Cherie Ausk

Hometown
West Fargo, ND

Connection to donation/transplantation
I am a heart/double lung recipient. In August this year I will celebrate my 20th transplant Birthday!!! My transplant center is Mayo Clinic (Rochester) although my surgery was in Mayo Jacksonville.

Competitions/Events at the 2024 Transplant Games of America
I plan to walk the 5K and participate in singles and doubles bowling and volleyball.

How many Transplant Games have you attended?
This will be my 5th one.

Why do you participate in the Transplant Games?
To meet other recipients and donor families and share stories, create new friendships, inspire others and be inspired. Also to raise awareness of the importance of organ donation and its impact.

One thing you want others to know about donation.
Donation is a wonderful gift and has allowed me more time with my family and friends. It has allowed me to continue to work and support myself and my son while he was still at home. It allowed me to enjoy life and I was just married 3 years ago. I think about my donor’s family often. Donation is the Gift of Life!!