The transplant community is celebrating a historic milestone: the 1 millionth transplant performed in the U.S. That is more transplants performed than in any other country, according to the United Network for Organ Sharing.

This incredible milestone is possible thanks to the generosity of organ donors and their families.

As the largest integrated transplant provider in the U.S., Mayo Clinic is grateful to have helped so many patients get another chance at life. In 2021, Mayo Clinic transplant surgeons performed 1,742 organ transplants. Here are examples of Mayo Clinic patients’ lives forever changed by a transplant.

College athlete overcomes COVID-19 with liver transplant

Jaleezia Gibson, a 19-year-old college student and track athlete from Pennsylvania, is thought to be the first patient at Mayo Clinic in Rochester to undergo a liver transplant while infected with COVID-19. See the full story.

Watch: College athlete overcomes COVID-19 with liver transplant.

A bond beyond Brotherhood

The bond between soldiers is something civilians can have a hard time grasping. They rely on each other and have each other's back, especially when things are at their worst. The two men you're about to meet share that bond, and it's as strong now as it ever was.

Two friends and former Green Berets, Tim Reynolds and Kevin Rasband, have always been there for each other. Recently at Mayo Clinic in Arizona, Kevin donated his kidney to his longtime friend.  See the full story.

Watch: A bond beyond the brotherhood

Unique transplant technique offers hope to lung patients

Lobar transplants offer patients who would not otherwise be able to receive two lungs the chance of a new improved quality of life. Harold Winsett, of Florida, is one such patient. See the full story.

Watch: Harold Winsett's story

Mayo Clinic Q&A podcast: Father-daughter duo taking part in Transplant Games of America

Carly Kelly was born with autosomal recessive polycystic kidney disease, a disease that not only affects the kidneys, but also can lead to liver problems. At age 8, Carly had her first organ transplant, receiving a kidney from her father. Now 27 years old, Carly is doing well and hasn't let her transplants slow her down.

Recently, Carly and her father competed in the 2022 Transplant Games of America.  Hear the full story.

Watch: Carly and Tim Kelly share their transplant journey.

Joelle’s journey to a new heart

Joelle Hammann, a competitive figure skating teen, was diagnosed with the rare condition of genetic arrhythmogenic right ventricular cardiomyopathy. It meant the teen would need a new heart. See the full story.

Watch: Joelle's journey to a new heart.

While this is a milestone to celebrate, it is important to remember that nearly 106,000 people in the U.S. are waiting for a lifesaving organ transplant. Sadly, an estimated 17 people die every day waiting for a transplant.

Consider registering to become an organ donor. Also, learn more about living organ donation.

Related posts:

• Florida transplant team celebrates 500 heart transplant milestone
• Mayo Clinic Minute: Why more liver donors are needed
• Expert Alert: 5 reasons to consider becoming an organ donor

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