In 1998 he was diagnosed with Hepatitis C. At that time he was advised if treatment for the Hep C didn’t work and clear the virus he would eventually need a liver transplant. After three different trial treatments for the Hep C, the doctors were unable to clear the virus from his system. Now they have discovered Hepatocellular Carcinoma (a tumor in his liver). Doug has had a chemoembolization (localized chemo treatment) but the doctors have said that his treatment option is to have a liver transplant.

Due to the seriousness of Doug’s medical condition I (Anita, his wife) am working part-time because I will be his primary caregiver during this time. In addition I will probably not be working for at least 1-2 months when he has the transplant. Doug has been self-employed this year and will be unable to work for a few months. Now that he is on the transplant list he can’t travel very far from home (you must leave within 30 minutes of when you get the call for your transplant) and after surgery he won’t be able to drive for around two months. We are facing a challenge we cannot meet alone.

This all brings us to the purpose of this letter. Not only is this transplant a major surgical procedure, but it is very expensive and insurance will not cover all the costs. We would like to ask for your help and prayers during this time.

A fundraising campaign in Doug’s honor has been established through HelpHOPELive for his uninsured medical expenses. HelpHOPELive is a nonprofit organization that has provided direct assistance to the transplant community for over 25 years. For those who are able and would like to contribute to help Doug:To help achieve our fundraising goals, we will be planning benefit events in Doug’s honor. If you are interested in putting your time or talents to this worthy cause, please contact us at our home, 985-893-5802. Any ideas or help you can give will be welcome!

With sincere gratitude,

Doug & Anita Slusher

Contributions are tax-deductible to the extent allowed by the law. This campaign is administered by the HelpHOPELive, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit providing fundraising assistance to transplant and catastrophic injury patients. Information: 800-642-8399.

To email this page directly to others in your community who might wish to learn about this campaign, click the “E-MAIL TO FRIENDS” button and type in as many addresses as you wish.

For more information, please contact HelpHOPELive at 800-642-8399.

Thanks for your support!