Marc Coronel is a passionate advocate whose life was transformed by a simple ask and now he wants you to discover the power of just asking.
Resilient. Compassionate. Dedicated.
Join us at TEDxLogan Circle 2025 to hear Marc Coronel's inspiring message and be part of the movement towards a more inclusive future.
Can you tell us a little about your talk?
My talk is about the transformative power of asking for help, and how sharing my story on social media led to a living kidney donation that saved my life. It’s a message for anyone who's ever felt afraid to speak up, and a reminder that vulnerability can open doors to unexpected miracles.
What does courage mean to you?
Courage means using your voice even when it shakes. It’s saying, “I need help,” and believing you’re still worthy even in your most vulnerable moments. Courage isn’t always loud, it can be a quiet post on social media, a hard conversation with a doctor, or the moment you choose hope when everything feels uncertain.
What experiences helped you hone your voice of courage?
The turning point for me was asking for a kidney on social media. It was terrifying to expose that part of my life so publicly, but it saved me. That experience taught me that courage is deeply personal, often uncomfortable, but incredibly powerful when it's shared authentically. Every time I see someone else gain strength from my story, I’m reminded that my voice matters.
How has your perspective on courage changed over time?
I used to think strength meant doing it alone, but I learned that true courage is allowing others to step in when you need them most.
What is your “Why?” in life?
My "why" is simple but deeply rooted. I never want anyone facing chronic illness to feel invisible, unheard, or alone. After living through dialysis, receiving a kidney transplant, and navigating the emotional and physical toll of rare kidney disease, I realized that sharing my story could be a lifeline for others. I'm here to show people that vulnerability is not weakness, and that asking for help can be the bravest, most life-changing thing we ever do.
Who or what helps you stay grounded?
My journey keeps me grounded. Every patient I advocate for, every life touched by a story of hope, reminds me why I do this. My donor’s incredible act of selflessness keeps me humble. I also stay centered by making space for quiet reflection and staying close to a community that reminds me of who I was before the diagnosis and who I’ve become since.
Why are you excited to be a speaker at 2025 TEDxLogan Circle?
I’m thrilled to speak at TEDxLogan Circle because it’s more than just a stage, it’s a chance to ignite hope in someone else. This platform gives me the opportunity to share a story that has already changed lives, and I believe it can inspire people to rethink how they view courage, asking for help, and what’s possible when we come together in community.
What do you appreciate most about D.C. culture and community?
What I love most about D.C. is the way advocacy, history, and heart all live in the same space. There’s a strong sense of purpose here, people show up, speak out, and push for change. It’s a city that understands the power of storytelling and collective action, which makes it the perfect place to share this message.
Do you have any last words of wisdom you would like to share?
A healthy person has a thousand wishes, a sick person has one.
Marc Coronel
Marc Coronel is a kidney transplant recipient, patient advocate, and social media strategist focused on transforming how patients find living organ donors. Diagnosed with FSGS, Marc successfully found a living kidney donor by sharing their story on social media, an experience that ignited their passion for advocacy. For over a decade, Marc has guided patients in using digital storytelling to connect with potential donors and advocate for themselves. Their work extends to influencing healthcare policies and engaging with congressional leaders to improve organ donation and transplant accessibility. As a speaker, consultant, and storyteller, Marc shares a unique perspective on courage in medical adversity, aiming to challenge the stigma around asking for help and highlight the life-saving impact of sharing personal stories.
Join us at TEDxLogan Circle 2025 to be part of the movement towards a more inclusive future.