How small, intentional habits—and the gift of organ donation—can transform a second chance at life
Visit ClubPilates.com/location/edmond for more wellness tips and to sign up for a Pilates class.
When Paige Denney received a lifesaving liver transplant at just 20 years old, her journey didn’t end in the operating room—it was only the beginning. What followed was a commitment to healing, both physically and emotionally, and a renewed perspective on what it means to truly care for your body.
Organ donation gave Paige a second chance at life. Wellness helped her make the most of it.
After being diagnosed with stage 4 liver cirrhosis caused by Wilson’s disease, Paige faced a future she never expected. But thanks to the generosity of an organ donor, she was given the opportunity to heal, rebuild, and move forward. Today, she’s thriving—and sharing how simple wellness practices played a powerful role in her recovery.
Here are five wellness tips inspired by Paige’s journey that you may not have considered:
1. Start Small—Movement Matters More Than Intensity
After her transplant, even short walks felt challenging for Paige due to shortness of breath and rebuilding lung strength. But by staying consistent, those short walks turned into miles.
Wellness tip: Don’t underestimate gentle movement. A daily walk—even just a few minutes—can significantly support recovery and overall health.
2. Healing Happens Outside, Too
For Paige, getting outside wasn’t just physical—it was mental. Fresh air and a change of environment helped her stay motivated and positive during recovery.
Wellness tip: Spending time outdoors can reduce stress, improve mood, and support healing in ways you might not expect.
3. Nutrition Is a Form of Self-Respect
Returning home meant committing to a clean, balanced diet to support her new liver and overall health.
Wellness tip: Think of food as fuel for healing. Small, mindful choices each day can make a big difference over time.
4. Give Yourself Grace on the Hard Days
Paige openly shares that recovery isn’t linear. Between the emotional weight of her journey and the impact of medications, there were both good days and difficult ones.
Wellness tip: Wellness isn’t about perfection—it’s about persistence. Allow yourself space to feel, rest, and reset.
5. Honor Your Story—Scars and All
One of the most powerful lessons Paige has learned is to embrace her journey.
“Your scars tell a story,” she says. “They show your strength.”
Wellness tip: Confidence and healing go hand in hand. Owning your story can be one of the most empowering parts of your wellness journey.
The Role of Organ Donation in Healing
While wellness habits played a critical role in Paige’s recovery, none of it would have been possible without the selfless gift of organ donation.
Every day, individuals across the country are waiting for a lifesaving transplant—hoping for the same second chance Paige received. Organ, eye, and tissue donors make it possible for recipients not only to survive, but to truly live—to experience milestones, rebuild their health, and embrace wellness in a whole new way.
For Paige, that gift is never taken for granted.
“Life isn’t over—it’s a second chance,” she says. “Someone gave me another opportunity, and it’s important to honor that.”
A Second Chance, Lived Fully
Today, Paige enjoys the everyday moments that once felt uncertain—walking her dogs, practicing Pilates, spending time with loved ones. Her story is a reminder that wellness isn’t just about big changes—it’s about the small, consistent choices that help us move forward.
And for transplant recipients like Paige, those choices are made possible by the generosity of an organ donor.
You have the power to give that second chance. Register your decision to be an organ, eye and tissue donor at LifeShareOK.org or when getting your Driver’s License or State ID.
