The Missing Piece is a window into the world of kidney transplant recipients and donors.  These powerful, first-hand accounts, written by patients at Michigan Medicine, provide frank glimpses into the highs and the lows experienced by those struggling with a life-altering illness.  The contributing authors discuss the coping techniques that worked and those that did not; how they knew when it was time to consider dialysis; and, how they shared their experiences and news with family, friends, and even complete strangers in a quest for a donation from a living donor. 
 
This uplifting book contains practical advice and a helpful list of resources for patients and family members.  It is a must-read for those who are facing dialysis and/or kidney transplant and for those considering becoming a living donor.  
 
The book’s editor has dedicated this book to new patients, understanding that patient-to-patient communication is a unique and effective way to improve patient and family education.  Proceeds from this book will be used to improve the patient experience at Michigan Medicine. 
 

Megan Podschlne is the Project Manager at the University of Michigan Transplant Center. She began working as the Center’s Outreach Assistant in 2014 after graduating from Michigan State University with a Bachelor of Arts in Communications with a specialization in Public Relations. In 2017, she received an MBA in Management from Amberton University.

In her current position, she serves as the Program Manager of Wolverines for Life, a partnership between the University of Michigan, Gift of Life Michigan, Eversight, Be the Match, and the American Red Cross. She coordinates donor drives and leads several student organizations to advocate for life-saving donation. She also manages some of the Center’s strategic planning initiatives and aids in community outreach endeavors.