Since then, I have endured seven surgeries and have encountered many medical complications. I am now blind in one eye, suffer from congestive heart failure, and have lived through two diabetic comas! My current medication regimen consists of 20 tablets per day and I receive dialysis three times per week. I am compliant with all medical requirements, all while helping to care for my elderly parents.

Despite my medical challenges, I’ve worked hard to keep a positive attitude and never lose faith for the promise of a brighter future. I am happy to share wonderful news in this regard. I have been accepted on the kidney transplant list at Mayo Clinic in Jacksonville, Florida. This gives me such hope as transplantation can afford me an extended and healthy life! However, in preparing for transplantation, I need your help.

While I have health insurance, many transplant expenses are not covered such as prescription costs for the monthly anti-rejection medications I will need to take for the rest of my life. I have been counseled that the transplant surgery itself will cost approximately $80,000 and I should be prepared for an initial $10,000 in out-of-pocket expenses. This presents a challenge I cannot meet alone.

I’m asking family and friends to join me in fundraising for the nonprofit Help Hope Live to help with critical expenses I will face. Donations to Help Hope Live can help ease the financial burden of a transplant, thus allowing me to focus on a healthy recovery.

Make a donation right now by clicking on the Give button or by calling 800.642.8399. Donations are tax deductible to the extent allowed by law, and all funds raised will be used to offset medical expenses as part of the Southeast Transplant Fund.

Help Hope Live is a national nonprofit that specializes in engaging communities in fundraising campaigns for people who need a transplant or are affected by a catastrophic injury or illness. Since 1983, campaigns organized by Help Hope Live have raised over $131 million to pay patient expenses.

Thank you!