Thompson Coburn partner Bernie Citron and associate Hope Watson have been nominated by the National Kidney Foundation for its “2026 Kidney Hero of the Year” award, an honor that recognizes individuals who have made an extraordinary impact through kidney donation advocacy and awareness.
Bernie and Hope were nominated in recognition of Hope’s living kidney donation to Bernie and their ongoing advocacy for organ donation. Since the transplant, they have shared their story to raise awareness of kidney disease and educate others about the life-changing impact of living donation.
As advocates for living kidney donation, Bernie and Hope have been featured in publications including the American Bar Association Journal, The National Law Journal, Above the Law, and Law360. They also participated in Thompson Coburn’s National Donate Life Month video series, which highlighted their donation journey and the importance of organ donation.
Supporters may vote for Bernie and Hope by making a donation through the National Kidney Foundation at Kidney.org/HeroHope. Voting closes on August 19.
