In this rich and moving episode, an experienced intensive care social worker invites us into the often unseen world of organ donation. She walks us through the delicate, extended process—from the first traumatic moments families arrive in ICU, to end-of-life conversations, consent for donation, and final goodbyes. Along the way, she reveals how careful observation, silence, and presence help her read the room, honour families’ grief, and support truly informed, unhurried decisions.

Lis and Mim reflect on what this practice teaches us about relationship-based social work in high-pressure hospital environments. They explore how advocacy can look like slowing things down, protecting space for ritual and memory-making, and ensuring the person with the strongest connection (not just the highest status) leads critical conversations. Together, they highlight the quiet yet radical power of social work in creating dignity, meaning, and even moments of joy at the end of life.

Check out our website to access every episode of all the Social Work Media family of podcasts, including Social Work Discoveries, Social Work Teach, PodSocs, and Social Work Stories.

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Credits:

Hosts - Lis Murphy and Dr. Mim Fox

Producers - Dr. Ben Joseph and Justin Stech

Music - 'Mama' by Ben Grace (copyright 2018). Find on Spotify, or at www.bengracemusic.com

Social Work Stories©️ (17 July, 2026)

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