Donation Essentials Blog
Staff Spotlight: Chad Skurdahl
We’re so proud to work with each and every one of our staff members here at Donor Alliance. In our Staff Spotlight, we like to take a minute to share who we are and why we work at Donor Alliance. In this month’s staff spotlight, meet Chad Skurdahl, an Organ Recovery Specialist. In this role, Chad is responsible for the profusion, sterile packaging and delivery of organs to the transplant centers.
This Month’s Staff Spotlight is on Chad Skurdahl:
Name: Chad Skurdahl
Position: Organ Recovery Specialist
Years at Donor Alliance: 8 Years
Tell us a little about your role with Donor Alliance: As an Organ Recovery Specialist (ORS), I provide education and support for hospital staff in the Operating Room during the organ recovery process. As an ORS, I am also responsible for profusion of the organs, sterile packaging of the organs and delivery of those organs to the transplant centers. The ORS role also handles all the logistics in setting up flights and going on the recoveries that take place out of state for organs accepted for recipients in Colorado.
What do you enjoy most about your role/what’s the most rewarding aspect of your role? The most rewarding aspect of my role is being part of the gift of life given to those in need by a heroic donor. It is such an honor to be able to be a part of the process of saving lives each and every day, while honoring the generous and selfless gifts given by those who chose to sign up to be an organ and tissue donor.
Tell us about a time at work that really moved you, a lasting memory you made: I think the most meaningful experience I have had at Donor Alliance so far was meeting a heart recipient of a pediatric heart recovery that I was a part of. I was able to hear this little girl’s mom share her and her daughter’s story at one of our staff meetings, and was able to meet them both in person after the meeting. I remember looking into the little girl’s eyes, who was almost two when I finally met her, and realizing that I had a part of helping facilitate the beautiful gift that saved her life. I remember holding her as pictures were taken, and holding my head high knowing that I played a small part in helping her receive the heroic gift that saved her life.
When you’re not working, what do you like to do for fun? When I am not working, I enjoy spending time with my partner Afshin. We love to travel and experience different cultures, food and art. When we are not traveling, we enjoy early morning walks to the coffee shop and spending time with friends.
What piece of advice would you give your younger self? I would tell my younger self to always dream big and to chase those dreams regardless of any obstacles that you may face, because those dreams will someday become a reality.
