What I Have Learned Since My Heart Transplant | Ava Kaufman | TEDxUTulsa

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  • čas přidán 27. 08. 2024
  • What I Have Learned Since My Heart Transplant Ava Kaufman was born in the Bronx. Attending New York University with a double major in Dance Therapy and Theatre Arts. As a dancer, she toured with Gloria Gaynor, Donna Summer, and Jo Jo Smith. As a marketing executive at Capezio in New York, she oversaw the transition from dance-wear into fashion. In Los Angeles, she created a multi-million dollar transportation company with huge hotelier clients. In 2009 Ava had an emergency heart transplant, and in 2011, began the non-profit Ava's Heart, working tirelessly for transplant patients. In 2021 she became a CNN Hero, for her work in the transplant and organ donation community. This talk was given at a TEDx event using the TED conference format but independently organized by a local community. Learn more at www.ted.com/tedx

Komentáře • 87

  • @erikdangor
    @erikdangor Před 2 měsíci

    Seeing the personal sacrifices she made, like losing her business and going broke, really highlights her dedication to helping others. What an incredible person.

  • @jettseverson
    @jettseverson Před měsícem

    It was so powerful when you said that by helping these transplant patients, you're saving lives just as much as the surgeons themselves. And I agree, you're not just providing housing - you're a crucial part of their care.

  • @therealdualippa
    @therealdualippa Před 2 měsíci

    The way she talks about her promise to God and giving back is really powerful. Shows how a single event can change not just the course of someone's life but also the spiritual value

  • @scottvboland
    @scottvboland Před měsícem

    I never thought about the impact on the donor's family before. It’s great that her Heart also supports them in such a meaningful way.

  • @haleeisener
    @haleeisener Před 4 měsíci +1

    The journey from a heart transplant recipient to a champion for others facing similar challenges is nothing short of heroic. It's people like her who inspire true change.

  • @bilbobaggins3rd
    @bilbobaggins3rd Před 3 měsíci

    The communal housing she's set up sounds amazing, especially for the stuff she says around the 6:45 mark. Connecting with people who are sharing your experience is an invaluable part of healing.

  • @ximenajantonio
    @ximenajantonio Před 4 měsíci +1

    Wow what a woman. The energy she's sending out is incredible, so glad she's still on Earth and using her experience to spread awareness

  • @lloydbetances
    @lloydbetances Před 2 měsíci

    What a difference this woman is making for so many people... I've always felt the ability to turn your own personal tragedy or struggle into a source of experience and difference for others is not just incredible but one of the most admirable things a person can do.

  • @TheAffinityAdvocate
    @TheAffinityAdvocate Před 3 měsíci

    What an impactful message! Her story is a poignant reminder of the human side of medical science and the impact of community support. Her work is a testament to the power of giving back.

  • @thegreatemilianosantiago
    @thegreatemilianosantiago Před 3 měsíci

    Heartfelt and Motivating! It's amazing to see how she turned her life-threatening experience into a catalyst for change. Her efforts would be making such a huge difference for so many families.

  • @rheeslewis
    @rheeslewis Před 4 měsíci +1

    I didn't realize the transplant process was so complex, good to see some awareness around it

  • @iambruteforce
    @iambruteforce Před 2 měsíci

    Idk if I could stay as positive and upbeat as this lady did after going through something so traumatic and life-threatening. Have a whole lotta respect for her though

  • @kalestanslink
    @kalestanslink Před měsícem

    Your passion for this cause is just radiating off the screen. Watching you talk, I can really feel how personal and important this mission is for you, and it's so lovely to see someone so dedicated to helping others just for the sake of it.

  • @robertjoinersr
    @robertjoinersr Před 3 měsíci

    Her story shows how personal struggles can lead to profound contributions to society

  • @thenextbigthingishere
    @thenextbigthingishere Před měsícem

    The fact that her nonprofit can house five families at a time is amazing. She's making such a big impact!

  • @alaskabaked
    @alaskabaked Před 2 měsíci

    I know it's a small part of this talk but when she said it was a soul-altering experience for her I literally got chills. I've often wondered about it like... I know we often speak metaphorically about our heart and how our spirit or spark or whatever you want to call it is inside there, and all the stuff about keeping people in your heart etc.

  • @aylamorris
    @aylamorris Před 3 měsíci

    Oh my stars the bit at the 10:40 mark had me instantly choked up.

  • @samuelygeissler
    @samuelygeissler Před měsícem

    You know, I expected this to be a standard medical success story, but you covered so much deeper emotional ground too. Really great talk, thank you.

  • @opheliaollogtren
    @opheliaollogtren Před 4 měsíci +1

    Oh wow the bit about her smelling Jade's hair... it's kind of incredible the way smell can trigger such strong reactions in our mind

    • @user-gc7mi6er4k
      @user-gc7mi6er4k Před 4 měsíci

      it was so very real----it truly saved my lifer

    • @opheliaollogtren
      @opheliaollogtren Před 4 měsíci

      @@user-gc7mi6er4k that's amazing and so wonderful 💜

  • @giacomots
    @giacomots Před 3 měsíci

    This is really interesting because let's be honest most of us aren't thinking about the inequality or issues of organ donation. I think it adds a pretty valuable perspective to the conversation on healthcare reform.

  • @revkaelenelord
    @revkaelenelord Před 2 lety +1

    A very vital speech for unsure hearts to hear. So many wonder if a transplant makes them alive again. What I got from the speech, is that the gift of life does continue.

  • @elliotneason
    @elliotneason Před 3 měsíci

    Much respect for turning pain into purpose.

  • @dogoodbookkeeping
    @dogoodbookkeeping Před 2 lety +4

    Wow Ava, what an incredible story! Thank you for spreading awareness around these issues! I had no idea!

  • @tedbuden
    @tedbuden Před měsícem

    not being able to move or speak must have been terrifying. Her story and recovery is nothing short of a miracle.

  • @nonah3215
    @nonah3215 Před rokem +2

    My father had a heart transplant, and he is absolutely the same, still toxic, still abusive, still lacks empathy, plus the steroids/medications he’s on are making him even more mean and angry.

  • @barbaracondra8587
    @barbaracondra8587 Před 2 lety

    What an amazing story. Not only did she take us through her journey th regain her health, she also challenged us to think about hiw our experiences should be used to bless someone else.

  • @tkoop63
    @tkoop63 Před 2 lety +1

    Great talk and yes we need to change the medical system to make it equitable for all

  • @JillianHesselPilates
    @JillianHesselPilates Před 2 lety +2

    Beautiful and compelling speech, Ava! Congratulations on all your success in getting the word out about the incredible work you are doing, and your appeal for all of us to do more. The need is so great, and the reward of giving back is incalculable ❤️❤️❤️

  • @mojysadri215
    @mojysadri215 Před 2 lety +1

    Such an amazing journey of recovering health and giving back, Ava! Congratulations on your beautiful speech which opens our minds to see the importance of being a organ donor and much more!

  • @trentonbennettVO
    @trentonbennettVO Před 2 lety +1

    Amazing, and so much information that I didn't know about how the system works and what people go through to get a transplant. Thank you for sharing this incredible story!

  • @theflowerhead
    @theflowerhead Před 9 měsíci

    That was beautiful, I have goosebumps.

  • @emmifortin
    @emmifortin Před 2 lety

    Ava, so very well done! You've not only shared moving real-life stories with us (that brought me to tears), but also impactful statistics and information about the transplant process. This message needs to be shared.

    • @avakaufman3205
      @avakaufman3205 Před 2 lety +1

      Thank you Emmi for your love and support------i adore you and your Red Dress

  • @bentennant9722
    @bentennant9722 Před 2 lety

    Ava - grateful you’ve taken this brave step to show your heart and journey on a global stage! You’re going to change a LOT of lives

  • @leonavonhaslingen2437
    @leonavonhaslingen2437 Před 2 lety +1

    Thank you for sharing your story. I am guessing an Ava's Heart is needed in every major city where hospitals do transplants. You've got me thinking!

  • @hendlori11
    @hendlori11 Před 2 lety

    This is such a sad human inequity. 😢 What an inspiring story, Ava. Thank you for sharing and all that you are doing to save lives.

  • @CoachLove
    @CoachLove Před 2 lety

    "Appreciate every moment." Thank you for sharing these life-changing stories.

  • @illsuive
    @illsuive Před rokem

    Thank you Ava. ❤️

  • @gavinsnana
    @gavinsnana Před 2 lety

    Wow! Just WOW! I learned, my heart was touched, I’m sobered, and grateful for my gift of daily breath. I deeply respect the work of Ava’s Heart and will look for your website. The story of the mother hearing, her son’s heart beat touched me deeply. Thank you Ava for your work and your wonderful talk.

  • @ruthrodriguez7694
    @ruthrodriguez7694 Před 2 lety

    Truly amazing Ava. Just hearing your testimony has filled me with hope and inspiration. Your a wonderful miracle. Love to you and yours.

  • @bobbywie
    @bobbywie Před 3 měsíci

    So informative! I had no idea about these transplant issues.

  • @percyd1727
    @percyd1727 Před 2 měsíci

    Gosh I can't imagine how scary that initial feeling would have been. Not knowing what's going on inside your own body is so frustrating

  • @lucylewand9577
    @lucylewand9577 Před 2 lety

    So powerful Ava. I too had no idea. Thanks for all you’re doing. The message about donors was also enlightening.

  • @marykotuba6901
    @marykotuba6901 Před 2 lety +1

    Thank you for educating me about a topic I never put much thought into, but will now.

  • @williambabbitt6015
    @williambabbitt6015 Před 2 lety +1

    Thanks for sharing, prayers to you and your family

  • @LeahSkurdal
    @LeahSkurdal Před 2 lety

    What an inspiring story! Such an important message that I didn't know anything about. Yes! Support local non-profits.

  • @waynewatkins4902
    @waynewatkins4902 Před 2 lety

    Blessings Ava. Thank You

  • @dogeboixx
    @dogeboixx Před 2 lety +1

    Well done Ava!

  • @EddySmits
    @EddySmits Před 2 lety +1

    My deepest respect for you Ava!

  • @danielfrancis8587
    @danielfrancis8587 Před 2 lety

    Ava, you're just amazing! Love Colorado Dan. Hope to see you soon!

  • @dillonbarr9828
    @dillonbarr9828 Před 2 lety

    Absolute amazing message and heartfelt story. Signing up to be an organ donor now!

  • @henrikolsson8786
    @henrikolsson8786 Před 2 lety +3

    Just signed up to donate organs after watching this

    • @avakaufman3205
      @avakaufman3205 Před 2 lety +1

      Thank you------it is an amazing gift--life. god bless you.

    • @avakaufman3205
      @avakaufman3205 Před 2 lety

      that is wonderful-------thank you--the magic of the door life goes on

    • @avakaufman3205
      @avakaufman3205 Před 2 lety

      Amazing

  • @lindsayallinson2643
    @lindsayallinson2643 Před 2 lety

    Beautiful talk, Ava - well done!

  • @dr.elisaCanThrive
    @dr.elisaCanThrive Před 2 lety

    Very informative!!

  • @lachiepturner
    @lachiepturner Před 2 měsíci

    that little girl wondering if it was okay to pray for a new heart because it means someone has to die...wow that just broke my heart. kids shouldn't have to grapple with thoughts like that.

  • @donald-hamilton
    @donald-hamilton Před 2 měsíci

    I had no idea about all the struggles transplant patients face even after the surgery itself.

  • @lucastanard
    @lucastanard Před 2 měsíci

    Sad that it's on the individual whose been through this to make a difference and support others going through it instead of just support from those running our country. That's not a slight to all her efforts - she's doing an incredible task - just saying the responsibility should not be on her

  • @jose485
    @jose485 Před 4 měsíci

    buen video.

  • @TheRealShinedownShimmy
    @TheRealShinedownShimmy Před 2 měsíci

    Wow things are so different in the states. Seems like you guys have to jump through all kinds of hoops that just don't exist in other parts of the world.

  • @TracieJLee
    @TracieJLee Před 2 měsíci

    "souls go to heaven, organs don't" - what a simple but poignant way to encourage organ donation.

  • @TheShadowComesAlive
    @TheShadowComesAlive Před měsícem

    Okay can we just go back to the bit about her business partners embezzling money from her?? Like...what?? What kind of people do that to someone whose going through something like a heart transplant

  • @Djmst0
    @Djmst0 Před 2 měsíci

    😅😮😮😮😮

  • @genagarbo9548
    @genagarbo9548 Před 2 měsíci

    Yeah the healthcare system is effed, we know.