Children's Organ Transplant Association (COTA) 

The Children's Organ Transplant Association (COTA) is a national charity based in Bloomington, Indiana.  COTA organizes and guides communities in raising funds for transplant-needy patients; 100% of all funds raised are used for transplant-related expenses.  What started as a drive to save the life of one child from Indiana in 1986 has now become a national organization that has helped more than 1,100 children and adults -- all of whom required a life-saving organ, bone marrow, cord blood or stem cell transplant.

Lauren's Story

Hello, my name is Lauren.

I was born on May 26, 2006 along with my twin brother, Owen. We started out together the same, but somewhere along the way I began to experience problems with my liver. While my brother thrived, daily life became increasingly difficult for myself (and my loving family). It became apparent that I would need a new liver in order to survive - and this is my story. These struggles have made me a strong and determined little girl, and with the help of COTA (Children's Organ Transplant Association) and your generous donations - I can get all the help I need to live a normal and happy life like anyone else. Read my "Mom and Dad's Daily Journal" to learn more about the daily challenges I must face.

On July 26, I was lucky enough to receive my second liver transplant (had some problems getting my first one to work properly) and the doctors and nurses at Riley Children's Hospital have continued to amaze me with their skills and kindness. Things seem to be working nicely and so my family continues to cross their fingers.