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Casper Today
By the People, for the People
Casper Couple Celebrates 16 Years After Heart Transplant
Jason and Misty Wynia are grateful for the gift of life that allowed them to mark another Valentine's Day together.
Published on Feb. 14, 2026
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In 2009, Jason Wynia was diagnosed with heart failure and was placed on the heart transplant list. After receiving a new heart in February 2010, Jason and his wife Misty have been able to celebrate 16 more Valentine's Days together. The couple has become advocates for organ donation, sharing their story to encourage others to register as donors.
Why it matters
This story highlights the life-changing impact of organ donation and the importance of registering as a donor. The Wynias' experience shows how one person's decision to become a donor can give someone else a second chance at life. Their advocacy work also helps raise awareness about the ongoing need for organ donors.
The details
Jason Wynia was diagnosed with heart failure in 2009 at the age of 34. After being placed on the heart transplant list, he received a new heart in February 2010 following a nine-hour surgery. The recovery process was lengthy, but Jason was eventually able to return to work in 2011. Over the past 16 years, the Wynias have faced some health complications, but they remain grateful for the gift of life they received.
- In 2009, Jason Wynia was diagnosed with heart failure.
- In February 2010, Jason received a heart transplant.
- In August 2011, Jason was able to return to work.
The players
Jason Wynia
A 34-year-old man who received a heart transplant in 2010 after being diagnosed with heart failure.
Misty Wynia
Jason's wife, who supported him through his health crisis and became an advocate for organ donation.
Mary Schroer
The Community Engagement Coordinator in Wyoming for Donor Alliance, an organization that facilitates organ and tissue donation.
What they’re saying
“The answer that you're giving when you say 'yes' is, 'Yes, I would like to save and heal as many lives as possible,' 'Yes, I would like to give an anatomical gift, to save as many people as I can, to heal as many people as I can.'”
— Mary Schroer, Community Engagement Coordinator, Donor Alliance (cowboystatedaily.com)
“You appreciate the gift, and then you do whatever you can to honor that gift as much as possible.”
— Jason Wynia (cowboystatedaily.com)
What’s next
The Wynias plan to continue their advocacy work with Donor Alliance, sharing their story and encouraging others to register as organ donors.
The takeaway
This story serves as a powerful reminder of the life-saving impact of organ donation. The Wynias' experience highlights the importance of registering as a donor and the profound difference it can make in someone's life.
