The Unspoken

The Unspoken | Ep 15 | CKF Awards 25/26

Join Anna as she sits down with the 2025 CKF Award Winners as they share their journeys in the transplant and donation community along with what inspired them to continue giving back and supporting others.  We will also be announcing the 2026 CKF Award Winners!  Support the show [https://www.chrisklugfoundation.org/donate]

The Unspoken | Ep 14 | A Mile High Hope, Denver 2026

Most people don’t realize that the upcoming 2026 Transplant Games in Denver will be the largest celebration of life in the world — and you can be part of it. When Mark McIntosh shares his journey from battling a rare blood cancer to receiving a life-saving kidney transplant, he reveals the extraordinary power of organ donation and the life-changing impact of community support. This episode dives deep into the incredible story of resilience, hope, and giving back. Mark shares how a simple act — sharing your spare — saved his life and how the Transplant Games foster an inspiring environment where thousands come together to celebrate life, connect across communities, and promote organ donation awareness. He highlights the importance of trusting healthcare, Colorado’s pioneering transplant history, and the need to increase awareness among communities of color.  Support the show [https://www.chrisklugfoundation.org/donate]

The Unspoken | Ep 13 | Duality of Gratitude & Grief P2

Welcome to Part 2 of the Duality of Gratitude & Grief. Anna is joined by Denzel, Mari, Monique, and Denise, the ED of The Heartfelt Help Foundation.  This conversation delves into the complex emotional and financial challenges faced by families navigating the heart transplant journey. Through personal stories, the speakers share their experiences of trauma, guilt, and resilience, highlighting the ongoing struggles that persist long after the transplant. The discussion emphasizes the duality of gratitude and grief, as families learn to cope with the realities of living with chronic health issues while supporting their loved ones. Support the show [https://www.chrisklugfoundation.org/donate]

The Unspoken | Ep 12 | Duality of Gratitude and Grief

We are kicking off season 2 of The Unspoken with Denise Redeker and three of her Pediatric Heart Transplant Patient Families. We are so thankful to Denzel, Mari, and Monique for being open and honest about their family's journey through and after a heart transplant.  This conversation delves into the complex emotional and financial challenges faced by families navigating the heart transplant journey. Through personal stories, the speakers share their experiences of trauma, guilt, and resilience, highlighting the ongoing struggles that persist long after the transplant. The discussion emphasizes the duality of gratitude and grief, as families learn to cope with the realities of living with chronic health issues while supporting their loved ones. Support the show [https://www.chrisklugfoundation.org/donate]

The Unspoken | Ep 11 | The Gift of Sight

This episode explores the profound impact of eye donation, featuring heartfelt stories from donor families and insights from experts in the field. Anna is joined by donor family Leslie & Brad Vickers, as well as Staci from the Rocky Mountain Lions Eye Bank. The conversation highlights the unique aspects of eye donation compared to other organ donations, emphasizing the importance of early discussions about donation decisions. The episode also delves into the emotional journey of donor families and the life-changing effects on recipients. Support the show [https://www.chrisklugfoundation.org/donate]