Dr. Ryan Howard Recognized by Donor Network West

Dr. Ryan Howard recently received Donor Network West Foundation’s President’s Award for his extraordinary dedication and leadership in advancing the life-saving mission of organ donation.

Dr. Howard specializes in hospice and palliative medicine at Kaweah Health. Palliative care manages symptoms and stress in serious illness, often alongside treatment. Hospice is palliative care for terminal patients focused solely on comfort.

“I humbly accepted the award, but in all honesty the majority of the credit for my success is attributable to the wonderfully capable and compassionate, incredibly dedicated, hospice and palliative medicine team members at Kaweah Health,” Dr. Howard said.

Dr. Howard and the Kaweah Health Hospice and Palliative Care Team consistently ensure that each patient’s voice, values, and wishes remain central during some of the most difficult moments families face. 

“Their ability to thoughtfully bridge palliative care with donation discussions ensures families feel supported, informed, and never rushed, allowing hope and healing to remain present even in moments of profound loss,” said Dr. Janice Whaley, President and CEO of Donor Network West. “Dr. Howard and the palliative care team have elevated the standard of care at Kaweah Health. Their work not only supports families through end-of-life decisions, but also helps transform loss into legacy.”

Donor Network West is a nonprofit organ procurement organization with headquarters in northern California and northern Nevada. The President’s Award is a prestigious recognition reserved for individuals whose exceptional contributions and transformative impact on organ, eye, and tissue donation merit distinction beyond the other award categories.