Join us on Saturday, May 2, at LifeSource Headquarters in Minneapolis for the Second Chance for Life Annual Education Seminar, a day dedicated to learning, support, and connection for transplant recipients, LVAD patients, caregivers, and families.

This informative event features University of Minnesota faculty and experienced professionals who will share insights on important topics related to heart transplantation and LVAD care. Speakers will include:

Rebecca Cogswell, MD, Heart Failure and Transplantation Cardiology
Tamas Alexy, MD, Heart Failure and Transplantation Cardiology
Maureen A. Johnson, MSN, RN, PHN, Heart Transplant and LVAD Coordinator, will discuss the link between mental health and cardiac health.
Lillie Carlile, APRN, CNP, will discuss living a heart-healthy lifestyle plus preventative screening.
Natalia Carlson and Makala Nitkowski, UMMC Cardiology Social Workers, will lead a discussion about coping with the daily challenges of living with an LVAD.
Donor mom, Vicki Wichmann Miller, along with Jill Halimi and Heather Schmitt, LifeSource Donor Family Advocates: The positive impact of writing to your donor family.
Jane Johnson, RN, LMFT, parent and former caregiver of a heart transplant patient, will facilitate a roundtable discussion among caregivers of both LVAD and transplant patients.

In addition to general education sessions, attendees will have the opportunity to participate in breakout sessions designed specifically for heart transplant recipients, LVAD patients, and caregivers. These smaller sessions provide a chance to focus on topics most relevant to your experience and ask questions in a supportive setting.

Just as important, the seminar offers a chance to connect with others who understand the transplant and LVAD journey—sharing experiences, learning together, and strengthening the community that supports us all.

Date: Saturday, May 2, 2026

8:30 AM - Check-in. Enjoy coffee, pastries, and fruit.
9:00 AM - Welcome, opening comments
9:15 - 11:00 AM - Presentations
11:00 - 11:45 AM - Breakout Sessions
12:00 PM - Buffet lunch
1:00 - 1:45 PM - Presentation
1:45 PM - End of Seminar

Location: LifeSource Headquarters

2225 West River Road North
Minneapolis, MN 55411

Cost: $25/person, to cover lunch expenses

2026 Education Seminar

Register Now!