Meet Dr. Matt Harmody
Matt Harmody, MD, MBA, is a retired emergency physician, living kidney donor, and endurance athlete. Inspired by his father’s battle with kidney failure, he donated a kidney to a stranger in 2017 through the National Kidney Registry’s paired-exchange program—an act that sparked his lifelong mission to advocate for donors, mentor those considering the gift, and fight for policies that expand access to transplantation.
He currently serves as board chair of the National Kidney Donation Organization and is a principal in a nonprofit organization that is working to reform federal law and end the nation’s chronic kidney shortage. His advocacy has taken him from mentoring individuals one-on-one to briefing congressional leaders on Capitol Hill.
An adventurer at heart, Matt has completed ultramarathons and multiday adventure races, and, in 2022, he summited Mount Kilimanjaro with 21 fellow kidney donors on World Kidney Day. In 2023, he joined a Guinness world record–setting team that climbed the highest peaks in all 50 U.S. states.
Matt lives in Southern Pines, North Carolina, with his wife Susan. They have two adult sons and one grandson. Ascending America is his first book.
Inspire. Educate. Activate.
I speak to healthcare professionals, transplant communities, nonprofits, and outdoor audiences about the power and potential of living kidney donation. Whether I’m giving a keynote or leading an interactive workshop, I share real-life stories and actionable insights designed to spark connection, challenge assumptions, and inspire change.
Breaking Down Medical Myths with Story and Science
With the heart of a storyteller and the mind of a physician, I make complex transplant facts easy to understand—and impossible to ignore.
Moving People from Awareness to Action
I give everyday people the tools and confidence to speak up, take action, and help others say yes to saving a life.
Changing the Narrative Around Living Donation
I reframe kidney donation as a powerful, life-affirming choice—and show that advocacy can start with a single step.
Turning Donors into Everyday Advocates
I inspire people to reimagine what life after donation can look like—and I empower them to share that message with others.
You don’t have to summit a mountain to help save a life.
This simple, 4-step action plan is designed for everyday people who want to make a difference—but aren’t sure where to start.
Inside, you’ll find:
- Easy-to-follow weekly steps that educate and inspire
- Real donor stories and advocacy tools
- Simple ways to get involved—no experience or medical background needed
Download the guide and start making a difference today.
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