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At Midwest Transplant Network, we have the honor of sharing stories of hope, love and triumph in the face of tragedy as we care for donor heroes and their families. We hope these posts will provide an inside look into the world of organ, eye, and tissue donation and inspire you to add your name to the donor registry or encourage others to do the same. Together, we can help decrease the transplant waitlist.

Mikayla Bonner's family

Mikayla Bonner: A Young Life Remembered, A Legacy of Healing Through Donation

Mikayla Bonner was bright, vibrant, had a great smile, and made friends with people who had difficulty making friends. Most of all, she made memories with her mother, Kola Atkins, and younger sisters, Mattie and Mae. Mikayla was 14 when she passed away from a pulmonary embolism. Mom said there was “no hesitation” to make […]

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Dawn Romano from MTN.

From Cancer Survivor to Advocate: Dawn Romano’s Journey with Tissue Donation and Hope

Dawn Romano, LCSW, LSCSW, Midwest Transplant Network Authorization Educator, shares her experience with cancer and breast reconstruction. Dawn Romano is a clinically licensed social worker who focuses on organ and tissue donation as an Authorization Educator for Midwest Transplant Network. She joined MTN 15 years ago as a Family Services Coordinator. Through the years Dawn […]

Drew Toler with MTN.

MTN Staff Spotlight: Drew Toler, Director of Family Services, reflects on career & future

When Drew Toler was taking a class in graduate school 36 years ago, he didn’t know his career would be influenced by a discussion between a student and professor. Once he recalled the conversation, everything clicked and the foundation for a life-changing and inspirational career began. In 2019, Drew joined Midwest Transplant Network as a […]

Joe Hecht, donor hero, wearing a white button-down shirt with a grey and maroon tie.

MTN Donor Hero to be Honored on OneLegacy Donate Life Rose Parade Float, Jan. 1

Donor hero Joe Hecht will be featured as MTN’s honoree on the 2025 OneLegacy Donate Life Rose Parade float.

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Marine Corps Vets Share Connection As Organ Recipient and MTN Ambassador

Fred Harper has always taken immense pride in his work. He feels honored and privileged to be part of something bigger than himself. This was true after his first semester in college, and he made a life-changing decision. He made a big announcement when he told his parents he was leaving college to join the […]

Organ Donors

can save up to eight lives.