OneLegacy Honors the Unsung Heroes Behind the World's First-in-Human Bladder Transplant

AZUSA, Calif.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--History was made in Southern California when a team of surgeons achieved a medical milestone: the world’s first bladder transplant. This groundbreaking advancement gave Oscar Larrainzar, a 41-year-old man, a second chance at life—something he once thought was out of reach. While the surgeons’ achievement is historic, it is equally important to honor Amanda Cordier: a mother, wife, daughter, and organ donor. Without her—and her extraordinary gift of life—this moment would not have been possible.

Amanda was a registered organ, eye and tissue donor. Her sudden passing left a profound void for her loving family, including her 7-year-old son. Her husband, Ryan Cordier, shared: “She was such a kind and giving person, so it only makes sense that she would continue to give all of herself to others, even in her passing. I am so proud of her decision and the legacy she has left behind. Because of that decision, so many lives will be impacted, and Oliver can see that his mama truly is a hero. In her short 37 years, she did so much more than many will be able to do in a whole lifetime.” Amanda saved five lives through the donation of her kidneys, liver, heart, lungs, and bladder. Her corneas and tissue also helped heal dozens more. In her final act of love, she helped pave the way for future bladder transplant procedures.

This landmark transplant, performed on May 4, 2025, was the culmination of years of clinical trials and research, funded and coordinated by OneLegacy—Southern California’s leading organ procurement organization. Amanda’s donated bladder ultimately healed Mr. Larrainzar, but her gift was part of a broader effort made possible by 10 other donors and their families, whose contributions to bladder research helped lay the groundwork for this historic achievement.

“OneLegacy is proud to have provided the financial support for the clinical research that made this groundbreaking transplant possible,” said Prasad Garimella, CEO of OneLegacy. “OneLegacy provided all research organs involved in the clinical trials, but none of this would have been possible without the generosity of the organ donors and families who said ‘yes’ to organ donation.”

Serving a diverse population of over 20 million people, OneLegacy partners with more than 200 hospitals and nine transplant centers across seven counties, working tirelessly to ensure that lifesaving organs and tissues reach those in need. To learn more about OneLegacy’s mission—or how you can save lives through organ donation—visit www.onelegacy.org.

About OneLegacy

OneLegacy is a nonprofit organization dedicated to saving lives through organ, eye, and tissue donation throughout Southern California, including Los Angeles, Orange, Riverside, San Bernardino, Ventura, Santa Barbara, and Kern counties. Working in close collaboration with hospitals and transplant centers, OneLegacy ensures the recovery of vital organs and tissues. Make a difference: become an organ, eye, and tissue donor by registering at OneLegacy.org/register or by checking “YES” at your local DMV. If you're not already a donor, we encourage you to consider registering today. For more information, visit OneLegacy.org.