Liona Supports Team Mississippi at the 2026 Transplant Games
At Liona, pride in our mission isn’t just a word we use in our work. It’s something we live. And sometimes, that pride extends far beyond the world of secure IT and government communications.
On September 18, 2024, our Director of Operations, Carl Densford, stepped up in a way few people ever will; by donating a kidney to save a friend’s life.
The recipient, Carrie, is a retired Air National Guardsman, aviator, and mentor to Carl’s wife. Carrie was battling IGA Neuropathy, a degenerative kidney disease that ended her flying career and left her running out of treatment options. She turned to social media for help. Carl, a retired US Air Force Major himself, saw the call and made a decision: he would find out if he could be a match.
After a year of testing and preparation, the surgery was a success. Carrie fondly calls her new organ the “super kidney”—it began working instantly, restoring her health and giving her life back. At the time of the transplant, her kidney function was just 13%. A year later, she had climbed to 81% and is now back in the cockpit, training to return to her aviation career.
Carl’s recovery was anything but typical. Known for his relentless drive, he was back at work quickly and within months was competing in triathlons. In just his first year post-surgery, he raced an Olympic Distance Triathlon, completed a 62-mile bike ride, and even took on the legendary Escape from Alcatraz Triathlon.
This spirit of grit and service hasn’t gone unnoticed. Earlier this year, Team Mississippi selected Carl to represent the state at the 2026 Transplant Games of America in Denver, Colorado. The Transplant Games bring together transplant recipients, living donors, and supporters from across the country to celebrate life, resilience, and the gift of organ donation.
In 2026, you’ll see Carl racing in Kidney Donor Athlete gear and proudly carrying Liona’s banner as he swims, bikes, and runs in the Mile-High City.
We’re proud to support Carl on this journey—and prouder still of the example he sets: that mission doesn’t stop at the edge of a contract, a uniform, or a role. Mission is about people, and people are worth showing up for.
Learn more and support the cause:
- Donate to Carl’s campaign at Givebutter Fundraiser
- Explore the Transplant Games of America
- Learn about living donation at DOVE Transplant