A Help Hope Live Client Case Study with Keith Henry
Part of the South-Atlantic Transplant Fund
OVERVIEW
“Family, friends, fans…this is about my father.”
That’s how KJ Henry kicked off his video request for support in honor of his father, Keith Henry. Keith would need a kidney transplant to keep moving forward as a devoted football coach and faith-filled family man.
THE PROBLEM
Keith and his family were told insurance would cover just 65% of Keith’s transplant costs. They anticipated significant out-of-pocket expenses to bring a kidney transplant within reach, from medical travel to co-pays to lifelong anti-rejection medications.
THE SOLUTION/APPROACH
A transplant social worker recommended Help Hope Live, and Keith’s community began fundraising in 2021.
Then a Clemson Tiger, KJ launched a video appeal, social media campaigns, and both in-person and virtual fundraisers. He and his family received immediate support and messages of hope from the Clemson community.
KJ, Keith, and Keith’s wife Nicole were able to spread the word far and wide while inspiring complete donor confidence thanks to Help Hope Live’s trusted nonprofit status.
THE OUTCOME
Keith’s community raised over $100,000 for Help Hope Live in Keith’s honor.
In July 2022, he received a successful transplant thanks to a selfless living kidney donor, Karen Eaton. Over time, Keith’s health became strong enough to allow him to return to the job he loves: coaching football.
Moved by our mission and its impact, Keith’s family became Help Hope Live Ambassadors.
The Help Hope Live Touch
In the years since his father’s transplant, KJ, who is now a Super Bowl-winning NFL player, has continued to pledge his support to Help Hope Live’s mission wholeheartedly.
KJ has held “Why Not Me” football camps at his high school to raise funds for Help Hope Live, met with our team and clients in-person, attended fundraisers, and even donned custom Help Hope Live cleats in an NFL game.
In 2026, Nicole will be participating in Bags of Hope to bring cheer to individuals and families facing hospitalizations or medical hardship. We extend our thanks to Chatham Financial for helping to make this moment happen.
“Help Hope Live chose me. It’s a cause I’m linked with for the rest of my life.”
