As featured on MSNBC’s Countdown with Keith Olbermann and in The New York Times
Family and friends of Francisco Felix are raising money to pay for uninsured medical expenses associated with transplantation. The father of four has not been able to work and help support his family for about 2 years. He is staying positive and hopeful that somehow, some way, a miracle can happen and he may be given a second chance at life. He was diagnosed with Hepatitis C in 2006, and in mid 2010 he was diagnosed with cancer of the liver.
Francisco has Arizona medicaid insurance and for budget reasons, the state made the decision to cut back funds for some transplant patients. He is one of the many people affected by this unfortunate situation.
In mid November, life seemed to have changed for the good when a family friend unexpectedly passed away and had donated her liver to Francisco. However, as the budget cuts had become effective October 1st, he and his family had to come up with $200,000 by 10:00 am the morning after the friend passed away. It was a very tight and short time frame. Sadly the money was unavailable and Francisco was sent home empty handed. In early December, Francisco was informed that his life expectancy without the transplant is about 12 months.
Please help Francisco and his loving family reach their goal, and his second chance at life. His greatest wish is to be priviledged to see his 4 daughters walk down the aisle.
The hospital has informed Francisco that he must raise $500,000 for the transplant procedure and post-transplant care. Francisco has chosen to fundraise with HelpHOPELive – The Leader in Fundraising Assistance and Support for Transplant and Catastrophic Injury in part because HelpHOPELive provides both tax-deductibility and fiscal accountability to contributors. Contributors can be sure that funds contributed will be used only to pay or reimburse medically-related expenses. For more information, please contact HelpHOPELive at 800-642-8399.
Thanks for your support!
Updates (4)
December 16, 2010
Seventh-grader raises money for death panel victim
December 15, 2010 MSNBC's Countdown with Keith OlbermannThirteen-year-old Carlos Olivas, Jr., talks about his attempts to raise money for a liver transplant for Francisco Felix of the NTAF Southwest Liver Transplant Fund.
November 24, 2010
Death Penalty Invades Arizona
Friday, November 19, 2010
MSNBC's Countdown with Keith Olbermann
Francisco Felix and family are featured
December 3, 2010
Arizona Cuts Financing for Transplant Patients
December 3, 2010 (www.nytimes.com)
The New York Times
PHOENIX — Even physicians with decades of experience telling patients that their lives are nearing an end are having difficulty discussing a potentially fatal condition that has arisen in Arizona: Death by budget cut ... Read full story
November 24, 2010
Outrage in Arizona
Tuesday, November 23, 2010
MSNBC's Countdown with Keith Olbermann
Flor Felix, wife of Francisco Felix is featured
Photo Galleries (1)
Loading Images
Guestbook
September 2, 2011
what is being done to help this guy
muahme az
April 29, 2011
i would like to know what other event they r doin have been trying to look for them to donate things for them to raise money but lost them at there last location if u can please reply thank u
rivera m. az
January 10, 2011
In reply to the Enders Family, California: Thank you for your concern for Francisco Felix. Tragically, a second transplant patient in Arizona passed away last week. However, this patient was not Mr. Felix, nor any of the other transplant candidates who are fundraising through NTAF. Our thoughts and condolences go out to that individual's loved ones during this very difficult time.
NTAF Management and Staff
January 10, 2011
PLEASE UPDATE INFO ON MR. FELIX! (today is Jan 7, 2011) We want to donate to Mr. Felix but we need to know first of his status. We heard on tv, that a second patient just died unfortunately. (NOTE: this message was edited by site moderator)
Enders Family, California
December 29, 2010
Best of luck to you my friend. I can only imagine what you are going through and I say that because I have just been put on the heart transplant list here in Miami, FL. Fortunately, I have Medicare and Blue Cross to cover most of the expenses but I would be in the same situation as you if they decided not to cover the transplant.
I know there are a lot of people out there hoping and praying for you and I know you'll get the support you need from those of us who believe everyone in this country is entitled to a happy and healthy live...not just those who can afford it.
Adam Rogers / Miami, FL
December 29, 2010
Francisco, usted y su famila esentaran en nuestras horaciones, Dios quiera y lo fondos necesarios sean recaudados pronto. Siga adelante con fuerza y corazon por su esposa e hijas. Se ve que su familia lo apoya, y ese apoyo es la mejor medicina que le dara la paz para vencer cualquier tristesa, dolor y miedo que se le presente. Dios los Bendiga Siempre
Esperanza y Patrick Garcia/PHX AZ.
December 28, 2010
Why hasn't the fundraising total been updated since 12/17/2010? I'm interested in helping/donating, but the total has not been updated for over 10 days. Has Mr. Felix received enough money for his transplant yet?
Tom/Minnesota
December 23, 2010
to:Francisco Felix, hemos hecho una donacion para usted hoy, via esta pagina de web (we have made a donation to you today, via this website)
to:MSNBC/Keith Olberman, thank you for always looking out for the real news and humane causes that matter.
to:the voters in Arizona, why in the world are you voting into office such evil people like j.brewer, r.pearce, and j.arpaio?
Taylor Family, California
December 16, 2010
We are wishing you and your family all the best.
Liz and Gil, Rohnert Park CA
December 16, 2010
querida Familia Felix..
solo les kiero decir ke no nos vamos a dar por vencidos.. los milagros okurren y Dios es grande y no nos va a dejar solos en esta lucha.. la esperanza es lo ultimo ke se pierde.. Tio no nos vamos a dar por vencidos tan facilmente.. I love you tio nd tia.. God bless our family.
Diana De la O, Phoenix Az
December 16, 2010
Hi, Francisco - I, too, learned of your story on Keith Olbermann's program and wanted to do my small part in hopefully helping you toward your goal of funding your transplant. I hope to continue with more donations in the coming months as well. I cannot understand the coldness of Gov. Brewer (nor know how she was ever elected to that office!). She is a cruel, hard-hearted person to turn her back on those whose very lives depend on her and the policies she controls in the state of AZ. I pray that you will soon meet your goal and will be on your way to a transplant. May God go with you and your dear, sweet family and bless you all.
Martha (SE Louisiana)
December 16, 2010
I'll keep it short, good luck bro. I'm unemployed so I couldn't do much, but it won't be the last time I try to help you.
Joe Morrell/ Brick, NJ
December 15, 2010
As a reminder, the purpose of the NTAF Patient Guestbook is to leave messages of support and encouragement for patients and their loved ones facing medical crises. Spam and/or inappropriate messages will be removed to preserve the intent of our Patient Guestbook.
NTAF Management and Staff
December 14, 2010
Thank you "D" and "An American"! You have shown us the light and I'm sure Francisco is calling off the fundraiser as we speak! How brilliant, avoiding liver cancer, afterall it is a choice; just like the only ways to contract Hep C is on purpose!....Why even spread your darkness to this website? No one is interested. And since you love to hear yourselves talk, rehearse what you will say when your time comes. No laws, health insurance, race/ethnicity will matter then, but the way you treated and judged others will.
Ephesians 4:29-32 (Read it)
December 14, 2010
Best wishes for the Felix family.
Floridian
December 10, 2010
Francisco,
I think laughter is the best medicine. Did you know that the Wright Brothers first flight at Kittyhawk lasted for eleven seconds? When they landed they couldn't find their luggage.
All the best from (coffee) Beantown!
Joe Donovan, Seattle, WA
December 4, 2010
Francisco, I saw you on Keith's show. Your governor has no heart, pero estamos dispuestos a ayudarle. Feliz Navidad!
Bonnie Shelley, Santa Rosa, CA
December 3, 2010
To the Felix family. I heard about your situation via Countdown with KO. I've sent a contribution to Team Felix at NTAF. Stay strong.
Karen Sonleitner/Austin, Texas
December 3, 2010
Dear Francisco, I read today in the New York Times that you and your family are having a yard sale this weekend to raise funds. Can you please provide me with more information. I work with a political party here in Arizona who is interested in helping you bring more attention to this issue.
StephanieAdames@gmail.com -AZ
December 3, 2010
Dear Francisco: your situation was brought to my attention by Keith Olbermann on Countdown and I hope with the aid of donations made through this organization you will be able to have a successful transplant and I wish you and your family all the best.
Michael Ford/New York, New York
December 3, 2010
Felix Family,
It is my pleasure to have Carmen as one of my most engaged and invested students! She is going to achieve so much in her life and I know that she will reach her goals because of the strong support system her family has provided for her! Our thoughts and prayers go out to the Felix family!
Ms. Abernathy's Family -- Phoenix/Seattle
December 2, 2010
I was moved by sadness and outrage after seeing and hearing about you and your family's plight on Keith Olbermann to come here and donate some money. I never do this usually. But it's the season of giving, right? I hope that others will also, and that you will get all that you need. I cannot believe that the Arizona legislature and governor have turned their backs on people who need transplants, calling transplants "optional" services that the state doesn't need to pay for. I do not believe that the opportunity to save a human life should ever be "optional". She should be ashamed of herself. I wish you and your family the best.
Dave Arguelles, Seattle, Washington
December 1, 2010
While I disagree with Keith Olberman's premise that this constitutes a "Death Panel" but is instead just another insurer (the government in this situation)denying a claim, thank god we have fund raising efforts like this one. Because if the government ever gets full control of our healthcare they will ration care (not just the insurance) and many will not get the care they need no matter what money they have or don't have or how much they raise through efforts like this one. God Bless and prayers to you and your family.
David Ihde, Steamboat Springs, Colorado
December 1, 2010
I pray and hope for a successful transplant for you. Your governor, Jane Brewer is a heartless individual, lacking compassion. Do not dispair,--there are many caring people who are wishing you the best. God bless you. Love,peace---Jean Avila
jean Avila, Mount laurel,N.J
December 1, 2010
We are a fixed income couple (62 & 57) in Montana, and we are praying for your family and you. Hope this helps. We wish we could do much more. Love to you all. John and Janice Hammerel.
John and Janice Hammerel
December 1, 2010
Dear Francisco,
Your governor and legislature in AZ may be heartless, but your fellow Americans are not. I am making a contribution to your transplant fund in the hopes that you can live and continue to be a father to your children. God bless you.
Sherry / Washington DC
November 30, 2010
I am contributing to you today. I watched your story on Keith Olbermann's show, and witnessed the strife you and your family are enduring. Please know that GOD is with you and your family and you will have all you need soon. God Bless.
Darlene McDaniel / Munster, Indiana
November 28, 2010
My friend just died from organ failure, unable to get a transplant. In Rick's memory I want you and your family to have a healthy and happy future. He would be outraged to hear what our government has done to you.
Nancy Silver, Asheville, NC
November 26, 2010
Please know that many are hoping the best for you and your family. There will always be government. It will always have alot of money to spend -- the question is, what will we choose to spend money on. I'm hoping we'll choose to spend it on our people and making life better for all who live here. Evidently, this is not the choice currently being made in Arizona. How can it possibly benefit anyone to deny you a transplant? The answer to that might underscore what a cold decsion this really is. Stay strong and the best to you and your family.
Janet Walker, Chicago, IL
November 25, 2010
Francisco,
Although I am unemployed and have donated what I can, because I believe that the wicked prevail when good men do nothing. Is this what they mean by "trickle down"? Is this what they mean by "compassionate conservatism"? Best wishes in your struggle for good health.
Dennis O'Keefe/Dunellen, NJ
November 25, 2010
Dear Mr. Felix & family,
Thinking of you on Thanksgiving Day. My family has also been impacted by liver failure. Due to the inhumane thing which has happened to you, I hope for you to get enough money raised for your transplant & perhaps to get residence & help where the wait time is shorter than the national average (FL);
http://www.shands.org/hospitals/UF/service/transplant/liver/transplantliver.asp
http://www.mayoclinic.org/liver-transplant/statsjax.html
best wishes
Amanda, Mesa AZ
November 25, 2010
Felix Family-Stay strong; God is on your side. Espero que todo va cambiar muy pronto.
Sincerely,
Familia La Farge, Pico Rivera, CA
PS: I will send a donation today.
Robert La Farge, Pico Rivera, CA
November 24, 2010
Hello Francisco, I saw you and your beautiful family on Countdown with Keith and I am so sorry for the unnecessary pain that Governor Jan Brewer has caused you. I just made a small donation and there are a lot of caring people in this country who I am sure will do the same. A liver match will be found for you soon! My thoughts are with you and your family. Maybe someday we will have a public option in this country, so that this tragedy won't happen to other families. Stay brave and vote Democratic!
Faith, Beaverton, OR
November 24, 2010
Hi Felix family, please remain positive during these tough times. I pray that Francisco receives a successful transplant. Our governor is currently on a power trip, she's making many changes, changes that affect the lives our Arizona citizens like you and me. Hopefully she will realize that she's playing with people's lives. We need changes that are for the well being of all Americans, all Arizona citizens! It's time to wake up!!! We stand united and wish you the best. Francisco mantenga fe, y espero que sepa que mucha gente le desea lo mejor y esperemos en Dios que usted tenga muchos anos mas de vida.
Trujillo/Bartel family, Chandler AZ
November 24, 2010
Francisco, I just donated to your cause, thought I wish it could have been much more. Buena suerte, my friend, and know that I, my family, along with Keith Olbermann, and many others, wish you well.
Charles and Chris Miller, Longmont, Colorado
November 24, 2010
The Governor of Arizona needs a lesson in humanity! What an unbelievable and unspeakable situation you and your family have been placed in. I have watch both yours and Randall Shepherds stories on Countdown and feel privileged to be able to contribute to both of you. As I also told Randall, my only wish is that I could afford much more. My best wishes are with you and your family.
Vicki Brownlee, West Virginia
November 24, 2010
I saw your wife speaking on Keith Olbermann's show. She did a great job and is a very gracious lady. As a nurse who is the director of surgery of a major university hospital in Chicago, I was shocked to hear of the Governor of Arizona's horrific decisions on cutting health aid to Arizona citizens.I wish you the best of luck and am humbled by your family's story. God Bless you!
D.Mitchell/Chicago, Illinois
November 24, 2010
Heard you Flor on MSNBC. Francisco I am sending you a small check tomorrow. I hope many others will do the same. Stay positive.
Pat Gypp Sarasota, Fl.
November 24, 2010
Acabo de terminar escuchando tu entrevista con Keith Olbermann y dejiste que no estabas segura si Obama tuviera algo que ver con la decision de Jan Brewer aunque no creias eso. Como la gobernadora, era su decision, no la decision de Obama que cortaba los fundos para tu esposo y los demas. Queria decirte eso para que sepas que no tenia que ver con Obama, solo Brewer.
Marian de Haas/Santa Fe, NM
November 24, 2010
To the Felix family, may God bless all of you. You are a brave family!! I sent a small donation, and wish you all the best.
L Chicago, IL
November 24, 2010
I received a liver transplant 4 years and 5 months ago. It is totally shocking that your transplant was stopped by an uncaring government. I will pray for your transplant. I know what it's like on the other side. Life is so much better.
Steve Dawson/Stormville, NY
November 23, 2010
Dear Felix family,
I heard on Countdown about the crime committed by telling you that you could get a transplant and then -- oh! sorry! -- we can't keep our word. I wish I could have sent much more money but I had to quit work because of health problems and have my own battles to get the prescriptions I need to keep alive. Buenas suerte y vaya con dios y familia.
Kath Buffington, Rochester, NY
November 22, 2010
No dé para arriba la esperanza. Deseo el mejor para usted y su familia. Estoy enviando un cheque hoy.
Connie Kaufman
November 22, 2010
Dear Felix family, I saw your plight on Keith Olberman's show. I was shocked and saddened. My sister and I decided to forgo our Christmas gifts to each other and instead donate to you and Randall Shepherd. You will be in my prayers that soon you will get your transplant and be well. It was cruel to cancel your surgery. I do not know how those who did this can live with themselves. We thank Keith for letting us know that this kind of travesty is going on in our country. God Bless you and your family.
Bonnie Pederson, Poulsbo, WA
November 21, 2010
Dear Felix Family,
I hope that your prayers are answered soon. I know that I have a lot to be thankful for and I hope that my small contribution helps you achieve your goal...a healthy, bright future for all of you! God Bless you and my family will be praying for you. Thanks to Keith for letting the world know of Jan Brewer's disgrace...again!!
Linda Merrins /St. Louis, MO
November 21, 2010
Dear Felix, My husband and I saw your story on Keith and were so touched by it. It breaks our hearts to see people having to suffer this way. What happened to you and Mr. Shepherd is so so wrong. We have donated to both of you and pray that God will keep you well until you can get your transplant. Don't give up. Everyone in this country deserves healthcare. Shame on Jan Brewer for being so heartless. Your family and the Shepherd family are in our thoughts and prayers
Richard and Sandra Hammond Columbus,Tx
November 21, 2010
Mr. Felix, may God bless you and your family.I was moved to help after seeing you on t.v. Don't give up because The Lord needs you here. Best wishes and Happy Thanksgiving. Thank you Keith for putting this message out for America to hear.
Amy Pena
November 21, 2010
Yo vi a usted ya su hermosa familia en cuenta regresiva y le dijo a mi marido me gustaría un regalo a su médico como mi regalo de cumpleaños de él para mí. Mis mejores deseos para su recuperación.
Gina Hofner/Fernandina Beach, Florida
November 21, 2010
My contribution is not much, but I hope it will help. I have no health insurance, so can understand the fear involved with needing healthcare and having no way to pay for it. Have a blessed holiday season.
D Crouse/Phoenix, AZ
November 21, 2010
Good luck, Francisco! You have a valuable ally in Keith Olberman!
R.Chelius, New Jersey
November 20, 2010
Mr. Felix, My husband and I wish to contribute to your health. We saw you on "Countdown," and we greatly lament your illness and also lament the barbaric political leadership in Arizona. Best of everything to you. Our check on your behalf will be in the mail today.
Don & Judy Bennett; Rociada, NM
November 20, 2010
Dear Felix
My partner and I decided the best gift we could give each other this Christmas is giving a donation to you. Angels exist. We are angels for each other. We hope you and your family have a blessed holiday. Thank-you for being the person who gives others the opportunity to say that love for others does exist in this crazy world!
Phyllis Rheem, John Fargotstein, Phx
November 20, 2010
Learned about your healthcare problems on Countdown. Everyone deserves good healthcare. Wish you and your family the best.
Kavi Family, Dallas, TX
November 20, 2010
I knew nothing about this until I saw you on Countdown. I am moved by your situation. I am a North Carolina paralegal who works for Legal Aid. My practice is centered around Medicaid and Social Security disability cases. I understand what you are going through because I see clients every day who cannot get the treatments they need. I hope that you are well and please know that your country is behind you and supports you and your family as you go through this challenging time.
My Spanish is poor, but I will try: Aprendi sobre su situacion durante Countdown con Keith Olbermann. Tengo empatia para su situacion. Mi trabajo es como asistente legal para Ayuda Legal. Mi especialidad es en casos de Medicaid y Social Security. Entiendo su situacion por que mis clientes tambien no pueden obtener los tratamientos que los necesitan. Espero que este bien y sepa que todo el mundo apoya usted y su familia en este tiempo dificil.
Michelle Carmon, NC
November 20, 2010
I WILL CONTRIBUTE FOR YOU.. BET TO YOU AND YOUR FAMILY.
BRUCE W SLACK
BRUCE W SLACK
November 20, 2010
Mr. Felix,
My wife, Adrienne, and I became aware of your situation by watching the Olberman show. I'm sending a donation and will keep you in our prayers.
Dan Montoya, Parker, CO
November 20, 2010
My son and I are also on AHCCCS.
I'm an Army vet, and we were taught in the Army that, after a firefight is over, if you come across any wounded enemy, you MUST medically help them and bring them to a medic.
How is it that the Army teaches to treat the wounded and dying, no matter what side they may have been on, yet our own state government is willing to let its own citizens die? I was shocked, disgusted and deeply ashamed!
I'm sorry I could only give a very small amount. But I hope and pray to God all the small amounts can add up to a new life for you and your family! :-) God Bless!
Briana Warner/Scottsdale, AZ
November 20, 2010
Francisco, I made a small donation with the hope and prayer that you can raise enough to have your liver transplant. I've also sent a request out to some of my friends. Stay strong and God Bless
Joe Gurrieri/Mesa Az
November 20, 2010
I will send this to my facebook friends. Warm wishes to you and your beautiful familia.
Hannah/Kansas
November 20, 2010
Was astonished and upset upon hearing of your situation after listening to the Olberman show. Hope all goes well.
Mike McNickle/Joshua Tree, Ca
November 20, 2010
Dear Felix. I wish you and your family the best and I am very sad to hear about what has happened. Thanks to Mr Olberman, more people are now informed.
Lene Maxwell, MI
November 20, 2010
I was heartbroken to hear your story on Countdown. I hope that you do get your transplant and regain your health. Blessings on you and your family, Mr. Felix.
Galen Gregory/St. Louis MO
November 20, 2010
May my drop in the bucket of your need be followed millions more. You are loved by more people than you realize.
Sara Perpetua
November 20, 2010
I pray you find a new liver very soon. You have a lovely family that needs you to be with them for a long, long time.
Cheryl Pasque/Eureka, Montana
November 20, 2010
Good luck, Francisco, to you and your family. Thanks to Keith for bringing this to light.
Nino & Laurie Bonura, Covington, LA
November 20, 2010
Mr. Felix, I pray for your recovery and for the happiness of your family. I am appalled that a situation like this can happen in the United States. My family is doing what we can to help. I pray that your transplant can occur soon with the help of other like-minded Americans. Thank you Keith and MSNBC for bringing this horrifying issue to light.
Matt Radico, Springfield, PA 19064
November 20, 2010
There are times when I am amazed at the lack of feeling on the part of elected officials. We will be strong, we will survive and we will help you too. God Bless you and your lovely family.
Regina H., St. Charles, MO. 63301
November 20, 2010
Wish it could be more. My hope is that you do well. Thank Keith
Kathy Wrest/New York
November 20, 2010
stay strong...this was a terrible thing the state of Arizona leadership put you and your family through. Another organ will come your way....God Bless
Kathleen Mooney/Los Angeles
November 20, 2010
Praying for your health and those beautiful daughters. Hope many others will contribute to make your transplant possible.God bless you
M. Mares, South Texas
November 20, 2010
Good luck Francisco!
Hope this helps, praying for you!
Deborah Graham, Bolingbrook, Il.
November 20, 2010
May God bless you and your family. I pray that your transplant successfully occurrs soon.
Sincerely,
Connie J Luton, Omaha, NE
Mail a Check
Make checks payable to:
Help Hope Live
Note in memo:
In honor of Francisco Felix
Mail to:
Help Hope Live
2 Radnor Corporate Center
Suite 100
100 Matsonford Road
Radnor, PA 19087
Donor preference is important to us. Please specify in writing if you wish for your name or donation amount to be kept private.
Get updates for this campaign
Subscribe to this campaign to receive updates.
