2025 Community Champion
Winner - Two Time Kidney Recipient and Physician Dr Randall Stafford
The Chris Klug Foundation (CKF) is proud to recognize Dr. Randall “Randy” Stafford as this year’s Community Champion—an award that honors extraordinary individuals who go above and beyond to support the organ, eye, and tissue donation and transplant community.
Nominated by transplant athlete and advocate, Zachary Brooks, Dr. Stafford is a two-time kidney transplant recipient, a dedicated physician, and an advocate for healthy living and transplant awareness. Diagnosed with end-stage renal disease at just 23 years old, Dr. Stafford received his first transplant in 1984 from his younger brother, Derek. That life-saving gift set him on a lifelong mission to give back.
Now a Professor of Medicine at Stanford University and Director of the Program on Prevention Outcomes and Practices, Dr. Stafford has spent more than four decades merging his personal transplant journey with a professional career in medicine and public health. With over 220 published journal articles, he is an internationally respected voice in chronic disease prevention, health equity, and patient-centered research.
Dr. Stafford’s post-transplant life has been defined by achievement and advocacy. A gifted endurance athlete, he has competed in 20 World and U.S. Transplant Games, winning over 80 medals and leading Team USA Cycling. From cycling across Malaysia and Iceland to trekking to Everest Base Camp and launching a free eye disease screening program in Bangladesh, Randy exemplifies CKF’s “Bounce Back, Give Back” spirit.
In addition to his medical and athletic accomplishments, Dr. Stafford is a dedicated volunteer, non-profit advisor, and public speaker. He serves as Director of Research for World Transplant Athletes, is an online seminar speaker, an Ambassador for the Chris Klug Foundation, and an advisor to organizations including the American Heart Association, National Kidney Foundation, and California’s Medicaid program.
Randy’s story is one of perseverance, service, and gratitude. He not only survived but thrived—and continues to inspire, educate, and uplift the donation and transplant community worldwide. He is a true embodiment of what it means to be a Community Champion. Dr. Stafford will be celebrated and highlighted as a leader and advocate in the donation and transplant space. This recognition reflects a lifetime of dedication and impact that continues to ripple through communities around the globe.
