đ In this episode of the Landmark Difference Makers Podcast, we feature Dr. Amy Waterman, a visionary leader in kidney transplantation education and advocacy. As a full professor and Director of Patient Engagement, Diversity, and Education at the J.S. Walter Transplant Center at Houston Methodist Research Institute, Dr. Waterman has dedicated her career to breaking barriers in transplantation and improving outcomes for patients worldwide.
Her nonprofit, Explore Transplant, focuses on empowering patients, families, and healthcare providers with the knowledge needed to make informed decisions about organ donation and transplantation. Driven by a passion for equity and innovation, Dr. Watermanâs work touches lives globally, ensuring that education and access to transplantation are within reach for all.
A Journey Inspired by Service
Dr. Watermanâs path to transplantation began with a summer job as a graduate student, interviewing living organ donors. What she expected to be a routine task became a profound experience, as she listened to the heartfelt stories of donors who described the act of giving as one of the most meaningful moments of their lives. âOne woman told me, âI became a poet after donating my kidney because I finally understood what life was about,ââ Dr. Waterman recalls.
Inspired by these stories, she made it her mission to ensure that donors and recipients have the resources and education to navigate this life-changing process. Over the years, her work has taken her from local hospitals to the White House and even the World Health Organization, where she has contributed to global guidelines for transplantation education.
Addressing Barriers and Expanding Access
Transplantation is a life-saving option, but access remains unequal due to systemic barriers. From economic challenges like the cost of transportation and medication to language barriers and geographic disparities, Dr. Waterman works tirelessly to close these gaps. Through initiatives like virtual education platforms and national campaigns, sheâs bringing vital information to patients and families who might otherwise be left behind.
âEveryone deserves equal access to information,â she emphasizes. âWhether youâre considering donating or in need of a transplant, the process should be transparent, clear, and accessible in every language.â
Innovating Through Technology
Dr. Watermanâs commitment to innovation extends to leveraging technology for education. Her project, My Transplant Coach, uses animated videos and personalized tools to help patients understand their options. By inputting individual characteristics, users can see how different treatmentsâsuch as dialysis or transplantationâmight impact their quality of life and survival.
Another breakthrough is the use of wearable technology, like bio-monitoring buttons, which allow doctors to track patientsâ vitals remotely. These innovations enhance patient care and provide critical support during recovery, reducing hospital readmissions and improving outcomes.
A Call to Action for Living Donation
With over 90,000 people in the U.S. waiting for kidney transplants, Dr. Waterman advocates for increasing living kidney donations to eliminate the waitlist. âWe have the potential to transform lives if more people knew how easy and impactful it is to donate a kidney,â she explains. Her outreach includes creating safe spaces for questions, addressing common misconceptions, and fostering a culture of generosity.
The Power of Landmarkâs Training
Dr. Waterman credits her experience with Landmark programs for shaping her leadership and resilience. âLandmark taught me to dream big and stand for something greater than myself,â she shares. Through coaching and training, she developed the skills to navigate challenges, inspire collaboration, and lead transformative change. âI see myself as a droplet in the ocean of this work, but together with others, we create waves.â
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