My friend, Vicky Cobb James is a single mother that lives in Dowagiac, MI. where she’s worked for many years as an apartment community manager. Vicky is a loving mother, grandmother, and friend. In 1976, she contracted hepatitis C from a blood transfusion with the birth of her first son. The hepatitis attacked her liver, and in 2013 Vicky was diagnosed with liver cancer. A liver transplant was her best hope for survival. On January 4, 2014, Vicky was given a second chance at life when she received her transplant, but she is facing extraordinary transplant related expenses.

Throughout this frightening ordeal, Vicky has been extremely thankful for such a strong support system of loved ones. Before her illness took such a toll on her body, she loved walking her dogs and being active with her family. Now, more than anything, she simply looks forward to spending more time with her children and grandson after recovering from her transplant. She will have the opportunity to watch her youngest son graduate this year.

Vicky is kind, generous and always there to help anyone that needs it. Now, she needs your help. Even with health insurance, Vicky still faces significant medical expenses related to the surgery including travel expenses for the 300 mile round trip for follow-up visits, and co-pays and deductibles for the costly immunosuppressant medications that she will have to take for the rest of her life.

To help with this financial burden, a fundraising campaign Vicky’s honor has been established with HelpHOPELive, a nonprofit organization that has been assisting the transplant community for 30 years. All donations are tax-deductible, are held by HelpHOPELive in the Great Lakes Liver Transplant Fund, and are administered by HelpHOPELive for transplant-related expenses only. Your contribution is greatly appreciated.

Your financial gift and offers of support will be greatly appreciated. If you would like to volunteer to help with a fundraiser, please let me know.

With sincere gratitude,

Cynthia Salmons, Vicky’s Friend
269-462-2149