Gift of Life

Gift of Life 131 The Organ Transplant Podcast
2026-10-27 08:20:18

On Episode 131 of Gift of Life – The Organ Transplant Podcast, BJ Odom welcomes Jay Waddell, whose life changed dramatically after suffering two mini-strokes followed by a major stroke. The damage ultimately affected his heart and led to something he never expected — the need for a heart transplant.

Jay had always enjoyed journaling and documenting life. When he learned he needed a new heart, he began searching for information about heart transplantation and connecting with others who had traveled similar roads.

Those connections introduced Jay to incredible stories of survival, courage, gratitude, and second chances. He eventually brought those stories together in his book, “Voices From the Heart: A Collection of Inspiring Heart Transplant Stories,” available on Amazon.

In this episode, Jay shares his own journey from strokes and heart damage to transplantation, what he learned from others in the transplant community, and how those experiences inspired him to preserve and share their stories in a book.

It’s another powerful reminder that behind every transplant is a story — and every story has a voice worth hearing.

Let’s Stay Connected

Email: giftoflifepodcast@gmail.com

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BJ Odom’s Book

More Parts Than A Chicken Nugget — A story of survival, second chances, and the family that held it all together.

Grab your copy today on Amazon in paperback or eBook.

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Together, we’re raising awareness, honoring donors and donor families, and celebrating the incredible gift of new beginnings.

Thank you for being part of our life-giving community.