
Leslie Olson started his organ recovery career in 1968. Receiving a Physiology degree from the University of Minnesota, Les began working at the University’s Transplant Animal Lab where he acquired surgical skills. A decade later, Les left Minnesota to establish the Organ Procurement Organization in Miami. After 23 years, Les moved to Seattle to join LifeCenter Northwest, before retiring in 2023. Over 55 years, Les has recovered organs from more than 6,000 donors in 6 countries and taught more than 100 fellows, residents and attending physicians. His reputation and experience have led to the development of organ donation in India and Japan. At 78, Les has the longest career and most experience in organ recovery. He lives in Washington with his significant other, 4 children and 11 wonderful grandchildren.