Turning Loss into Hope: Kristen Cowan’s Story
October 21, 2026
In a heartfelt podcast interview, donor mother Kristen Cowan reflects on the loss of her 13.5-month-old son, Rylen, to bacterial meningitis in 2017. Through the pain of losing her son, Kristen found a way to offer hope to others through organ donation, helping save five lives and creating a lasting legacy in his honor.
Kristen shares how she continues to celebrate Rylen’s life through the Smilin’ Rylen Foundation, which promotes organ donation awareness and helps families in crisis by covering hospital parking pass fees. Her journey is a powerful reminder of how one family’s generosity can change lives and how sharing personal stories can inspire others to register as donors and support families navigating difficult times.
To listen to the Inside the Children’s Hospital podcast, click here.
