Celebrating Black History Month: A Conversation with Woodlhey Ambroise, MSHA, MBA, RRT, RCP, CPTC, LifeGift Senior Director of Organ Operations and Surgical Recovery

What does Black History Month mean to you?

Black History Month is an opportunity to remind everyone of the many contributions African Americans have made to our country. There are countless innovations and inventions that many people don’t realize were created by African Americans. It’s a time to honor those achievements and celebrate the lasting impact they’ve had on our society.

Do you have a personal connection to organ donation?

Yes, I do. My uncle was waiting for a heart transplant, and unfortunately, in December 2024, he lost his battle. That experience made organ donation even more personal and meaningful to me.

Is there anyone who influenced your journey to becoming who you are today?

I would have to say my mom. She is Afro-Latina, like I am, and she is from Haiti. She completed both high school and college here and became a nurse. No matter what, she always made sure we never went without and had the very best. She always put us first. I am where I am today because of her.

Is there anything else you want the community to know about organ donation?

What you see on TV is not what organ donation is really like. Organ donation is a chance to give someone a second chance, a new tomorrow. Saying yes to being an organ donor gives families more time together. It gives families the chance to take vacations, a child the opportunity to go off to college, and a dad the ability to walk his daughter down the aisle. Organ donation truly saves lives.