MTN Staff Spotlight: Jeannette Ayala, Donation Services Senior Specialist
Throughout her career at Midwest Transplant Network, Jeannette Ayala has directly impacted the lives of more than 30,000 people. This incredible milestone came as a shock to her, reflecting her unwavering commitment and genuine humility.
Jeannette has dedicated 18 years of service to MTN, starting as a Tissue Coordinator and now serving as a Donation Services Senior Specialist. Regardless of her position, Jeannette is fueled by a deep sense of compassion and a desire to pay it forward.
Get to know Jeannette as she shares what brought her to MTN, the moments that have stayed with her and what drives her to serve.
Jeannette Ayala
What is your career experience in healthcare?
I began my career as a surgical technician at Olathe Medical Center. During my rotation, I was approached by an MTN employee and encouraged to apply. I was only at Olathe for a few months before joining MTN full-time as a Tissue Coordinator.
What originally brought you to MTN and how long have you been on the MTN team?
I started with MTN in 2008. The opportunity truly felt like it landed in my lap, but what solidified my decision was attending an Ambassador meeting where donor families shared how donation helped them heal. After that, I knew I wanted to be part of this work.
How has working in this field influenced your perspective of organ, eye and tissue donation?
Working in this field has deeply shaped my perspective. I’ve dedicated my life to it because I truly believe in the impact it has. I also feel a strong desire to pay it forward, just as someone once did for my family in a different way.
What does organ donation mean to you?
To me, organ donation can mean the difference between life and death. The same is true for tissue donation. Depending on the situation, it has the power to save and dramatically improve lives.
When you’re speaking with folks outside of MTN, how do you explain what you do?
I tend to be pretty humble about what I do and don’t often go into detail. Usually, it’s my family who shares what I do with others because they’re so proud of the work.
Based on your experience, what would you say to someone who is unsure about being a registered organ, eye and tissue donor?
I would encourage them to attend an Ambassador event so they can hear directly from donor families and recipients. Seeing those stories firsthand really shows the difference donation makes. I also remind people that you never know who might be impacted—it could even be someone you love.
Describe a moment at work that made you feel proud, challenged or reminded you why this work matters.
One of my colleagues is part of a donor family, and I had the opportunity to train her when she joined MTN. She later shared her story with me and told me that I had helped her family through the donation process. That moment reminded me how close this work can be to any of us and how important it is to show kindness and compassion, no matter how busy or heavy the workload may be. We are here to serve, and it could one day be our own loved one in need.
Can you explain how you feel knowing that your work in the DSD has impacted the lives of over 30,000 people?
Honestly—wow. I had no idea, and it brings tears to my eyes. It’s an incredible feeling. I entered the medical field because someone helped save my son’s life in the surgery room 25 years ago, and I wanted to pay that forward. Knowing this is the impact we’ve had is truly overwhelming in the best way.
How would your colleagues describe you in three words?
Patient, caring, and always willing to help.
Your role can be “heavy.” What is something outside of work that brings you joy?
Spending time with my kids and seeing them happy, smiling and having fun.
