://ow.ly/t0p850Wksva

Have a safe and sparkling Fourth of July!

07/03/2025

In preparation for the Fourth of July, Olawunmi Akinsilo, MD, medical director of occupational health, shares her expert tips on how to celebrate safely and responsibly:

🎆 Protect your vision: Wear safety goggles when handling fireworks.
🎆 Supervise sparklers: These can burn at high temperatures, so keep them in trusted hands to prevent burns and injuries.
🎆 Stay safe at home: Light fireworks far from your house and never indoors.
🎆 Dispose properly: If something doesn’t ignite, soak it with in before discarding.

For the safest experience, Dr. Akinsilo recommends enjoying the show put on by professionals.

If accidents do happen, our urgent cares are operating under regular hours on the Fourth of July. You can find a location here: https://ow.ly/pyrM50Wkssi

See the rest of the tips here: https://ow.ly/3voj50Wkssh

Dr. Olawunmi Akinsilo, Medical Director of Occupational Medicine with Ochsner Health, joins us with tips to help keep you safe this 4th of July.

07/03/2025

As you fire up the grill this Independence Day, make sure safety is on the menu! Joshua Vallelungo, MD, and Jayesh Madrecha, DO, shares their five top tips for a fun and accident-free cookout.

From preventing burns and avoiding food contamination to staying hydrated in the summer heat, these expert-approved precautions will help you become a grill master! https://ow.ly/b1GT50Wje0U

If you or someone else needs medical care after a grilling injury, find the nearest urgent care location here: https://ow.ly/vQiR50Wje0T

Master the art of barbecuing with essential grill safety tips. Learn how to prevent burns, avoid food contamination and enjoy your summer cookouts safely.

07/02/2025

For years, Courtney R.’s father-in-law battled polycystic kidney disease, relying on dialysis while waiting and hoping for a kidney transplant. Last summer, Courtney felt a calling she couldn’t ignore.

No stranger to giving, Courtney had previously donated blood, plasma, and even her hair to children undergoing cancer treatment. But organ donation felt like a much bigger step. Still, she moved forward, beginning her evaluation process online and completing her initial lab work. Everything seemed to align until a medical hurdle arose. Her father-in-law had developed antibodies to her blood, making a direct donation unsafe.

That’s when Courtney learned about the Paired Exchange Kidney Donation Program at Ochsner. Through this program, even if you aren’t a direct match for your intended recipient, you can still help them receive a transplant by donating your kidney to another patient in need. In return, your intended recipient receives a kidney from another donor in the exchange.

“Donating an organ in general is a big decision and then donating to someone you don’t know is even harder,” she said. After weeks of prayer and thoughtful discussion, Courtney officially entered the paired exchange program. What happened next was nothing short of extraordinary: matches were found for both Courtney and her father-in-law almost immediately.

In February, her father-in-law received his life-saving transplant. The following month, Courtney underwent her own surgery, donating her kidney to an 18-month-old child she’s never met but will be forever connected to.

Reflecting on the journey, Courtney says, “While I was initially disappointed that I couldn’t directly donate to my father-in-law, by participating in the paired exchange I had the ability to not only save his life, but a little child’s life as well. I am so thankful for everyone involved in this process and for the paired exchange for making this possible. I never imaged I would donate an organ one day, and now I can’t imagine it any other way.”

Despite living in another state, Courtney says her experience with the Ochsner transplant team stood out from the start. “We live in another state, and I can truly say the Ochsner team is top notch. I am a board-certified physician assistant and was very impressed with the care I received,” she said.

Her message to others considering living donation is simple but powerful: “Share the spare and give as freely as you have received.”

Thank you, Courtney, for sharing your story with us! 💙

To learn more about kidney transplants at Ochsner and the Paired Kidney Exchange Program, please visit: https://ow.ly/GgWm50Wjg94.

If you need a kidney or kidney-pancreas transplant, trust the expertise of Ochsner Health for the best transplant results.

06/20/2025

Big news—and just the beginning! ✨

Ochsner Health is honored to announce a transformational gift from the Lipsey Family Foundation to the Ochsner Transplant Institute. 💙💚 Ochsner Philanthropy

This generous investment is powering next-generation organ preservation technology while also extending transplant viability, improving outcomes and saving lives across the entire Gulf South. This is a huge step forward in transplant care...and there’s more to come! This is just the beginning of a bold vision for the future of the Ochsner Transplant Institute.

Thank you to the Lipsey family for turning possibility into progress! Stay tuned - the future is bright! 💙

If you’d like to help shape the future of transplant care, consider making a gift to the Ochsner Transplant Institute. Your support can make a lasting impact by extending lives and advancing innovation. https://ow.ly/Jhgi50Weaf0

06/18/2025

🌟 Meet Hilary Frabbiele, RN, a member of our transplant surgical team at Ochsner! 🌟

Originally from Bridgeport, Illinois, Hilary has been proudly calling Covington, Louisiana, home for over 20 years. When she’s not in the operating room, Hilary enjoys spending quality time with her family and her two beloved dogs. And when she needs a little magic, you’ll find her at her happy place–Disney parks in Orlando! 🎢

Hilary’s path to transplant medicine began during nursing school when she started scrubbing into kidney transplants on weekends. “It filled a hole in my heart I didn’t know was there,” she shares. Guided by a special mentor who encouraged her passion for transplants, Hilary knew she had found her life’s calling. Over a decade later, after nine years as a certified surgical technologist and now almost two years as a registered nurse, Hilary continues to bring her expertise, precision and compassion to every surgery she assists.

Her role is vital to every transplant procedure. From making sure the operating room is ready with the right equipment and supplies to educating patients before surgery, Hilary is the person who ensures everything runs smoothly. “The opportunity to save lives and work with the most amazing nurses, scrub techs, CRNAs and top-notch surgeons is a privilege,” she says.

When asked what’s most rewarding about her job, Hilary lights up. “It’s seeing someone receive the gift of life. There’s nothing else like it.” She’s also passionate about raising awareness for organ donation. “I wish more people knew about the life-saving value of being a living donor,” she explains. “A living donor can give one of their kidneys or part of their liver and be part of giving someone the ultimate gift–a second chance at life.”

Hilary, thank you for your unwavering dedication and the incredible impact on our patients and their families!

Learn more about organ donation at Ochsner here: www.ochsner.org/save9

05/27/2025

🏃‍♂️💙 Dr. David Bruce, abdominal transplant surgeon at Ochsner Health, recently completed his 3rd Boston Marathon running in support of the American Liver Foundation (ALF). This marked his fifth marathon for ALF and his 12th marathon overall!

This year’s race was especially meaningful as Dr. Bruce ran the final 15 miles alongside Keith T., a fellow ALF team member and liver transplant recipient, along with Keith’s twin daughters and their friend, a former living liver donor. The group crossed the finish line hand-in-hand in one of the most emotional moments of the race.

Dr. Bruce has been a passionate advocate for liver health and organ donation since the 1980s, when liver transplantation was still a new frontier. Over the years, he’s combined his love of running with his dedication to raising awareness about the life-changing impact of transplant care.

He’s also the creator of the “smiling liver with tennis shoes” plushie, which he’s gifted to pediatric transplant patients as a symbol of hope and strength.

“Running for the American Liver Foundation allows me to turn something I love into something that gives back,” Dr. Bruce shared. “It’s more than a hobby - it’s a way to raise awareness for the patients and families we serve every day.”

We’re proud to spotlight Dr. Bruce for his incredible commitment to patients, both in the operating room and on the racecourse. 🧡 Learn more about Dr. Bruce here: https://ow.ly/wMZH50VWH18

05/22/2025

We’re proud to share that Parkway Bakery and Tavern has raised and donated an incredible $15,000 to the Gregory Smith Transplant Fund at the Ochsner Transplant Institute, thanks to their Zest for Life fundraiser that happened throughout April! 💙💚 Every shrimp po’boy and Frozen Porch Swing sold has helped support so many patients in need of life-saving organ transplants.

Many patients rely on multi-organ transplant care and continued support is critical. The Gregory Smith Fund helps ease the financial burden on patients and families throughout their transplant journey, from medications to housing, travel and so much more. Parkway has consistently shown what the community can do, and we invite you to be part of it.

Whether it's spreading the word or donating directly, your support to the Ochsner Transplant Institute helps save lives! Learn more and make a gift today by clicking here: https://giving.ochsner.org/site/Donation2?1580.donation=form1&df_id=1580&mfc_pref=T&set.SingleDesignee=1077 Thank you again, Parkway, and to every person who showed up to support Zest for Life. Together, we are making a difference in our community!

05/19/2025

We are proud to announce that the Ochsner Kidney Transplant Program has earned ELITE status from INTERLINK COE Networks & Programs! 🌟

This prestigious recognition is awarded to programs that demonstrate superior results and exceptional care across a wide range of validated metrics. Achieving elite status is a testament to the extraordinary dedication, collaboration and expertise of our transplant team, who work tirelessly to provide life-changing care to patients.

“Reaching ELITE Status is only possible because of the dedication of each member of our care team. The kidney transplant program and the Ochsner Transplant Institute only succeed in such a complex field as transplant when an entire team works in unison to deliver high-quality care. We are honored to receive this recognition and to be trusted to care for our patients during the most vulnerable time of their lives,” said Ari Cohen, MD, MD, MBA, FRCSC, FACS, director, Ochsner Transplant Institute.

Learn more about the designation: https://ow.ly/Xn1750VUbvr.

💙 Join us in celebrating this achievement and learn more about the Ochsner Kidney Transplant Program here: https://ow.ly/SHlR50VUbvu.

05/14/2025

Curious about how living liver donation works? Dr. John Seal, liver and kidney transplant surgeon at Ochsner Medical Center – New Orleans, breaks down the step-by-step process of living donor liver surgery - from how we safely remove a portion of the donor’s liver to how both livers regenerate after transplant.

It’s a complex, life-saving procedure that gives hope to patients in need. 💛 Watch the full video here: https://ow.ly/tXG450VCrie

Learn more about Ochsner’s Living Liver Donor Program: https://ow.ly/rzeT50VCrhu

05/12/2025

Meet Zoe Brauner, RN, a post-kidney transplant coordinator at Ochsner Medical Center - New Orleans. 💙

Zoe plays an essential role in coordinating the care of patients after their kidney transplants, serving as their key point of contact within the transplant care team. She ensures her patients are well-informed about their care plans, monitors for potential complications and works tirelessly to safeguard the success of their transplanted organs. Her role is instrumental in helping patients regain their independence and enjoy life beyond dialysis.

Zoe’s passion for transplant nursing began during a clinic rotation in nursing school, where she fell in love with the sense of renewal and second chances this field offers. For the past 13 years, she’s been committed to this life-changing work, cherishing moments as patients heal and thrive post-transplant.

Inspired by the care and compassion shown to her during a brief hospitalization as a young adult, Zoe became a nurse to be a source of empathy and support for others. Her goal is to inspire positive change by fostering understanding, patience, and care for both patients and her fellow healthcare teammates.

Zoe also shares a special bond with a few colleagues she’s worked alongside throughout her career. Together, they’ve grown from “baby nurses” into confident, skilled professionals, motivating one another to be their best every step of the way.

Thank you, Zoe, for your commitment to improving the lives of your patients and peers! Learn more about supporting nurses through the Nursing Empowerment Fund, please visit https://ow.ly/sniZ50VN2Ga.