A New Lease on Life: Jo’s Journey as a Liver Transplant Recipient
- Category: News
- Posted On:
- Written By: Nikki Cowan
Jo Peterson—a Mile Bluff team member, proud mother, grandmother, and recent liver recipient—shares her powerful story of strength, patience, and incredible impact of organ donation.
In October 2015, Jo was diagnosed with Primary Sclerosing Cholangitis (PSC)—a rare autoimmune disease that affects the liver. The disease progressed over the years, and in 2021, she was told that she would need a liver transplant. Unlike many liver diseases, PSC doesn’t follow a predictable path. Unfortunately, this meant Jo’s condition didn’t qualify her for an immediate transplant.
She didn’t give up. With the help of her family, they started a Facebook group in search of a living donor. Many kind-hearted people came forward, but due to strict health requirements, there were no matches. And so, Jo waited—three long years.
In February of 2024, Jo received the call that a liver had become available. Overcome with the news, she had to ask the nurse to repeat herself. “I was shocked,” Jo recalled. Just two days later, she underwent surgery to receive the transplant that would change her life.
Throughout her journey, Jo expressed deep appreciation for the overwhelming support she received from her family, friends, community—and especially her coworkers. "The love and support from the staff here at Mile Bluff have been absolutely incredible," she said. “Even the nurses at the hospital commented on how amazing it was to see so much encouragement from an employer.”
Today, Jo is doing well. She’s back to work, exercising, and enjoying every day with more energy and gratitude than ever before. “Being a recipient has changed my life. It’s given me many more years to spend with my family, and I’m very grateful.”
Jo continues to advocate for organ donation, encouraging everyone to consider becoming a donor. “I share my story so that others can see the impact of becoming a donor.”
For more information on how to become a donor, visit, donatelife.net.
