A Caregiver’s Heart
CKF Ambassador - George Cecere’s Caregiving Journey
The Chris Klug Foundation is proud to spotlight George Cecere, a dedicated caregiver and passionate advocate for organ, eye, and tissue donation. Based in Ohio, George’s connection to the transplant community began through his wife, Terri, who received a lifesaving heart transplant 30 months ago.
Terri’s transplant journey was a long and courageous one. After living with cardiomyopathy for 17 years, she became the first person to receive a heart transplant at The Christ Hospital in Cincinnati—a monumental milestone not only for Terri but for the hospital’s transplant program. The experience was transformative for the Cecere family and sparked a deep commitment to honor Terri’s donor, and give back to the donation community.
Early in her recovery, George and Terri decided that becoming advocates for donation would be a powerful way to express their gratitude. They connected with the local organ procurement organization (OPO) that facilitated Terri’s transplant and joined its ambassador program. Eager to expand their impact, they also became ambassadors for a second OPO serving their region.
Through their advocacy, George and Terri were introduced to a local chapter of SODA: Student Organ Donation Advocates. Inspired by the students’ energy and passion, they became dedicated supporters and mentors—affectionately known as the group’s “grandma and grandpa.” Their support has helped shape the chapter's outreach, while reinforcing the importance of multigenerational involvement in the organ donation movement.
For George, this mission runs deeper than advocacy—it is part of Terri’s healing and his journey as a caregiver. Inspired by his experience, George launched a virtual peer-led support group called TCH; The Caregiver’s Heart (named in honor of his wife’s initials). The group meets twice a month, and serves as a vital resource for caregivers supporting loved ones through transplant. It is a safe space for sharing, reflection, and connection—where joy, sorrow, and understanding are equally welcomed.
“Everyone in the group just gets it,” George says. “We laugh, we cry, and we walk through it all together.”
George and Terri have become beacons of hope and compassion in the transplant community. Their story has touched recipients, donor families, healthcare professionals, and fellow advocates across the country. Though they have not yet connected with Terri’s donor family, they continue to honor that gift by paying it forward every day.
When George discovered the Chris Klug Foundation and its powerful national platform, he saw it as an opportunity to do even more. By becoming a CKF Ambassador, he hopes to continue amplifying the importance of donation, caregiver support, and community connection.
We are honored to welcome George into our CKF Ambassador family. His journey is a powerful reminder that transplant touches many lives—not just recipients, but their families, caregivers, and entire communities. His advocacy, compassion, and dedication embody the mission and spirit of the Chris Klug Foundation.
Thank you, George, for turning gratitude into action—and for sharing your heart with us all.
