Dear Family and Friends,
As some of you may know, I was diagnosed with diabetes at age two and have struggled throughout my life with the complications associated with this disease. Four years ago I was diagnosed with severe Gastroparesis, or paralysis of the stomach. Initially I received nourishment intravenously, but ultimately I had a total gastrectomy, at which time a feeding tube was placed. Although this worked for a few years, my small bowel has now stopped functioning and the feeding tube has been removed. Now, I receive nourishment intravenously again, which makes me highly susceptible to infections and requires frequent hospitalizations. At this point, my doctors at the University of Pittsburgh have told me that my only chance for survival is a multi-visceral transplant (stomach, small bowel, and pancreas).
I am a single mother of two beautiful boys, ages eight and 14. Until four years ago, I worked as a medical assistant. I truly loved my job and found real happiness in taking care of others. Due to my failing health, I was forced to stop working. Everyday I struggle with nausea, vomiting and severe pain. I really just want to be able to live a normal life, raising my boys to be happy. They truly are my life.
Transplantation is life-saving, but also extremely expensive. Even with insurance, I will have numerous out-of-pocket expenses. Post-transplant, I will have to relocate to the Pittsburgh area for at least six months. There will be daily visits to the hospital for biopsies, blood tests, and rehabilitation to insure there is no organ rejection. I will also have to cover deductibles, co-pays and the costly anti-rejection medications I will have to take for the rest of my life.
To help offset these expenses, a fundraising campaign in my honor has been established with HelpHOPELive (formerly NTAF), a nonprofit organization that has been assisting the transplant community for nearly 30 years. All donations are tax deductible, are held by HelpHOPELive in the Mid-Atlantic Multi-Visceral Transplant Fund, and are administered by HelpHOPELive for transplant-related expenses only. It is never easy to ask for help, and now is certainly no exception. However, funding this life-saving transplant is a challenge I cannot face without your help. Your financial gifts and prayers are greatly appreciated.
With sincere gratitude,

Randi Wishard
717-328-5121