Lifebanc Commends The Lifesaving Gift Of Organ Donation As Bernie Kosar Receives Liver Transplant

Media Release

MEDIA CONTACT
Matt Erman
Manager of Marketing Services
Lifebanc
Matt.erman@lifebanc.org

CLEVELAND, OH — November 17, 2025 — Lifebanc, Northeast Ohio’s organ procurement organization, extends its deepest gratitude to the donor and donor family whose selfless decision made possible the liver transplant received by beloved Cleveland Browns legend Bernie Kosar.

While specific medical details remain private, the successful transplant highlights the profound impact of organ donation and the extraordinary generosity of individuals who choose to give the gift of life.

“Every organ donor is a hero,” said Katie Payne, CEO of Lifebanc. “Bernie Kosar’s transplant is a powerful reminder that organ donation saves lives every day. We honor the donor and their family for their courage, compassion, and willingness to help others during a time of immense personal loss.”

More than 3,000 Ohioans are currently waiting for a lifesaving organ transplant. Lifebanc encourages community members to register as organ, eye, and tissue donors and to share their decision with family members.

“Our thoughts are with Mr. Kosar and his loved ones as he begins his healing journey, and with the donor family whose remarkable act of kindness made this moment possible,” added Katie Payne. “Stories like this reflect the true humanity behind donation.”

During this season of Giving Thanks, we give thanks to all registered organ donors. And for those that are not, individuals can register their donation decision at www.Lifebanc.org or at any Ohio BMV.

About Lifebanc
Lifebanc is Northeast Ohio’s non-profit organ, eye and tissue recovery organization with a mission to save and heal lives. The organization serves over four million people and works with 80 hospitals in a 20-county area. Lifebanc facilitates the organ, eye and tissue recovery and donation processes, provides extensive care and support services to donor families and facilitates community outreach and education programs to encourage registration on the Ohio Donor Registry. For more information on Lifebanc or to register as an organ, eye and tissue donor visit www.lifebanc.org.

Stories

The stories of our donor and recipient families are powerful, moving celebrations of life, hope, and love that get to the heart of why we do what we do, and the difference we can all make. Lifebanc believes that anyone can be a hero – and we see it every day in the generous decisions of people and families who choose and support organ and tissue donation. We’d like you to meet some of these heroes, and some of the Northeast Ohio neighbors they are helping.

See All Stories

Ryan

Ryan

Donating to a stranger ensured his mom received a lifesaving transplant. See Ryan's Story
P.J.

P.J.

Standing on his own two feet is an amazing accomplishment. See P.J.'s Story

Michael

Michael was destined to be a superstar. See Michael's Story

Our mission is to heal & save lives, and despite the circumstances, our team continues to make every effort to ensure fulfillment of our mission.

All donation and transplantation work will continue as usual.

Programming, in-person meetings and external events are on-hold until further notice.

We are closely monitoring the situation and will deliver updates via social media, our website, and email communications as things progress.

Thank you for your continued support of Lifebanc and our community.