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University of Michigan Symposium Molly, John, and Angela were warmly welcomed at the University of Michigan Transplant Symposium (first picture). The keynote address on Kidney Companions was a big hit, and seeing the volunteers and patients’ videos was the highlight. We especially appreciate all the support with several volunteers attending virtually and Therese Waters attending in-person (third picture). Several topics we raised, particularly related to the unique aspects that our patients living in rural communities face. Our advocacy is already starting to pay off, with the transplant center now beginning to explore more flexibility with biopsies and post-transplant procedures, including the option of bringing some of these procedures right here to Northern Michigan! Trinity Health Grand Rapids The transplant program at Trinity Health Grand Rapids (formerly St Mary’s) celebrated its 50th Anniversary with an invitational gala on November 2nd. Over the past 50 years, the transplant program has performed more than 2800 kidney transplants, and now has grown to boast more than 100 kidney transplants last year alone. Kidney Companions was represented by Therese Waters, who recounted stories of meeting a transplant patient from the very first year (1973), meeting a young man who was an altruistic anonymous donor (second picture), and hearing countless stories from recipients, donors, staff and support people.
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