Spokespeople
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.
