CEO starts kidney donation chain that saves multiple lives
In an extraordinary demonstration of leadership through personal sacrifice, Michael Crowley, CEO of the National Kidney Foundation of Wisconsin, donated his kidney to a complete stranger in January 2025, setting off a donation chain that has saved multiple lives.
Leading by example
Crowley's journey began when he learned about the critical shortage of kidney donors. Despite heading an organization dedicated to kidney health, he realized he could do more than advocate — he could act. After months of testing and preparation, Crowley became a living donor, giving his kidney to someone he had never met.
"As CEO of the National Kidney Foundation, I see the statistics every day," Crowley explained. "Over 90,000 people are waiting for a kidney transplant, and 12 people die daily waiting. I realized I could be part of the solution."
The ripple effect
Crowley's donation triggered what transplant coordinators call a 'donation chain' — when his kidney went to a recipient, that person's incompatible but willing donor gave to another person, and so on. The chain that began with Crowley's gift has now facilitated five transplants, with the potential for more.
Dr. Amanda Torres, the transplant surgeon who performed Crowley's surgery, noted the unique impact: "When someone in Michael's position makes this choice, it sends a powerful message. We've seen a 30% increase in living donor inquiries since his story went public."
Inspiring colleagues
Perhaps the most moving outcome has been the inspiration Crowley provided to his own team. Leigh Anne Mixon, a colleague at the Foundation, was so moved by witnessing transplant recipients at the Transplant Games that she decided to become a living donor herself in November 2024.
"Seeing Michael's courage and meeting the athletes at the Transplant Games — people who were given a second chance at life — I knew I had to act," Mixon shared. Her donation has also initiated its own chain, multiplying the impact.
Breaking down barriers
Crowley's public donation has helped address common misconceptions about living kidney donation. Many people don't realize that humans can live normal, healthy lives with one kidney, or that laparoscopic surgery has made the procedure much less invasive than in the past.
"I was back to work in three weeks and running again in six weeks," Crowley reported. "The temporary discomfort was nothing compared to knowing I've given someone their life back."
A new model of leadership
Crowley's action has sparked discussions about what true leadership means in the nonprofit healthcare sector. By literally giving a piece of himself, he's demonstrated a level of commitment that goes beyond traditional advocacy.
The National Kidney Foundation has since launched the "Leaders Who Give" campaign, encouraging other executives and community leaders to consider living donation. Several CEOs from other health organizations have already begun the screening process.
The continuing chain
As of February 2025, the donation chains started by Crowley and Mixon have resulted in 11 successful transplants. Each recipient has committed to sharing their story to inspire others, creating what transplant coordinators call a "chain of gratitude."
One recipient, Maria Gonzalez, whose daughter was able to donate to another person because of Crowley's initial gift, expressed what many feel: "He didn't just save one life. He created a miracle that keeps growing. My family will be forever grateful."
A challenge to others
Crowley continues to use his platform to advocate for living donation, but now he speaks from personal experience. "If you're healthy and able, consider being tested," he urges. "You have the power to save a life — possibly many lives — and still live your own to the fullest."
As the donation chains continue to grow, Crowley's initial act of generosity serves as a powerful reminder that individual actions can create waves of positive change. In the world of organ donation, one person's courage truly can mean life for many.