Mike Robison, a TV Photojournalist at Fox 10 Phoenix, and an avid Ohio State fan, made the ultimate gesture to donate a kidney to his brother Steve. Steve lives in Ohio, but much to Mike’s dismay, supports Michigan. Steve, who had been battling diabetes most of his life was then faced with a bleeding ulcer and pancreatitis that created his dire need for a kidney transplant. After thorough discussions with his doctor, family, and workplace, Mike found the decision to be an easy one. Mike stepped up to donate his kidney, proving that some bonds are stronger than even the fiercest sports rivalries. “He’s my brother and I know he would do it for me.”

The process began in October 2023, they tackled the logistical challenge of coordinating an out-of-state donation.  Part of Mike’s testing was done in Arizona, and then traveled to Ohio to finish the remaining tests and returned two months later for the surgery.  Both brothers worked closely with their respective medical teams to ensure everything was in place. The surgery took place on December 1, 2023, at Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center. Throughout the entire process, Mike felt well-informed and prepared, with all his questions and concerns addressed. He had a support system full of family and friends by his side.

Post-surgery, Mike experienced some soreness but no complications, and he feels physically the same as before the donation. He stayed with Steve and his family in Ohio for a couple of weeks to recover, ensuring he was back home in time to celebrate Christmas with his own family.

When asked what advice he would give to someone interested in becoming a living organ donor, Mike’s response was straightforward: “What’s stopping you? If you are healthy enough and doctors give you the green light, what’s stopping you? More and more people should consider this as an option. I donate blood; I look at this as another way to help others. If you are medically able to give this and have no religious or other issues with organ donation, what’s holding you back as a potential life-saving donor?”

During the donation process, Mike learned about the National Living Donor Assistance Center. The NLDAC helps eligible living organ donors with travel, lost wages, and dependent care expenses. This federally funded program aims to reduce the financial barriers to living organ donation, ensuring that donors like Mike can focus on their recovery. For more information, visit their website at livingdonorassistance.org.

Mike emphasized the life-changing impact this has for the recipient. He has become a passionate advocate for living organ donation and wants everyone to know there’s a significant need for donors out there.  For Mike, the decision to donate his kidney was life-changing to his brother Steve.  He is committed to sharing his experience to hopefully inspire others and he is looking forward to participating as a guest speaker at the upcoming “Music to Save a Life” concert.

This annual benefit concert is designed to raise awareness about the importance of living organ donation and to support transplant recipients and donor families. This year’s concert, featuring the Talbott Brothers, will take place on Saturday, October 19, 2024, at 6398 E Oak St, Scottsdale, AZ 85257. Brothers Nick and Tyler Talbott began performing together in 2012 and their music blends elements of folk, rock, and pop, creating a unique sound that resonates with a wide audience. Their songs often reflect personal experiences and universal themes, making their music relatable and impactful. Doors open at 5 PM, with optional dinner and socializing from 5-6:30 PM, and the concert starting at 7 PM. If you’re interested in attending the Music to Save a Life concert or supporting the cause, you can purchase tickets or donate directly on the Transplant Community Alliance website at transplantaz.org. All proceeds from ticket sales and donations directly benefit TCA programs, which provide support services to organ transplant recipients.

Mike’s hope is to encourage at least one, if not more people to become living donors. Mike’s story is proof to the power of giving and the profound impact one person can have on another’s life. His journey serves as an inspiration for others to consider the incredible gift of organ donation.

Today, Mike humorously checks in with Steve, asking, “Hey, how’s my kidney?” to which Steve replies, “Fine, how’s the other?” For their upcoming “kidneyversary,” Mike plans to surprise Steve with an afternoon at the Ohio State vs. Michigan game—a perfect recovery back to rivalry celebration for the pair.