Stef never imagined that the work she’d one day dedicate her life to would become the very thing that helped her heal. She began her work as a Donor Family Coordinator at Donor Alliance a few years ago, supporting families through the process of organ, eye and tissue donation after loss. But her connection to this mission began before that, when her older brother Max passed away unexpectedly after an accident. Even in the middle of unimaginable grief, Stef and her family chose to honor Max’s generous spirit by saying ‘yes’ to organ, eye and tissue donation. Max went on to save five lives and heal many more. “There’s some comfort knowing that your person is out there somewhere and that your person did directly ensure somebody else was going to live, which is just so cool,” Stef Shared. Now, through both her professional role and personal story, Stef helps others understand the true meaning of donation. Each day, she honors Max not just in memory, but through action. She stands beside grieving families with the quiet strength of someone who understands.
For the past 26 years, hundreds of people have gathered in Denver for the annual Donor Dash. The 5K run/walk is dedicated to honoring, celebrating and recognizing those whose lives have been impacted by organ and tissue donation. This year, a nurse from Parker is taking part for the first time, in honor of her patients and the organ donor who saved her life.
Pancreas transplants are among the rarest organ transplants performed each year. These procedures have become increasingly uncommon since 2004. There are different reasons for this, including difficulty in both the recovery and transplantation processes. Other available treatments that are less invasive than a transplant and strict criteria that limits the eligibility for many donors.
What is the pancreas?
The pancreas is a small tubular-shaped, glandular organ that is located behind the stomach. It produces enzymes that are used for digestion. 
The pancreas also produces insulin which is essential for life because it regulates the use of blood sugar throughout the body.
If the pancreas stops producing insulin, this can result in a diagnosis of Type I diabetes. This is an autoimmune disease and those diagnosed with it must take insulin daily to live. Type II diabetes occurs more often in adults and is considered a chronic disease. With Type II diabetes, the pancreas is usually producing enough insulin, but for unknown reasons, the body cannot use the insulin effectively. Maintaining a healthy diet and active lifestyle can help in managing both types of diabetes.
Why would you need a pancreas transplant?
Most transplant candidates in need of a pancreas transplant are listed because of diabetes, pancreatic cancer, bile duct cancer or chronic kidney disease. Often, candidates who are in need of pancreas transplants are also in need of a kidney transplant. It’s common to transplant both organs together, though it can make finding a match more difficult.
One Advocate’s Story: Rhonda Hill
One of our Advocates for Life shared her story about her need for a kidney-pancreas transplant and how that transplant saved her life. Rhonda Hill, from Douglas, Wyoming, was diagnosed with Type 1 diabetes as a child and spent years managing her health. Eventually, her condition progressed to the point where she needed both a kidney and pancreas transplant to survive.
She shared how deeply her life was impacted by the gift of donation. “I know my donor changed the lives of many others that same night in October of 2000 with her gifts,” Rhonda shared. “I think of her and thank her every day.” Now, more than two decades later, Rhonda continues to honor her donor’s legacy by advocating for organ donation and encouraging others to say “yes” to giving the gift of life.
What You Can Do To Help
If you have questions about pancreas or kidney-pancreas transplants, speak with your doctor or contact a transplant center for more information. And remember: anyone can register to become an organ, eye and tissue donor. Don’t assume you’re ineligible, even transplant recipients can sometimes become donors. Register to be an organ, eye and tissue donor, by visiting Donate Life Colorado or Donate Life Wyoming.
