Physicians and healthcare partners play a critical role in the organ donation and transplantation process. Connected by Life was created to have engaging conversations about important topics that impact our clinical stakeholders. Whether it's infectious disease, how to declare brain death, or physician burnout, there is something for every healthcare provider to help get Connected by Life.
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Bio
Shawn-Paul Harrison serves as the Physician and Donation Specialist at the Louisiana Organ Procurement Agency (LOPA), where he has devoted more than two decades of his career. Throughout his tenure, he has gained extensive expertise in various domains, including hospital development, family advocacy, and diverse managerial and leadership roles. As a proud member of the American Association of Physician Liaisons, Shawn-Paul has been steadfastly focused on nurturing and fortifying relationships with physicians in recent years. Notably, he spearheaded the establishment of the Physician Engagement Committee. This committee comprises physicians across the state who are dedicated to implementing optimal practices and enhancing existing donation processes. Above all, Shawn-Paul's unwavering passion lies in assisting physicians during times of bereavement to effectively support families and facilitate the remarkable Gift of Life.
Release Date: 04/22/2024
Show Notes: Shawn-Paul welcomes back Brian Castille, former fire chief and the proud father of an organ donor hero. In celebration of April National Donate Life month, Brian continues to share an inspirational story about his son becoming an organ donor hero, leaving behind a legacy of hope and healing. Through Brian's poignant storytelling, we gain insight into the profound impact of organ donation and the ripple effects it creates within families and communities. He recounts how the support provided by the physicians and healthcare teams helped their family make a decision that would forever change their lives.
Release Date: 04/15/2024
Show Notes: Shawn-Paul welcomes Brian Castille, former fire chief and the proud father of an organ donor hero. Brian shares an incredibly touching story about his son - a soldier, a fireman and life-saving organ donor hero. They discuss the crucial role of physicians and healthcare teams in supporting families during such challenging times, which underscores the importance of compassionate care and understanding in the medical profession. Brian focuses on how providing guidance to families navigating loss is an essential aspect that can make a profound difference in their healing process, while making end of life decisions.
Release Date: 04/08/2024
Show Notes: Shawn-Paul welcomes back Dr. Clifford Courville, a Critical Care Pulmonologist at Lake Charles Memorial Hospital and a leader among healthcare professionals. Dr. Courville shares his experiences of supporting families through the most challenging times of loss. He talks about how vital the physician’s role is when communicating with families on the medical situation in understandable terms, while helping them make informed end-of-life decisions. Dr. Courville also discusses the collaboration with the organ procurement agency to facilitate the gift of life through organ donation. It’s an opportunity that can truly make a difference in saving lives of those in need of a transplant and honoring the legacy of the donor hero.
Release Date: 04/01/2024
Show Notes: Shawn-Paul welcomes Dr. Clifford Courville, a Critical Care Pulmonologist at Lake Charles Memorial Hospital and a leader within healthcare. Dr. Courville discusses the importance of providing factual information to families, along with how essential it is to include empathy and consistent communication when talking about their loved one’s condition or prognosis. Through his experience, he shares how crucial the physician's role is when families are potentially facing the loss of a loved one and having to make end of life decisions.
Release Date: 03/25/2024
Show Notes: Shawn-Paul welcomes back Ali Heard, registered nurse, Trauma Director at Ochsner Lafayette General Hospital and sister of a donor hero. They continue their discussion on the importance of supporting families experiencing tragic loss, while also preserving the opportunity of donation. They delve into the collaborative impact between the organ procurement teams and the healthcare partners. Ali shares her personal experience and emphasizes that by working together, we are able to make a meaningful difference in the lives of those who are grieving and for those in need of a life-saving transplant.
Release Date: 03/18/2024
Show Notes: Shawn-Paul welcomes Ali Heard, registered nurse, Trauma Director at Ochsner Lafayette General Hospital and sister of a donor hero. Gracie's legacy serves as a beacon of light, inspiring others to consider the gift of organ donation and to embrace the opportunity to make a difference in the lives of others. Ali's personal and professional journey with organ donation highlights the transformative power of generosity and love, leaving an enduring story that continues to touch hearts and change lives. Ali shares her deep appreciation on the profound impact that organ donation can have on individuals and their families.
Release Date: 03/11/2024
Show Notes: Shawn-Paul welcomes Toni Celestine, daughter of a donor hero, Director of Career & Testing Services at South Louisiana Community College and co-founder of the Lieutenant Linda Brown Memorial Scholarship. Toni shares heartfelt stories about her mother, a hero that left a legacy through giving life to others through tissue donation. They engage in a meaningful conversation that touches on important topics such as organ and tissue donation, education in multicultural communities and dispelling myths or misconceptions surrounding life-saving donations.
Release Date: 03/04/2024
Show Notes: Shawn-Paul welcomes back Jude Fontenot, Chief Operating Officer of Ochsner Lafayette General Hospital. Jude continues the discussion on the impact of executive leadership in the hospital regarding organ donation, while also highlighting how vital the collaboration with the organ procurement organization team is in building a positive culture and shaping successful initiatives. They emphasize how important systematic support is when provided to families dealing with loss and preserving the opportunity to save the lives of others through donation.
Release Date: 02/26/2024
Show Notes: Shawn-Paul welcomes Jude Fontenot, Chief Operating Officer of Ochsner Lafayette General Hospital. Jude reflects on his extensive career in healthcare, as a nurse and Critical Care Director for over 20 years, as well as how vital the collaboration between the organ procurement organization and hospital is to positively impact potential donor families and those awaiting transplant.
Release Date: 02/19/2024
Show Notes: Shawn-Paul rejoins Dr. Jonathan Hand, Section Head of Transplant Infectious Disease at Ochsner Health, and Joey Boudreaux, Senior Director of Regional Operations for LOPA, as they recount the incredible journey that led to the first HIV positive heart that was recovered and transplanted. They provide the intricate details on the collaboration between the medical teams that allowed this unprecedented milestone in transplantation, a gift from a donor hero which ultimately saved the life of someone in need.
Release Date: 02/12/2024
Show Notes: Shawn-Paul talks with Dr. Jonathan Hand, Section Head of Transplant Infectious Disease at Ochsner Health, and Joey Boudreaux, Senior Director of Regional Operations for LOPA, about the groundbreaking medical advancements in facilitating organ transplants from HIV positive donors to recipients in need. They discuss the evolution of the HIV Organ Policy Equity ACT (HOPE Act) and its impact, along with the initiatives that promote inclusivity in organ donation and transplantation.
Release Date: 02/05/2024
Show Notes: Shawn-Paul engages in another meaningful conversation with Brena Romero, a registered nurse and neurosurgery nurse practitioner, exploring her expertise in guiding families through the challenges of coping with a loved one's severe brain injury. Brena emphasizes the significance of empathy in establishing connections with families during the sensitive process of end-of-life decision-making. The discussion delves into the crucial collaboration between organ procurement agencies and hospital teams, shedding light on the vital role they play in offering the opportunity to save lives through organ donation.
Release Date: 01/29/2024
Show Notes: Shawn-Paul visits with Brena Romero, a registered nurse and neurosurgery nurse practitioner, as they discuss how she helps families navigate and understand the severity of a loved one's brain injury. During this discussion, Brena compassionately sheds light on the emotional challenges that families often encounter when confronted with the potential loss associated with a brain injury. She emphasizes the importance of clear communication and empathy in her interactions with families as they face the possibility of end of life decisions.
Release Date: 01/22/2024
Show Notes: Shawn-Paul visits with Tammy Vincent, a nurse of over 30 years, as she describes her personal journey of waiting for a kidney and pancreas transplant. Tammy highlights how her extensive medical experience has equipped her in preparing for this second chance at life. She openly discusses the hope she holds onto for both her donor hero and their family, who she sincerely wants to honor while spreading the important message about organ donation.
Release Date: 01/15/2024
Show Notes: Shawn-Paul returns with Dr. Angela Bourg, Family Practice Physician and heart recipient, as she continues sharing her experiences during the transition from a healer to a patient in need of a transplant. Dr. Bourg provides a unique perspective, detailing her journey from being a doctor to receiving the gift of life herself. She is dedicated to honoring her donor hero and being an advocate in spreading the message about the importance of organ donation.
Release Date: 01/08/2024
Show Notes: Shawn-Paul Harrison talks with Dr. Angela Bourg, Family Practice Physician and heart recipient, as they explore her medical background and her journey to needing a life-saving transplant. She shares her emotional and physical insights of transitioning from a healthcare provider to a patient herself, while awaiting the gift of life.
Release Date: 01/01/2024
Show Notes: Shawn-Paul Harrison welcomes back Sean Jordan, President of the Research & Planning Group. Join them as they discuss the transformative power of physician feedback in the organ procurement process. Gain a deeper understanding of the collaboration dynamics, witness the positive impacts on donor families, and explore how this meticulous partnership contributes to the life-saving journey of organ transplantation.
Release Date: 12/25/2023
Show Notes: Shawn-Paul Harrison visits with Sean Jordan, President of the Research & Planning Group, as they explore the meticulous process of gathering beneficial feedback from physicians. Sean provides insights that contribute to the collaboration between the organ procurement organizations and healthcare partners, along with how it positively impacts donor families and those awaiting a life-saving organ transplant.
Release Date: 12/18/2023
Show Notes: Shawn-Paul Harrison welcomes back Reecie Gilmore, donor mom and founder of The RescYou Group. They continue their discussion on an organization, which is not only honoring the memory of Clinton Ryan, but also helping others navigate through the difficult journey of grief. Reecie’s unbelievable passion acknowledges that there is nothing normal about burying a child. She reflects on a deeper understanding of the unique challenges these families face and the importance of fostering connections to provide hope and healing.
Link: therescyougroup.org
Release Date: 12/11/2023
Show Notes: Shawn-Paul Harrison welcomes Reecie Gilmore, donor mom and founder of The RescYou Group. They share an incredibly powerful story about her son, Clinton Ryan, and the strength that can come from turning a tragedy into an opportunity for healing and purpose. Reecie continues her mission to honor her son, while providing support to others throughout their own grief journey.
Release Date: 12/04/2023
Show Notes: Shawn-Paul Harrison welcomes back Dr. Laurie Grier, Critical Care Pulmonologist, to have an enlightening conversation in order to explore the multifaceted aspects of organ donation. Together, they aim to inspire a positive shift in attitudes and contribute to the development of a more supportive organ donation culture. Tune in as they emphasize the crucial role physicians play in cultivating this environment within their respective hospitals.
Release Date: 11/27/2023
Show Notes: Shawn-Paul welcomes Dr. Laurie Grier, Critical Care Pulmonologist, to discuss the compassionate exploration of how physicians, in collaboration with grieving families, can pave the way for a legacy of hope through the extraordinary gift of organ donation. They talk about how even in the midst of loss, there is an opportunity for new beginnings and a celebration of life that transcends the boundaries of grief.
Release Date: 11/20/2023
Show Notes: Shawn-Paul welcomes back two industry leading organ procurement professionals, Lisa Tebb and Kyle Peterson, to discuss the creation of the Co-OPO, a forum for networking and best practice sharing between organ procurement organization professionals.
Release Date: 11/13/2023
Show Notes: Shawn-Paul welcomes two industry leading organ procurement professionals, Lisa Tebb and Kyle Peterson, to discuss an upcoming collaborative virtual meeting about the impact of physician engagement. They explore how physicians' involvement can play a pivotal role in helping families that are facing the loss of a loved one, while preserving the opportunity of saving the lives of others through organ donation.
Release Date: 11/06/2023
Show Notes: Shawn-Paul welcomes back Mallori Taylor, ER Nurse and sister of an organ donor hero. Mallori gives a moving and insightful perspective on how the act of organ donation can positively impact the lives of both the donor's family and healthcare professionals. They discuss how this experience fosters a sense of purpose, healing and provides a deeper appreciation for the gift of life.
Release Date: 10/30/2023
Show Notes: Shawn-Paul and Suzanna Morton, LOPA Community Educator, discuss the key aspects of educating the community about donation. Increased knowledge is essential and is a catalyst for fostering a culture within the community that is supportive of organ donation. By providing people with accurate and comprehensive information, it empowers individuals to make educated decisions about whether to become organ donors themselves or support the decisions of their loved ones.
Release Date: 10/23/2023
Show Notes: Shawn-Paul and Mallori Taylor, ER Nurse and sister of an organ donor hero, talk about the 10th anniversary of the LOPA Trail Run for Life. Mallori shares her and her family's own experience, along with how this day has become a growing platform to honor all donor heroes, their families, the recipients who have received the gift of life and to spread awareness throughout the community.
Release Date: 10/16/2023
Show Notes: Shawn-Paul and Suzanna Morton, LOPA Community Educator, talk about the importance of educating the community on the impact of organ donation. It ensures that individuals and their families are well-prepared to make informed decisions that can potentially save the lives of others. They discuss how increased knowledge is a catalyst for fostering a culture within the community that is supportive of donation.
Release Date: 10/09/2023
Show Notes: Shawn-Paul continues his discussion with Dr. Juan Soliven, Critical Care Intensivist, on how his personal story with organ donation has influenced his professional journey. Dr. Soliven provides valuable insight, which is led with passion and expertise, on how to effectively support families experiencing loss and the lives that can be impacted by the life-saving gifts of their loved one.
Release Date: 10/02/2023
Show Notes: Shawn-Paul and Dr. Juan Soliven, Critical Care Intensivist, discuss a unique and touching perspective on living donation. As Dr. Soliven shares his own experience of donating a kidney to save his father’s life, it provides an inspirational intersection of personal and professional life in healthcare, as well as the immense impact that living donation can have on both the donor and the recipient.
Release Date: 09/25/2023
Show Notes: Shawn-Paul and Joel Scott, LOPA’s Tissue Recovery Manager and son of a tissue donor hero, continue their discussion on the impact of tissue donation. They discuss specific examples and share stories of how tissue donation has helped families dealing with loss, along with transforming the lives of recipients who have received the gift of transplantation.
Release Date: 09/18/2023
Show Notes: Shawn-Paul and Joel Scott, LOPA’s Tissue Recovery Manager and son of a tissue donor hero, delve into the variables and technical aspects of tissue donation. They give valuable insight on the intricacies and importance within the process, along with the significant impact that tissue donors can have on the lives of recipients and the donor families.
Release Date: 09/11/2023
Show Notes: Shawn-Paul and Nila Schwab, MEd, PLPC, continue their conversation about traumatic loss and the Traumatic Loss Support Program (TLSP). They explore the challenges faced by individuals and families dealing with death and a program designed to help navigate them through their grief journey. This program offers various services and resources tailored to the specific needs of those who have experienced traumatic loss, providing essential support during one of life's most difficult experiences.
Release Date: 09/04/2023
Show Notes: In this episode, we speak with Nila Schwab, MEd, PLPC, and delve into the deeply sensitive topic of traumatic loss and talk about the Traumatic Loss Support Program(TLSP). Traumatic loss is a term that encompasses a range of experiences where individuals and families are confronted with sudden and unexpected death. These situations can have profound and lasting effects on the emotional and psychological well-being of those left behind. This discussion explores a program that aims to provide support to families who are struggling with grief and loss.
Release Date: 08/28/2023
Show Notes: Shawn-Paul speaks with Joey Boudreaux, LOPA's Regional Operations Director, to discuss the positive impact of normothermic regional perfusion in the field of organ donation. They talk about several aspects of the technique, its potential to improve patient outcomes and address the challenges of organ shortage.
Release Date: 08/21/2023
Show Notes: Shawn-Paul and Dr. Jonathan Eaton conclude their two part series by discussing the importance of navigating delicate conversations of death and donation. They highlight that compassion, understanding and a focus on the needs and emotions of the grieving family are vital to the process. It's challenging, but crucial, to separate the two topics and collaboratively work together to fulfill the wishes of each family, while saving the lives of others through donation.
Release Date: 08/14/2023
Show Notes: Shawn-Paul and Dr. Jonathan Eaton talk about the critical topic of handling conversations with families who are dealing with the loss of a loved one and considering the possibility of organ donation. This episode delves into the key aspects of effectively communicating the clinical concepts of death, providing support, and building trust while focusing on the importance of separating the discussion of donation.
Release Date: 08/07/2023
Show Notes: In this heartwarming episode, Shawn-Paul and Mark Nelson continue their conversation, delving into Mark's remarkable journey after receiving his life-saving heart transplant. They discuss not only his physical health but also his emotional well-being and how this life-changing experience has shaped his outlook on life moving forward. Mark also reflects on leaving a lasting legacy by honoring his hero and the hero’s family. Knowing first hand how impactful these relationships can be, he is a champion for donation with his patients and encourages those who receive tissue to write a thank you letter to their donor’s family.
Release Date: 07/31/2023
Show Notes: On this episode, which is a two part series, Shawn-Paul Harrison talks with Mark Nelson, a Physician’s Assistant and 30 year healthcare provider. Mark shares his personal journey of learning he needed a heart transplant, the process leading up to this life-changing transformation, and the struggle of going from provider to patient.
Release Date: 07/24/2023
Show Notes: On this episode, Shawn-Paul Harrison and Dr. Michelle Self have a discussion about the true meaning of palliative care and how it positively impacts healthcare. The conversation centers around the multidisciplinary approach that empowers families during the decision-making process, shedding light on its valuable role in supporting patients and their loved ones.
Release Date: 07/17/2023
Show Notes: On this episode, Shawn-Paul Harrison and Dr. Aimee Aysenne continue their discussion on brain death and delivering the test results to families with compassion and clarity. These crucial conversations help set the stage for ensuring proper family support while they are making decisions on organ donation that align with their values and beliefs.
Release Date: 07/10/2023
Show Notes: Dr. Aimee Aysenne, a Neuro Intensivist, shares her expertise and passion when discussing the importance of establishing a strong foundation with families to ensure they are prepared and informed during the brain death assessment process.
Release Date: 07/03/2023
Show Notes: Shawn-Paul Harrison & Dr. Justin Fowlkes (Pulmonary Critical Care Physician) delve into a conversation about the effective methods physicians can employ to enhance processes. They explore the significance of working collaboratively to help comfort families experiencing loss, particularly while they are making the decision to give the gift of life to others through organ donation.
Release Date: 06/26/2023
Show Notes: Shawn-Paul Harrison and Dr. Justin Fowlkes, a Pulmonary Critical Care Physician, engage in a conversation exploring the essence of a physician champion. They delve into the beneficial effects of this role on the donation process and its influence on hospital culture.
Release Date: 06/19/2023
Show Notes: Shawn-Paul Harrison and Adam Keaton, LOPA's Clinical Manager, engage in an ongoing conversation regarding the significance of the donor care center. Their discussion delves into various aspects, including the transfer process, specialized donor management, technological capabilities, and their collective contribution towards achieving optimal donor outcomes.
Release Date: 06/12/2023
Show Notes: Shawn-Paul Harrison, along with Adam Keaton, LOPA's Clinical Manager, delve into the evolution of in-house organ recovery facilities and shed light on the significance of various stakeholders in the organ donation process. This comprehensive discussion encompasses hospital partners, transplant centers, donor families, and OPO staff, highlighting their collective impact.
Release Date: 06/05/2023
Show Notes: Shawn-Paul Harrison and Joey Boudreaux (LOPA’s Chief Clinical Officer) continue their discussion about DCD - Donation after Circulatory Death. Advancements in technology, such as perfusion machines, are leading towards better outcomes in transplant from DCD donors, which could further expand the criteria we use for DCD donors.
Release Date: 05/29/2023
Show Notes: Shawn-Paul Harrison welcomes Joey Boudreaux, LOPA’s Chief Clinical Officer, for the first of a two part series on the origin of Donation after Circulatory Death(DCD). There are lots of questions about this type of donation, and it has the potential to greatly increase the number of people who can give the gift of life, so please check out both episodes in this series.
Release Date: 05/22/2023
Show Notes: Shawn-Paul and Dr. Dike Drummond focus on the donor hero, and how their story never ends, in the final episode of the 3 part Lightworkers series. They discuss walking the family through the grief journey no matter what their decision about donation is, and the importance of discussing your donation decisions with your families ahead of time.
Release Date: 05/22/2023
Show Notes: Shawn-Paul and Dr. Dike Drummond resume their conversation, acknowledging how hard it must be for doctor’s when they realize they can’t save their patient. The natural tendency is to speed the next part up, but it’s important to slow things down and give families time to process the information. Shawn Paul shares tips from other physicians on how to prepare families for these important conversations.
Release Date: 05/22/2023
Show Notes: Welcome to the first episode of Connected by Life! Our host, Shawn-Paul Harrison, is joined by Dr. Dike Drummond to discuss how physicians and healthcare partners play a critical role in supporting families experiencing loss, as well as within the organ and tissue donation process. This is the first episode in a three part series, so be sure to subscribe to get the whole series.
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By participating in The Connected By Life Podcast, Guest acknowledges it has not and will not receive compensation from the Louisiana Organ Procurement Agency (LOPA) and/or The Connected By Life Podcast for appearances on and participation in The Connected By Life Podcast.
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The information and content supplied through Louisiana Organ Procurement Agency (LOPA) and The Connected by Life podcast, including text, images, audio, or other formats (“Materials”) were created for informational purposes only and not intended to serve as a substitute for professional medical advice, consultation, diagnosis, and/or medical treatment of a qualified physician or health-care provider.
Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your physician, go to the emergency department, or call 911 immediately.
LOPA and The Connected By Life Podcast do not recommend or endorse any specific tests, physicians, products, procedures, opinions, or other information that may be mentioned. Reliance on any information provided is solely at your own risk.
YOU SHOULD ALWAYS CONSULT A PHYSICIAN OR OTHER HEALTHCARE PROVIDER OF YOUR OWN CHOICE AND CAREFULLY READ ALL PACKAGING AND OTHER INFORMATION PROVIDED BY THE MANUFACTURER OF ANY PRODUCTS OR DEVICES BEFORE USING THEM
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