Ochsner Transplant Institute

10/04/2025

Meet Griffin and Dixon, a whippet and greyhound, spreading joy through the Visiting Pet Program with their humans, Michael Soileau and Alison Soileau, system vice president for patient experience and service excellence at Ochsner Health. 🐶

They bring smiles and comfort everywhere, from emergency rooms to our children’s hospital, visiting both patients and employees alike. While on the job, Griffin and Dixon also wear ID badges — just like their humans — so you know they’re ready to be petted!

Their enthusiasm is obvious; they jump with excitement the moment they see their humans put on their Visiting Pet Program logo shirts, ready for another day of lifting spirits. 🐾

Getting into pet therapy isn’t easy, as certification takes over a year. As Michael and Alison emphasize, the dog’s happiness comes first. They must love their job to truly shine.

Thinking about joining a pet therapy program? Learn more about it here: https://ow.ly/HLFv50X6hS1

https://ow.ly/kHnJ50X6hT8

For over two decades, Alison and Michael Soileau have dedicated their time and hearts to giving back. As part of the Visiting Pet Program, they and their dogs have volunteered to provide emotional support to countless people, showing firsthand the incredible impact therapy dogs can have on those in....

10/04/2025

We recently celebrated the launch of Lifesaver 6, the newest addition to our fleet of bloodmobiles! 🚐

The Ochsner Blood Bank continues to grow to meet the ongoing need for blood in our community. But we can’t do it alone and we rely on local blood drives to make a difference.

You can host a blood drive at your organization, school, business or community event. Wherever there are people ready to donate, we’ll bring Lifesaver 6 or one of our other bloodmobiles to you!

Sign up to host a blood drive or learn more: https://ow.ly/4P8G50X5iPE

10/03/2025

Ochsner Health is delighted to be a sponsor of Gretna Fest 🎉 Friday–Sunday (Oct. 3-5). Need medical care? Ochsner’s first aid tent ⛑️ is located near the ferry landing.📍 And if you’re looking for healthy fest food 🥗, look for the Ochsner Eat Fit seal at select vendors in the Gretna Fest Food Court 🍴.

Gretna Fest’s new Kids Activity Center by Playful Pelican and presented by Ochsner Children’s will be located inside the ferry landing on Saturday and Sunday, Oct. 4 and 5. Kids can enjoy giveaways, face painting 🎨, dinosaur activities 🦖, and opportunities to meet authors and artists.🖌️

10/02/2025

Looking for a primary care doctor in the New Orleans area? Look no further.

Meet Cornelius Jamison, MD, a primary care physician and health researcher at the Ochsner Center for Primary Care & Wellness in New Orleans, who provides comprehensive care for adults.

His clinical expertise is complemented by his research, which focuses on advancing sexual health equality and accessibility by finding new ways to prevent sexually transmitted infections, especially among Black teens and young adults.

At Ochsner, Dr. Jamison is looking forward to making a real difference in our community.

Learn more or schedule your appointment today: https://ow.ly/gkOw50X4WUz

10/01/2025

Just 13 days after she joined Ochsner Health as a security officer, Kimberly H. was diagnosed with Stage 3 triple negative breast cancer — one of the most aggressive forms of the disease.

Her journey took a hopeful turn at Ochsner MD Anderson Cancer Center.

"I don't know if y'all have ever heard that saying, 'The Lord put you at the right place at the right time,'" Kimberly said. "Well, Ochsner had just started a study for triple negative breast cancer patients."

Under the expert care of hematologist oncologist Lingling Du, MD, Kimberly participated in a groundbreaking clinical trial that combined chemotherapy with advanced immunotherapy. This innovative treatment played a key role in her remarkable journey from diagnosis to becoming cancer-free.

Learn more about Ochsner MD Anderson Cancer Center at https://www.ochsner.org/services/cancer-care/cancer-services/

10/01/2025

Kim N. lived a full and busy life as a fitness instructor, realtor, full-time employee, mom, grandmother and dog mom. But in August 2023, everything changed.

“Life took a small detour on Aug. 22, 2023, when I was admitted for kidney failure and diagnosed with stage 4 chronic kidney disease,” Kim said. “It was hard to process because I felt ‘fine.’”

Determined to keep moving forward, Kim continued teaching classes, working and making lifestyle changes. “But the harsh reality was that no matter what I did, the progression of the disease carried on,” she said.

In July 2024, Kim began the transplant process at the Ochsner Transplant Institute, where she learned about the option of living donation. Encouraged to share her story on social media, she reluctantly posted and was overwhelmed by the response.

“A week or so later, I made the post, and much to my very humbling surprise, it went basically viral! Talk about feeling loved!” Kim said. “To my understanding, there were hundreds of submissions.”

In September, Kim received the call: she had a living donor. She later learned her donor was Mandy M. “My lifesaver! A perfect match for me! To say I am blessed is an absolute understatement, and I have a new lifelong friend,” Kim said.

Kim is pictured below with her donor, Mandy M., who made this life-changing gift possible.

Kim underwent a robotic kidney transplant at Ochsner, becoming the second laparoscopic transplant recipient at the hospital. “One small delay, and we were off—and it went off without a hitch! Our kidney got right to work and is bringing in all-star numbers!” she said.

Kim never needed dialysis and now lives with a deep sense of gratitude. “I am full of gratitude daily, aware that this is nothing short of a miracle,” she said.

She credits her care team for supporting her every step of the way. “The care I received at home with Dr. Ashkar was absolutely amazing,” Kim said. “And as for Ochsner’s New Orleans Main Campus and my transplant team, the knowledge, care, compassion, and dedication have been phenomenal!”

Kim’s message to potential donors is simple and powerful:
“Do it! It is life-changing for everyone involved—even people you do not know!”

Thank you, Kim, for sharing your incredible journey and reminding us of the life-changing power of living donation.

Learn more about living kidney transplants at Ochsner and how you can make a difference: https://ow.ly/hZ1T50X55YY

The living donor kidney program connects potential donors to those in need of a kidney. Learn more about our potentially lifesaving program.

10/01/2025

Stay ahead of flu season with insights from Dr. Mary Hoang! Learn about the causes, symptoms and prevention tips to protect yourself and your loved ones.

Learn how to identify flu symptoms, prevent the flu and protect your health this flu season with these expert prevention tips.

09/29/2025

Meet Tamara Fryer, a physical therapist with over 25 years of experience, who enjoys helping people with chronic pain restore mobility, build strength, and improve quality of life.

Her expertise led to the creation of impactful programs like the Healthy Back Program, supporting those with persistent back and neck pain.

“This program focuses not only on relieving discomfort but also on empowering participants with tools and strategies for long-term well-being,” she said.

Tamara helped bring Empowered Relief, a Stanford-accredited cognitive therapy tool, to greater New Orleans.

“This evidence-based program provides practical strategies to help patients manage pain and improve their overall quality of life,” she said.

Outside work, Tamara enjoys hiking, running, birdwatching and spending time with friends and family. These activities highlight her love for movement and connection.

Tamara’s approach ensures her patients receive guidance to return to the activities they love most.

This Pain Awareness Month, we honor the great providers, like Tamara, who make a difference every day. Thank you, Tamara, for all you do!

Learn more about Tamara Fryer here: https://ow.ly/vyjr50X2tcc

09/25/2025

Meet Stephen Schmidt, a nurse in our Emergency Department and recipient of September’s STEM Ambassador of the Month honor. 🎉 Even after long night shifts, he volunteers his mornings to support K-12 students, leading hands-on activities that help them explore the musculoskeletal system.

In just over a year at Ochsner, Stephen has already volunteered at six events, making a real difference in our community.

What drives him? Stephen says his favorite part is “the look of excitement and enthusiasm I see on so many of the children’s faces.” He believes these experiences can “help younger generations learn about careers they may know nothing about or have even considered.”

Thank you, Stephen, for your commitment to inspiring the next generation of health care leaders and supporting Ochsner Education Outreach’s mission. 🌟 Please join us in congratulating Stephen for his contributions!

09/23/2025

Smiles, sunshine, and the spirit of aloha! 🌺🌊 Our Golden Opportunity members experienced unforgettable moments on the recent Hawaii cruise.

The Golden Opportunity program, offered by Ochsner Health, is designed for people 50 and older. It helps members stay healthy, active and independent.

Together, members explored the history of Pearl Harbor, celebrated at luaus, and enjoyed stunning waterfalls and volcanic landscapes, as well as spotting dolphins.🐬🌋

If you’re ready for life’s next great adventure, we invite you to learn more about the Golden Opportunity program: https://ow.ly/Fwef50X0hy0

09/23/2025

Meet Amy Orgeron, NP, a compassionate healthcare provider on our pain medicine team at Ochsner Health Center - Baptist Napoleon Medical Plaza who finds joy in helping patients overcome their pain.

“It sounds simple, but I love helping people feel better! I enjoy showing people that they can overcome pain and embrace their lives again,” Amy said.

Amy’s career path was inspired by her own family’s struggles with chronic pain. She chose this field to make a difference, and her dedication shines through in her patient-centered approach.

“The most rewarding part is when a patient tells me that I have listened and made a difference. Hearing ‘Thank you’ is such a gift!” she said.

Amy is passionate about the holistic side of pain management, which she practices through the Functional Restoration Program and Empowered Relief Program.

“I believe in looking at the whole person. Pain impacts both our physical and mental health, and both areas need to be addressed at the same time. We also work on all the daily impacts of health: diet, sleep and exercise,” she said.

Her work in these programs has transformed lives.

“I have seen both Functional Restoration Program and Empowered Relief do great things for patients! They are empowered to strive through pain. I have seen patients lose significant weight, go back to work and have better relationships. Empowered Relief has so much research behind it that shows what a difference it can make. I have personally used these behavioral strategies to manage stress with benefit!”

This Pain Awareness Month, we honor our providers, like Amy, who make a difference every day. Thank you, Amy, for all you do!

Learn more about Amy Orgeron here: https://ow.ly/inYk50WUaY9

09/22/2025

This week, we’re celebrating our advanced practice providers (APPs) at Ochsner during National APP Week! 🎉

To our nearly 1,800 APPs, including certified nurse midwives, nurse anesthetists, clinical nurse specialists, nurse practitioners and physician assistants, thank you for the care, compassion and expertise you bring to our patients. 💙

You are the heart of what we do, and we’re so grateful for you. Drop a comment below to help us show some love for our APPs! 🎊

09/22/2025

It's Sep. 22, the first day of fall ... even if it doesn't feel like it! 🍂 This recipe will help you get in an autumn frame of mind. Plus, it's delicious and nutritious!

Harvest Chicken Casserole Recipe makes a great fall dinner.

09/18/2025

The Ochsner Transplant Institute is at the forefront of advanced transplant care, delivering groundbreaking solutions to enhance patient outcomes.

Through robotic-assisted kidney transplantation, our team harnesses the power of minimally invasive technology, offering greater precision, smaller incisions and a faster recovery. This advanced approach helps reduce blood loss, lowers the risk of complications, and makes the transplant experience safer and less demanding for eligible patients.

As surgical director of kidney transplant, Dr. Dennis Sonnier is dedicated to helping patients achieve renewed health through innovation and expertise.

Learn more about kidney transplants at Ochsner here: https://ow.ly/u4LU50WWYEz.

Discover expert kidney and kidney-pancreas transplant care at the Ochsner Transplant Institute in New Orleans, Louisiana.

09/15/2025

At just 18, Zak T.'s lung function dropped to 18% due to cystic fibrosis. After previously taking himself off the transplant list, he made the courageous decision to try again. Within two weeks, Zak received a double lung transplant at Ochsner Health.

"I received my transplant about eight years ago now. I was already in the hospital at that time and wasn't going to last much longer," Zak said. "I was fairly apathetic then because at a certain point in illness you start to get tunnel vision and just want to sleep."

When he woke up after surgery, everything changed. He could breathe again and see a new future ahead.

"They got me out of bed fast and into a chair, so I did my best to go up and down," Zak recalled. "It really wasn't bad at all. After a few days, I was bringing my chest tube with me to the bathroom."

Zak's recovery included more than physical healing. He reflected on the years he struggled with his diagnosis, rejecting treatments and feeling isolated from friends. "I couldn't understand how I was any different from my friends until I got older," he said.

The transplant provided Zak with a fresh perspective. "I didn't think I was worth it. I had a hard time learning who I was and finding a purpose. The transplant showed me what I would've missed out on. My perspective on life had the chance to develop in the first place because of it."

Now, with a degree in mass communication from Louisiana State University, Zak is working on a book to help others understand what it's like to live with a chronic illness. "It's for my family to know who I really am, for people like me so they can see someone else gets it, and for their families to better understand what their child or friend is going through," he explained.

To those waiting for a transplant, Zak offers hope: "You won't know how bad you feel now until you have a chance to feel better later. Fear is normal, but who's better at facing it than us and our medical friends? If you're a curious person like me, you may as well stick it out to see what happens. I'm glad I did."

Zak expresses deep gratitude for the Ochsner transplant team's extraordinary care.

Though he still faces complex emotions, including survivor's guilt, Zak continues to move forward with integrity and resolve. Thank you, Zak, for sharing your inspiring story of care with us!

Zak is pictured here with both of his parents at his LSU graduation, a proud moment that symbolizes his incredible journey and the support of his family every step of the way.

Learn more about lung transplants at Ochsner here: https://ow.ly/u4kB50WWOaa.

09/03/2025

❤️ Lake Charles sisters Anne Griepsma and Dr. Alice Babst share an unbreakable bond—now strengthened by a life-saving kidney donation. When Anne faced kidney failure, her sister Alice, an OBGYN, stepped up without hesitation and gave her the gift of life.

Both dedicated to their patients at CHRISTUS Ochsner Lake Area Hospital, these sisters show us the true power of family and resilience. Thanks to Alice’s donation, Anne is back to living life fully and Alice returned to delivering babies just a week after surgery.

With more than 100,000 Americans waiting for organ transplants, their story shines a light on the hope that living donors can provide.

Learn more here:

"Seeing your sister go through dialysis three days a week and being wiped out completely ... it's not even a question," said Dr. Alice Babst, when thinking of donating a kidney to her sister.

08/12/2025

Meet Bruce Posecai, RN, a nurse on the transplant step-down unit at Ochsner Medical Center - New Orleans!

Bruce has spent the last 17 years as a registered nurse, and two years before that as a nurse tech, caring for transplant patients before and after surgery and during any bumps along the road. 💙

“I enjoy helping out with any patient care needs,” Bruce says. “The most rewarding part of my job is seeing someone get a second chance at life through transplant. That makes it all worth it.”

Bruce’s journey into transplant nursing began during a school project on community and nursing. “I suggested my group focus on LOPA, and after that, I knew this was the kind of nursing I wanted to do.”

His favorite part of the job? The people. “We have a great team. Everyone communicates well, and the leadership is strong. They always keep us educated on the latest advances in transplant care,” he said.

Outside the hospital, Bruce’s life is full of Louisiana charm; He loves playing beach volleyball, fishing and crabbing, catching Saints, Pelicans and Tulane games and going to the movies. 🎣⚜️

He also wants to remind the community: “It’s okay to register as an organ donor. The waitlist is long, and you can’t take your organs with you. Why not save a life?”

With his easygoing nature, empathy, and dedication to patient comfort, Bruce makes a lasting impact on everyone he meets. We’re lucky to have him on our transplant team!

Learn more about organ transplants at Ochsner and register to become an organ donor today by visiting https://ow.ly/v2VY50WC2tz.

08/06/2025

Meet Ethan Rodriguez, RN, a transplant step-down unit nurse who’s been part of the Ochsner family for the past three years. Born and raised in Madisonville, Louisiana, Ethan brings compassion to every patient interaction.

“I started as a nurse tech on this floor, and now I’m a full-time registered nurse,” he shares. “I round on patients, provide the care they need, and most importantly try to make them feel comfortable in a tough situation.”

Ethan’s passion for transplant medicine began during a clinical rotation in nursing school. The most rewarding part of his job is getting to discharge someone who waited years for an organ transplant and worked hard to heal after the transplant.

Outside the hospital, Ethan stays active playing basketball, working out, hanging with friends and even working for the New Orleans Pelicans during the season 🏀.

He wants more people to know: “At Ochsner, we transplant hearts, lungs, livers, kidneys, and pancreas - sometimes even combinations, depending on the patient’s condition.”

Learn more about organ transplants at Ochsner and sign-up to become a donor today by visiting https://ow.ly/KCHy50WAj6m.

Each registered organ donor can save up to 9 lives.

07/30/2025

Meet Kerry Douglas-Dupre, BSN, RN, CNOR, a peri-operative nurse at Ochsner Medical Center - New Orleans. Kerry serves on both the neurosurgery and transplant teams at Ochsner, bringing over a decade of experience and dedication to lifesaving procedures. Since joining Ochsner in 2013 and the Transplant team in 2014, Kerry has played an essential role in complex liver and kidney transplants.

Kerry grew up in Houma, Louisiana, in a close-knit, family-oriented home, where his relationships with his grandparents helped shape who he is today. In 2013, he moved to New Orleans and now lives in Metairie with his husband, Stephen, and their two dachshunds, Cocoa and Zoey. Outside of work, he enjoys video games, spending time with loved ones and exploring the city.

As one of the longest-standing members of the transplant team, Kerry is responsible for ensuring patient safety throughout each surgery. His work includes intraoperative documentation, maintaining a sterile surgical environment and anticipating the needs of the surgical team so every procedure runs smoothly and efficiently. Kerry’s commitment to excellence helps make these life-changing surgeries possible.

When asked what he finds most rewarding about his job, Kerry shared, “The most rewarding aspect of my job is the small but meaningful role I play in making someone’s life better. Each procedure, each life saved, reminds me of the importance of what we do as a team, and it’s a privilege to be part of something that has such a profound impact.”

Kerry also points to advances that make transplant surgery even more successful. Today, donated livers and kidneys can be placed on a pump to keep them viable longer outside the body, giving the team more time to prepare and better assess each organ’s health before transplant.

Since joining Ochsner in 2013, Kerry has earned his CNOR certification (Certified Nurse Operating Room) and achieved Clinical Ladder Level 3, reflecting his dedication to professional growth and the highest standards of patient care. Kerry said, “These accomplishments motivate me to keep advancing in my field and to provide the highest level of care possible.”

We’re proud to recognize team members like Kerry who bring skill, compassion and commitment to every transplant. Thank you, Kerry, for the difference you make each day. 💙

Learn more about organ donation at Ochsner by visiting, https://ow.ly/wu0Z50WxtaF

Each registered organ donor can save up to 9 lives.

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💚

07/07/2025

🧴☀️ 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.

07/02/2025

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.