Ochsner Transplant Institute

12/17/2025

Meet Teion Johnson, a liver transplant scheduler at Ochsner Medical Center – New Orleans!

For the past 11 years, Teion Johnson, a proud New Orleanian from the West Bank, has been an important part of Ochsner’s liver transplant team. As one of the first voices patients hear, Teion helps guide them through one of the most life-changing journeys they’ll ever face. As a scheduler for the liver transplant department, Teion collects and processes new referrals, schedules appointments and ensures every detail is in place for patients’ care -from clinic visits to the many steps of the transplant process.

For Teion, what started as just a job has turned into a calling. “I love being part of a team that helps save lives and gives people their second chance at life. We support our patients, and we support each other,” she shared.

The most rewarding part of her role? The patients and their caregivers. “Hearing ‘thank you—no one has ever explained this to us before’ means everything to me. Caregivers carry so much, and sometimes they cry because it’s hard. Helping patients and their family feel supported during such a life-changing moment never gets old.”

Teion also finds joy in the little things, like talking to patients on the phone and looking up where they’re from on the department’s map of Louisiana. “It really puts into perspective how far people come for care,” she said. And the bond she shares with her coworkers? “We truly feel like a work family.”

Teion wishes more people knew about Ochsner’s transplant program and the many services it offers to support patients and their families, from caregiver support groups to behind-the-scenes resources that make the transplant journey smoother.

💙 Teion’s dedication and compassion are a shining example of the incredible work happening every day at Ochsner.

This holiday season, give the gift of life. Learn more about transplants at Ochsner or sign up to become an organ donor today: https://ow.ly/JLy550XKQhM.

12/12/2025

The holiday spirit was in full swing at the Ochsner Transplant Institute Holiday Party on Dec. 5! 🎄

Transplant recipients, donors, their families and our incredible transplant team came together to celebrate the gift of life and the power of generosity. Wishing you and your loved ones a joyful and healthy holiday season! 💙💚

Learn more about the Ochsner Transplant Institute: https://www.ochsner.org/services/organ-transplants

12/11/2025

Last summer, Doyle C. saw a news story about a man in need of a kidney. At first, he didn’t think much of it, but the story stayed on his heart. After praying, he felt a clear calling: “God was telling me it was my job.”

The man he would eventually help was a former first responder who had spent years risking his life to save others. Doyle, an anesthesia technician at Sacred Heart Hospital in Pensacola, Florida, began the long process of becoming a living donor. Despite his own health concerns, every test came back clear. “I was a perfect match for everything,” he said. “It was God and me fulfilling his purpose for me.”

On May 12, Doyle donated his kidney at Ochsner Health in New Orleans. The surgery was a success, and the recipient’s new kidney began working immediately. “It felt like watching a miracle happen in real time,” Doyle shared.

Recovery brought challenges but also deep transformation. Doyle calls it “both challenging and miraculous,” adding that what began as one of the hardest experiences of his life became “one of the greatest blessings.”

Today, Doyle encourages others to consider becoming living donors, especially during a season centered around giving. “At worst, you get a thorough physical done for free. At best, you change someone’s life and give them more time with their family.”

If you feel called to step forward, Doyle’s message is simple: listen. “The journey isn’t easy, but it’s sacred. You’re literally giving someone their life back.”

Let Doyle’s story inspire you to give the ultimate gift this holiday season, the gift of life. 💚💙

Learn more about becoming a living donor at Ochsner Health and help bring hope to families waiting for a second chance. https://ow.ly/ibEi50XH7e0

12/08/2025

It’s the most wonderful time of the year! ✨

The Ochsner Transplant Institute’s annual holiday party on Dec. 5 was an incredible celebration of hope and generosity. Our transplant team was joined by transplant recipients, donors and their families to honor the spirit of giving.

We wish you and your loved ones a healthy and happy holiday season! 💚💙

Learn more about the Ochsner Transplant Institute here: https://ow.ly/UXB350XFMxh.

11/27/2025

Wondering if turkey is really to blame for feeling sleepy after your Thanksgiving meal? Get the facts about turkey, tryptophan and what’s actually behind those post-dinner yawns.

Turkey is often blamed for post-Thanksgiving dinner drowsiness, with its high tryptophan levels cited as the reason. Is it true?

11/26/2025

Managing acid reflux doesn’t have to be complicated. Jenny Kuo, MD, and Victoria Smith, MD, share eight simple tips to help you take control of your digestive health and feel your best.🔥

Discover proven strategies for acid reflux relief and GERD management. Get tips for heartburn prevention through lifestyle changes, medications, and advanced treatments.

11/26/2025

A single act of selflessness of living organ donation can change two lives forever. And it did for Ember, a pediatric liver transplant recipient at Ochsner Children’s, and Erin Dupre, the living donor who gave her a second chance at life. In early August, the two of them met for the first time in New Orleans, Louisiana, and reminded us of the power of the life-saving impact of living organ donation.

Erin and her husband, Matt, were joined by Ember and her family, along with John Seal, MD, and David Bruce, MD, kidney and liver transplant surgeons at Ochsner Health. The connection between Erin and Ember was instant, as captured in the heartfelt photos from the day.

“This is so special that we all get to be together, and you get to meet each other for the first time,” said Dr. Seal, surgical director for living donor liver transplants at Ochsner Medical Center - New Orleans. “I think I can speak on behalf of our whole team that this is the most special thing that we do. It’s why we went into medicine. And it’s really a testament to extraordinary people like Erin who are willing to do this.”

For pediatric patients like Ember, a living donor transplant is more than a procedure – it’s a lifeline. Living donors can be direct donors, such as family members or friends, or non-directed donors, like Erin, who selflessly donate to recipients they’ve never met. Non-directed donations are especially transformative by offering hope and a future to those who once faced uncertainty.

“I am grateful that I got the chance to donate to Ember and that Ochsner Health and Ochsner Children’s were able to make it happen,” Erin said. “I feel blessed to have the opportunity to do it and that God picked me to help you.”

At Ochsner, we are honored to facilitate these life-changing journeys and witness the resilience of our patients and the generosity of donors like Erin who inspire us every day.

To Ember, we’re beyond excited for your bright future. To Erin, we’re humbled and grateful for your compassion and selflessness.

This holiday season, consider giving the greatest gift of all - the gift of life. Learn more about the power of living donation and how you can make a difference by visiting our website: https://ow.ly/bp2e50Xx4eM.

11/25/2025

Ready for your holiday road trip?🎄Alyssa Lyon, MD, shares simple ways to make your drive safe, smooth and stress-free. From checking your car to staying alert, these helpful road trip tips will get you to your holiday destination safely.

You can also see how Ochsner Connected Anywhere brings expert care within easy reach, no matter where your journey takes you.

Driving home for the holidays? Read our holiday travel tips to ensure your road trip is safe, prepared for and stress-free.

11/25/2025

Seasonal affective disorder (SAD) is a type of depression that occurs most commonly in the fall and winter months. Psychiatrist Rachel Csaki, MD, explains how it is treated.

Seasonal affective disorder is more common in people living farther from the equator, where there are fewer daylight hours in the winter.

11/24/2025

Good posture can boost your comfort, confidence and overall health throughout the day. Dr. Nathan Harrison provides tips to help you stand, sit and move with better alignment and ease.

Learn simple posture tips for standing, sitting and sleeping to help relieve back pain. Discover how to improve your posture for better overall health.

11/24/2025

Psychologist Sunni Primeaux, PhD, discusses how ADHD affects adults and the treatments that can help.

While ADHD can present challenges to people affected by it, Ochsner offers treatments that can help.

11/24/2025

This inherited condition can interfere with your liver's ability to protect your lungs and other organs from infections or inhaled irritants.

11/21/2025

Join us in welcoming Ariana Hutcherson-Perry, PA-C, to the Ochsner Medical Complex - Clearview primary care team!

Hutcherson-Perry’s approach to care focuses on building lasting relationships with her patients. She is passionate about creating personalized, realistic health goals that fit each person’s lifestyle. Her clinical interests include women’s health, preventive care, nutrition and exercise.

Originally from Maryland, Hutcherson-Perry earned a Master of Health Sciences in Physician Assistant Studies from Xavier University of Louisiana. She takes time to listen and understand each patient’s needs, providing the highest quality of care.

Outside the clinic, she enjoys gardening, walking her dog and exploring new restaurants with her husband.

Learn more or schedule an appointment with Ariana Hutcherson-Perry: https://ow.ly/NLhl50XoJ1R

11/21/2025

Sisters Sally C. and Anne E. share more than just a family bond; they share a story of survival.

Both were diagnosed with the same type of lung cancer, adenocarcinoma. Thanks to proactive screening and the single-event anesthesia program at Ochsner MD Anderson Cancer Center, doctors were able to diagnose and treat their cancer on the same day.

From diagnosis to surgery to recovery, everything went smoothly for the sisters. Sally said she was home making turkey gumbo the day after her surgery.

Because of this innovative treatment, Sally and Anne are cancer-free and living life to the fullest.

"I no longer worry about, 'Do I have cancer?'" Anne said. "I’m grateful that there are people smarter than me that have figured out how to make cancer not so scary. And also how to diagnose it at an early stage so it’s not that life-altering diagnosis anymore."

Learn more about lung cancer care at Ochsner: https://www.ochsner.org/services/lung-cancer-multi-disciplinary-program/

See more of Sally and Anne's story: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=D8RsJ05dImg

11/20/2025

Is big toe pain slowing you down? GaChavis Green, DPM, shares tips for preventing and treating the most common causes of big toe joint pain, including turf toe, gout and osteoarthritis.

Discover common causes of big toe joint pain, including turf toe, gout and bunions, along with effective treatments and prevention tips to keep your feet healthy.

11/19/2025

Many people believe palliative care begins only at the end of life, but it can support patients and families at any stage of a serious illness. Our palliative medicine team focuses on easing pain, managing symptoms and helping you navigate the healthcare system with clarity and compassion.

In this short video, our experts share how early palliative care can bring comfort, dignity and confidence during difficult moments.

Find out how palliative care can help: https://ow.ly/uPgr50XuoZC

11/18/2025

Join us in welcoming Mallory K. Cantero, FNP, to the Ochsner Medical Complex - Clearview internal medicine team!

Cantero provides comprehensive primary care for patients with both chronic and acute conditions. She believes the patient-clinician relationship is built on trust and strives to create a safe, judgment-free space where patients can share their concerns openly.

A New Orleans native, Cantero earned a Bachelor of Science in Nursing from LSU Health Sciences Center and a Master of Science in Nursing from the University of Louisiana at Lafayette in 2015. She focuses on patient engagement and satisfaction and stays current with the latest clinical guidelines through continuing education.

Outside the clinic, she enjoys reading, watching her children's activities, exploring true-crime documentaries with her husband and cheering for the LSU Tigers.

Learn more or schedule an appointment with Mallory K. Cantero: https://ow.ly/ATk250XoIWe

11/17/2025

We are excited to welcome Dr. Peter Sawyer, our new pediatric and adult liver and kidney transplant surgeon, to Ochsner!

Dr. Sawyer brings a wealth of expertise in transplant surgery, having completed his fellowship in pediatric and abdominal transplant and hepato-pancreato-biliary surgery at Children’s Hospital of Los Angeles and the University of Southern California.

Dr. Sawyer earned his Doctor of Medicine degree and a Master’s in Genomic Medicine from the University of Miami in Miami, Florida and completed his general surgery residency at Ochsner Health in New Orleans. He holds board certification from the American Board of Surgery and actively participates in the American Society of Transplant Surgeons and the American College of Surgeons.

Before pursuing medicine, Dr. Sawyer studied economics, volunteered as a firefighter and spent five years in international journalism, focusing on global health. A native of Tallahassee, Florida, he enjoys sailing, backpacking, woodworking and reading in his free time.

Please join us in giving Dr. Sawyer a warm welcome as he begins helping patients with liver and kidney transplants at Ochsner Health!

Learn more about Dr. Sawyer here: https://ow.ly/NAMi50XqJAg.

11/13/2025

Meet Ashley Parker, a registered nurse on the Ochsner Medical Center - New Orleans transplant unit who’s been part of the Ochsner family for six years!

Born and raised in Kenner, Louisiana, Ashley graduated from Archbishop Chapelle High School and earned her nursing degree from Chamberlain University in New Orleans. When she’s not caring for patients, you can find her cheering on her son at the baseball field, reading or spending time with her family.

For Ashley, nursing, and transplant medicine in particular, is truly in her blood. She shares, “My grandmother, Mary, was a nurse on this floor for years before she passed. My aunt, Celeste, has worked here for more than 25 years, and my mom, Michelle, is an apheresis nurse who performs transplant rejection treatments. I always say transplant medicine is in the Parker blood.”

Ashley says the most rewarding part of her job is watching patients get a new chance at life through organ transplantation. “We form connections with our patients as they are usually under our care on and off prior to and for at least a year after transplant. It is so rewarding to see these patients get a new chance at life by receiving a lifesaving organ," she said.

She also loves the team she works alongside every day: “Our unit feels like family. We’re always willing to help each other, and I’ve made lifelong friends here.”

Ashley is passionate about spreading awareness of the power of donation, something she knows firsthand. In 2015, she donated stem cells to a young woman battling cancer. “My gift of donation gave her more time on this earth with her family,” Ashley shared.

💚 Thank you, Ashley, for all you do each day!

Learn more about organ donation here: www.ochsner.org/save9

10/29/2025

Every day, thousands of people across the country wait and hope for the call that a liver is available. 💚

“Between 15% and 20% of patients die while waiting for a liver transplant,” said Dr. John Seal, transplant surgeon. “Living donation gives patients another chance. It’s the best tool we have to help them get better faster.”

Unlike traditional liver transplants, living donor liver transplantation can happen as soon as a suitable donor meets all the requirements. That means no anxious waiting for an organ and no risk of becoming too sick for surgery. Doctors schedule and plan the operation, giving both the donor and recipient time to prepare physically and emotionally.

For anyone considering becoming a living donor, Dr. Seal emphasizes that donor safety always comes first. “We screen donors to make sure the operation is safe for both the donor and recipient,” he said. “The liver regenerates to a normal size, so there’s no long-term concern with liver function. Donors can return to a normal life after recovering from surgery. The bond with the recipient is powerful, unique and lasts a lifetime. I have the highest respect and admiration for living donors who literally give a part of themselves to save a life.”

Many people don’t realize that the liver is the only organ in the body that can regenerate. Within weeks, both the donor’s and recipient’s livers grow back to full size. The results speak for themselves. Ninety-five percent of living donors say they would do it again.

Living donation changes two lives, the one who gives and the one who receives. 💛

👉 Sign up to become a living liver donor today and give someone the ultimate gift, a second chance at life. Learn more about living liver transplants at Ochsner here: https://ow.ly/1hGN50XjJoz

Ochsner Health is an integrated healthcare system with a mission to Serve, Heal, Lead, Educate and Innovate.

10/21/2025

Meet Angela Cotton, a registered nurse on the liver transplant surgical team at Ochsner Medical Center – New Orleans.

Angela grew up in LaPlace, Louisiana and as she puts it, she “grew up as a nurse at Ochsner.” Angela discovered her passion for surgery early in nursing school after watching a procedure. “I immediately knew the OR was where I wanted to be!” she said.

Now celebrating 14 years at Ochsner, Angela calls the liver transplant team her “home.” She’s currently training to become a registered nurse first assistant, a registered nurse who assists a surgeon during surgery, so she can play an even greater role in transplants and assist surgeons at the bedside.

“I’m rewarded daily in the operating room,” Angela shared. “We bring a sick patient into the operating room and give them a gift that changes their course dramatically. It’s hard work and long hours, but I feel proud to make a difference in someone’s life.”

For Angela, the teamwork and camaraderie in the operating room are unmatched. “Performing a transplant takes many, many members. No one person can do it alone, and we’ve become a second family. I’ve spent more hours with these men and women than with anyone else.”

Outside of work, Angela enjoys spending time with her husband, Matthew, and keeping up with their three kids.

“I wish more people knew how grateful transplant recipients and their families are for this gift,” she said. “I’ve held their hands as they drift off to sleep, and they’re so thankful for the donor’s sacrifice and the team who makes it possible.”

Thank you, Angela, for all you do each day!

Learn more about liver transplants at Ochsner by visiting: https://ow.ly/6CIB50XfIzt

Ochsner Health is a leader in liver transplants offering one of the most trusted programs nationally located in New Orleans, Louisiana.

10/14/2025

Please join us in welcoming Dr. Jenny Ngo, an abdominal transplant surgeon at the Ochsner Transplant Institute in New Orleans.

Dr. Ngo brings exceptional expertise in kidney, pancreas and liver transplantation, including advanced, minimally invasive techniques. Her distinguished background includes degrees from Duke University and Tulane School of Medicine, followed by a general surgery residency where she earned the esteemed "Esprit de corps" award.

A first-generation Asian American fluent in Vietnamese and Chinese, Dr. Ngo is a native of the Gulf Coast. She is deeply committed to expanding access to transplantation for underserved communities in the region she calls home. We are proud to have her leadership and vision as part of our team.

Learn more about Dr. Ngo here: https://ow.ly/QTlu50Xb6CU.

Jenny M. Ngo, MD, specializes in Liver Transplant Surgery, Transplant Surgery, Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, Kidney and Liver Transplant Surgery and Pancreas Transplantation at Ochsner Health in New Orleans, LA

10/01/2025

Kim N. lived a full and busy life as a fitness instructor, realtor, full-time employee, mom, grandmother and dog mom. But in August 2023, everything changed.

“Life took a small detour on Aug. 22, 2023, when I was admitted for kidney failure and diagnosed with stage 4 chronic kidney disease,” Kim said. “It was hard to process because I felt ‘fine.’”

Determined to keep moving forward, Kim continued teaching classes, working and making lifestyle changes. “But the harsh reality was that no matter what I did, the progression of the disease carried on,” she said.

In July 2024, Kim began the transplant process at the Ochsner Transplant Institute, where she learned about the option of living donation. Encouraged to share her story on social media, she reluctantly posted and was overwhelmed by the response.

“A week or so later, I made the post, and much to my very humbling surprise, it went basically viral! Talk about feeling loved!” Kim said. “To my understanding, there were hundreds of submissions.”

In September, Kim received the call: she had a living donor. She later learned her donor was Mandy M. “My lifesaver! A perfect match for me! To say I am blessed is an absolute understatement, and I have a new lifelong friend,” Kim said.

Kim is pictured below with her donor, Mandy M., who made this life-changing gift possible.

Kim underwent a robotic kidney transplant at Ochsner, becoming the second laparoscopic transplant recipient at the hospital. “One small delay, and we were off—and it went off without a hitch! Our kidney got right to work and is bringing in all-star numbers!” she said.

Kim never needed dialysis and now lives with a deep sense of gratitude. “I am full of gratitude daily, aware that this is nothing short of a miracle,” she said.

She credits her care team for supporting her every step of the way. “The care I received at home with Dr. Ashkar was absolutely amazing,” Kim said. “And as for Ochsner’s New Orleans Main Campus and my transplant team, the knowledge, care, compassion, and dedication have been phenomenal!”

Kim’s message to potential donors is simple and powerful:
“Do it! It is life-changing for everyone involved—even people you do not know!”

Thank you, Kim, for sharing your incredible journey and reminding us of the life-changing power of living donation.

Learn more about living kidney transplants at Ochsner and how you can make a difference: https://ow.ly/hZ1T50X55YY

The living donor kidney program connects potential donors to those in need of a kidney. Learn more about our potentially lifesaving program.

09/18/2025

The Ochsner Transplant Institute is at the forefront of advanced transplant care, delivering groundbreaking solutions to enhance patient outcomes.

Through robotic-assisted kidney transplantation, our team harnesses the power of minimally invasive technology, offering greater precision, smaller incisions and a faster recovery. This advanced approach helps reduce blood loss, lowers the risk of complications, and makes the transplant experience safer and less demanding for eligible patients.

As surgical director of kidney transplant, Dr. Dennis Sonnier is dedicated to helping patients achieve renewed health through innovation and expertise.

Learn more about kidney transplants at Ochsner here: https://ow.ly/u4LU50WWYEz.

Discover expert kidney and kidney-pancreas transplant care at the Ochsner Transplant Institute in New Orleans, Louisiana.