Craig is a devoted single dad to his sweet son, CJ. His days are filled with attending church, managing a small family business, spending quality time with his boy, watching CJ’s soccer games, and enjoying the occasional round of golf. Life took an unexpected turn in 2021 when Craig was diagnosed with kidney disease. By 2024, his condition had progressed to end-stage kidney failure, bringing immense changes to their lives.
For over a year now, dialysis treatments and hospital visits have been their new normal. The disease is both debilitating and unpredictable, often leaving Craig too unwell to get out of bed. However, on the days when he feels better, he dedicates his energy to what matters most—playing Nerf battles with CJ and cheering him on at soccer matches.
In a true blessing, Craig’s younger brother, Aaron, has selflessly stepped forward as a living donor. Aaron’s courageous and generous act of donating his kidney is giving Craig the ultimate gift of life, allowing him to be the active dad CJ dearly misses.
This journey has been overwhelming in countless ways—physically, emotionally, and financially. As a small business owner, Craig struggles to work consistently due to his health, though he’s fortunate to have a loyal employee who steps in when he can’t. To ease the burden, Craig and CJ have moved in with his sister and brother-in-law, who, along with the entire family, provide unwavering support in caregiving, finances, and raising CJ.
Craig’s family and friends are rallying together to raise funds through the nonprofit Help Hope Live, supporting uninsured medical expenses associated with his transplant. By partnering with Help Hope Live, Craig ensures that all donations are tax-deductible and will be used exclusively for the significant medical and related costs required for both him and his donor, his brother Aaron.
Donating a kidney is a tremendous act of generosity, but it also comes with a demanding recovery process. Aaron will undergo a hospital stay and face up to 12 weeks off work and several follow-up visits. His wife, Kristan, will take time off from work to care for him during his recovery. Meanwhile, Craig’s journey will be even more intensive—he will require time in the ICU, an extended hospital stay, and outpatient care every other day for several months post-transplant. Additionally, Craig will need dedicated caregiving support for an extended period as he regains strength.
This fundraiser offers an opportunity to ease the heavy financial burden this life-changing procedure brings, ensuring both Craig and Aaron receive the necessary medical care and support throughout the transplant process.
