Atlanta, Ga. (May 1, 2024) – Piedmont is proud to announce that it is joining the Living Donor Circle of Excellence. This program, an initiative by the American Society of Transplantation (AST), celebrates employers who implement internal policies that provide salary support to their employees who choose to become a living organ donor.

“Piedmont’s purpose is for our employees to make a positive difference in every life they touch, and there is no better example of living our Piedmont Promise than serving as a living organ donor,” said Vicki Cansler, Piedmont’s Chief Human Resources Officer. “When our altruistic-minded employees step up to provide the life-giving gift of organ donation, we are proud to offer them the practical support they might require.”

John Gill, M.D., founder of the Living Donor Circle of Excellence said, “Living donors are heroes amongst us. Their gift is life-saving for patients in need of a kidney or liver transplant and has a huge positive impact on society. Patients facing life-threatening diseases are able to live normal lives, raise their families, and participate in their communities. By supporting living organ donors, we are also building stronger communities.”

Today, more than 100,000 patients are waiting for a life-saving kidney or liver transplant. Of the transplants performed in 2021, living donors accounted for 24% of kidney transplants and 6% of liver transplants. Financial disincentives are a barrier for many potential living organ donors. Living organ donation typically includes a four- to six-week recovery period and many will use their vacation time or take unpaid absences during this period to donate.

The Circle encourages other employers to follow Piedmont to help others in need of life-saving organ transplants.

Learn more about AST’s Living Donor Circle of Excellence.