Elaine Perlman - An Unstoppable Force in Living Organ Donation Advocacy
Elaine Perlman, a former educator turned organ donation advocate, exemplifies a commitment to creating positive change in the world of healthcare. With a career spanning over three decades in education, Elaine's life took a profound turn following her son's decision to donate a kidney to a stranger. This personal connection to organ donation fueled her passion for advocacy, leading her to become the Executive Director of Waitlist Zero. In 2020, Elaine's personal connection to organ donation deepened when she donated her kidney, starting a donation chain that saved the lives of individuals in multiple states. This chain, initiated through the National Kidney Registry, underscores the transformative power of living organ donations.
As the Executive Director of Waitlist Zero, Elaine is at the forefront of a movement to eliminate the waitlist for kidney and liver recipients. She works tirelessly, not only in an administrative capacity but also as a volunteer mentor for prospective donors with the National Kidney Donation Organization. Her focus is on educating and persuading congressional leaders at both the state and national levels about the life-saving impact of living donation. Elaine's advocacy has led to significant legislative successes, including the passing of the Living Donor Support Act in New York State. She is currently collaborating with Colorado legislator Manny Ramirez on a bill, the CARE for Living Donors Act, that provides substantial benefits to living donors, aiming to further incentivize organ donation. Very recently, Elaine and her son, Abie, testified in favor of the bill’s passage in front of the State Health Committee.
A significant part of Elaine's work involves dispelling misconceptions about organ donation. She educates people on the safety of the process, often using her own experience and her son's perspectives to reassure and encourage potential donors. Elaine emphasizes the growing need for living organ donors, focusing on kidney donations. She aims to shift the current scenario from a waitlist of patients to a waitlist of willing donors while advising on post-donation care, including avoiding certain medications and lifestyle adjustments. Her commitment extends to mentoring recent kidney recipients in person which she will be doing this summer.
Outside her advocacy work, Elaine's passion for life is evident in her love for painting school murals and her involvement in nutrition education. She believes strongly in preventive health education, particularly in the context of kidney disease, and mentors individuals on plant-based diets through programs like Plant Powered Metro New York. Elaine's dedication extends to her involvement with various organizations, including the National Kidney Foundation and the Coalition to Modify NOTA. Her role in these organizations reflects her comprehensive approach to organ donation advocacy.
To follow Elaine's inspiring journey and advocacy work in living organ donation, visit her website, elaineperlman.com, and her YouTube channel (linked) for informative content. Her story is a testament to the power of personal experience in driving change and making a lasting impact in the world of healthcare.