How long have you been a member of the Black Health Network, and what drew you to CBHN?
We are approaching our first year with CBHN! At Donor Network West, we recognize the unique opportunity we have in supporting our mutual goals of improving health and health equity for the diverse community we serve. I am inspired by and regularly share CBHN’s educational webinar offerings and information with our network of volunteers, partners, and employees.
What is your current profession?
President and CEO at Donor Network West, a federally designated nonprofit 501(c)3 Organ Procurement Organization. Our mission is to save and heal lives through organ and tissue donation for transplantation and research.
From your perspective, what barriers exist in achieving health equity for Black Californians?
Representation in medical and health policy, culturally competent healthcare workers, having seats at the decision-making tables, challenges in managing chronic diseases, healthcare deserts, and the historical context of systemic racism and its long-term impact on health and well-being are several barriers to achieving health equity for Black Californians.
Both in your work and with CBHN, how have you been able to prioritize the health of Black Californians?
As an organization, Donor Network West serves a diverse, multicultural population – over 14 million people in northern California and northern Nevada in our service area. There are more than 100,000 people waiting for a lifesaving organ transplant in the U.S., with 20,000 living in California and more than 600 in Nevada. Our service area is comprised of 60% BIPOC/Non-White, and the awareness and education we provide, specifically in our Community team outreach, has a strong focus on dispelling myths about organ donation and transplantation, which can negatively impact and influence health decisions. Over the past five years, we are proud to have increased organ donation authorization rates (those who have said “yes” to organ donation) by 77% in the Black community. In raising awareness of the critical need of lifesaving organs, we partner with the Golden State Warriors to bring Black, pediatric patients residing throughout Northern California with a connection to donation and transplantation courtside next to the players and coaches during African American Heritage Night. I stated in the CBHN Health4Life Series: Let’s Celebrate Life this past April, our organization represents and mirrors the community we serve, in both perception and appearance. Partnering with organizations like CBHN allows us to continue advocating for people waiting for a lifesaving organ, while at the same time, offering hope and creating lasting legacies for families who have lost loved ones.
What inspires you to keep doing the work you do?
Meeting individuals who have been able to live life fulfillments by receiving a second chance at life through organ transplantation is truly moving. Their immense appreciation for their donors is beyond words, but it’s clear that they live their lives full of gratitude and with a deep desire to share their personal stories of triumph. They always acknowledge the immeasurable gift of life they received. I am also inspired by the incredible work of our dedicated staff who tirelessly honor this gift of life through organ donation. With continuous medical advancements and research, we are expanding the possibilities in transplantation, and being part of this work to improve health outcomes is both inspiring and a true privilege. I am just returning from attending the Transplant Games of America where we can have the rewarding experience of the recipients returning to doing the things they love.
What's the bravest thing you've ever done?
With my fear of heights, driving up the Mount Diablo summit was no easy feat. But I did it!
What's the best advice you've ever received?
Take the time to build relationships. Be intentional, not transactional.