Spokespeople
GEORGE & ANN LOPEZ
George Lopez is known for his outrageously entertaining sense of humor and his hit ABC TV sitcom "The George Lopez Show.” However, a year ago, George became known for something other than making people laugh. Due to a genetic condition that caused kidney deterioration, George’s kidneys were only functioning at 18 percent and he needed a kidney transplant in order to survive. Performing for his television show was challenging as his low kidney function affected his energy level, but George refused to quit, and continued working until his show wrapped. George received the gift of life from his wife, Ann, through a kidney transplant. “Donating a kidney has not only taught me what I am capable of as a person, it has shown my daughter that through love and giving, anything is possible,” says Ann.
Today, both Ann and George Lopez are spokespeople for the National Kidney Foundation, helping raise awareness about the need for early detection for kidney disease and the importance of organ donation. At the upcoming U.S. Transplant Games, George will compete in the golf event and Ann will be the keynote speaker at the Living Donor Recognition Ceremony, among other roles they will play. “Both my wife and I are extremely excited about meeting fellow transplant recipients and other donor families at the National Kidney Foundation 2006 U.S. Transplant Games,” says George.
LARRY HAGMAN
Larry Hagman, who everyone loved to hate as J.R. Ewing on the hit TV series " Dallas," received a life-saving liver transplant in 1995 and has since become a champion of organ donation, serving as honorary chairman of the National Kidney Foundation U.S. Transplant Games since 1996. According to Hagman, "the U.S. Transplant Games are a true celebration of a second chance at life for transplant recipients from across the country." Since his transplant, Hagman starred in two " Dallas" made-for-TV movies as well as the series " Orleans" and two motion pictures, "Nixon" and "Primary Colors." He has also authored a book titled Hello Darlin', an autobiography of Hagman's life on and off-screen. At the Transplant Games, Hagman participates in the Opening Ceremonies, Donor Recognition Ceremony and medals presentations.
SEAN ELLIOTT
Sean Elliott suffered with kidney disease for six years before receiving a kidney transplant from his brother, Noel, in August of 1999. The San Antonio Spurs forward who sank the shot that brought the Spurs an NBA title in 1999, made his comeback to basketball seven months post-transplant. While his comeback was unprecedented in pro basketball history, to quote Elliott, "I'm thrilled to return to the court, but as evidenced by the Transplant Games, I'm not the only transplant recipient to compete in sports. What's important is that people can see that transplantation works and begin to consider becoming organ donors." Elliott, who played for one and a half seasons post-transplant, was a commentator for ESPN and currently serves as the San Antonio Spurs’ TV color analyst. Elliott also participates in Opening Ceremonies, medals presentations and conducts basketball clinics at the Transplant Games.
KEN HOWARD
In his thirty-five years in the entertainment industry Ken has had his share of important roles, from Broadway to film to television. However, in his new role as chancellor of the National Kidney Foundation, he admits he has the opportunity to help change people’s lives. A little over five years ago, Ken received a kidney transplant from his long time friend, stuntwoman, Jeannie Epper. She says giving Ken the gift of life was the greatest stunt of her long and prestigious career. Ken admits, it was quite humbling to be so blessed in such a way, and that he was one of the lucky ones. Throughout the process, Ken taught his family and friends to know what it is like to receive a life-saving organ transplant. He enthusiastically promotes organ donation and kidney disease awareness, and participates at the U.S. Transplant Games, sharing his experiences and his story.
