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Our son, Christopher Zerfass (24), was diagnosed with Alport’s Syndrome at the age of 10 and is now in end stage renal failure. His doctors at Leigh Valley Hospital have told us that he is in need of a life-saving kidney transplant. We are now in the process of hoping to find a matching donor who will give him the “gift of life.”
Through the years, Christopher bore each change the disease made to his body in silence. Not out of shame, but because it just wasn’t going to get the best of him. He was not going to let it define him. Until now.
In March 2013, he was diagnosed with a nonmalignant brain tumor and underwent a successful brain retraction of the tumor. The tumor, unrelated to his Alport’s, needed quick treatment which meant an MRI with contrast. The downside of a clearer picture was the strain the contrast puts on his kidneys. His kidney function is now is at a critical stage.
While most young men facing dialysis or a transplant would have cause for fear or despair, Christopher has persevered by telling everyone, “it’s in God’s hands” putting his faith and very life in the hands of the Lord. His family and friends pray that it is God’s will that a donor be found soon so he can continue to affect more lives as anyone that meets him is touched by his aura of peace, love and kindness.
Even with insurance there are many expenses related to the transplant that must be covered out of pocket. Some of these expenses are co-pays, deductibles and Christopher will be on a life-time of anti-rejection medications.
A fundraising campaign in his 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 HopeHELPLive in the Mid-Atlantic Kidney Transplant Fund, and are administered by HopeHELPLive for transplant-related expenses only. Please consider making a contribution.
On behalf of Christopher and each of us, thank you for your kindness, generosity, and support.
Dolores Zerfass Chris Zerfass
610-945-7815 610-739-5843
dzerfass@nhnepa.com chriszerfass@gmail.com
Today 04/21/2017 --We are celebrating the National Donate Life Month in recognition of those who's lives have been changed through transplant.
I was asked to write a short story about what "new life" means to me and the impact its had on my life through living donation!
What new life means to me:
I was lucky enough to receive the gift of life from my Father, Chris Zerfass, September 10th, 2014. At 24 years old, receiving my kidney transplant has allowed me to see what else life has in store for me. Everyday I wake up thankful for this opportunity my Dad has given me. Since transplant I have grown closer to people that mean the most to me and made new friends, I have fallen madly in love with the girl of my dreams, Meghan, we’re getting married in September and currently in the process of buying our first home, I have stood by my best friend of 26 years while he married his soul mate, Kelly, AND I have recently learned that there will be a new addition to the family this October (my future Niece OR Nephew)!!
My new (61 year old) kidney has allowed me to experience so many beautiful things in life! Without it who knows if I would’ve been fortunate enough to experience these amazing life events. I am humbled by the amount of support I receive daily from my family, friends and fiancé. There is no greater joy in the world to me than to be surrounded by the amazing people I have in my life. I am blessed beyond belief and through my faith in the Lord I know I will continue to be.
-Christopher Zerfass
Just wanted to send out an update on Christopher. It has been some time. Time sure does fly, life is just so busy.
By the grace of God Christopher's health has been good ;) No bumps in the road for him. He has been to date very successful with the transplant.
He has since moved back to Philadelphia, didn't waste much time getting back to the city of brotherly love! Christopher loves the area, his now significant other (to be) resides there. Yes, to be!
In August 2016, Christopher got engaged to Meghan Geiser! We are truly blessed with this Gem and so is Christopher. We couldn't have asked for a better, better half for our son! The wedding is planned for September 29th, 2017! We are excited and are looking forward to this HAPPY event and his continued good health!
Thanks again for all your support;
The Zerfass Family!
Just a quick UPDATE:
Christopher, since transplant is doing well. He recently moved to Philadelphia and is continuing with his career at CPS. Living Life to the fullest and is very happy! BLESSINGS!
Dad, is doing well too. Continuing in the "getting back to good health" after a very long 10 month recovery. He is back to working harder than ever!
Please continue to keep them both in your prayers for continued GOOD health!
With much love and appreciation;
The Zerfass Family!
Greetings Friends and Family;
Just wanted to update you on Christopher and his dad, Chris.
Christopher is doing VERY well, no signs of rejection, Dr. is very happy with his progress and he is feeling really good!
His Dad, Chris is still struggling getting through his recovery. It's been 3 months and he is STILL having unresolved health issues. I ask all of you to PLEASE continue to keep them both in your prayers as they continue on their road to recovery!
We wish all of you a VERY Healthy Blessed Holiday Season & New Year!
Love & Best Wishes;
The entire Zerfass Family!
Just wanted to send an update on the both Christopher and Chris.
Christopher is doing well, getting back to "normalcy" work, play etc. While Dad is still struggling from the transplant surgery. He, (Dad) was recently admitted back into the hospital for infection, he's currently home now. Still has a port from the pancreas and now another from the kidney area. Need to get him back to GOOD HEALTH and feeling better. Please keep Chris in your prayers for his well needed recovery from this ordeal. While keeping both, Christopher and Chris in your prayer's as they continue in the recovery process of the transplant. Thanks again for all the support of Family and Friends! Much Love and continued appreciation; The Zerfass Family
A VERY SPECIAL UPDATE and Thanks
to Chris Zerfass for giving the “GIFT OF LIFE” to our son, Christopher Zerfass!
On September 10th Chris Zerfass (Dad) donated a kidney to our son, Christopher Zerfass it was quite a journey! While Chris (Dad) suffered MANY complications he is now on the road to recovery!
Christopher is starting to feel great and is back to living his life to the “fullest” of course, he would never have it any other way! Overall, although VERY tough at times, it was one of the most beautiful journeys to witness for both Christopher and his Dad! Please CONTINUE to keep BOTH of them in your prayers! They are both loved a great deal and have a LOT of LOVE & POSITIVE ENERGY!
A VERY special thank you in HONOR of Devin O’Connor for also lining up to GIVE “The Gift Of Life” to her friend Christopher what an amazing young lady!
The “Rally with Chris” Took place on September 7th!”
MANY THANKS to every one of you who made the RALLY WITH CHRIS such a great success!
MANY THANKS to all of you who made donations to make this a GREAT SUCCESS!
MANY THANKS to all of you who helped ME make this all happen! To the girls who spent ENDLESS hours, too many to mention, in making the baskets and preparing them for the auction. We made over 100 BASKETS and worked diligently until the last minute in getting all the last comer’s included in the auction. Just as we thought we were done, there were 15 more! Your dedication for the success of this event was just amazing! It took A LOT of work, time and effort to make it the BEST auction it could have been and that’s all because of each and every one of YOU! Your friendship, care, guidance, support, dedication and LOVE will never be forgotten! Hats off to Lisa Mertz, Lori Moyer, Jody Poniatowski, Teri Romanishan, Ruth Clark, & Karen Erthal I could have never done this without you!
MANY THANKS to the Food donations Nancy Sergent, Jody Poniatowski, Lori Moyer, Ariane Zerfass, Doreen Shaw, Anita Harris and to Pino’s Pizzeria & Restaurant of Nazareth for donating the Baked Ziti & rolls!
MANY THANKS to Richael Stoltz & Kiffle Kitchen and all others who donated the baked items!
MANY THANKS to John McDonald, Paul VanDoren, Lori Moyer, Lisa Mertz and Teri Romanishan for getting the baskets for the auction to Hecktown Fire Company in the pouring rain on Saturday night Sept. 6th! Talk about determination and dedication! Spending yet another night, endless hours loading and unloading basket setting up the tables 10 different ways 10 different times and placing and numbering the baskets!
MANY THANKS and GREAT JOB to the 3AM Band! Your donation of GREAT music was GREATLY APPRECIATED by all the attendees!
MANY THANKS to all the volunteer’s at the event, Richael Stoltz, Leanne Dunne, Anita Harris Gail Ballard and Teri Romanishan! You guys did a fantastic job with registration, T-Shirts and auction tickets! Thanks to Lisa Mertz and Lori Moyer for also participating in the 50/50 SALES!
MANY THANKS to Jody Poniatowski & Lori for maintaining the food stations while making sure the food never went empty!
MANY THANKS to Chad Cramsey @ Hecktown Fire Company for the donation of the Hall & to Mimi’s Balloons for the decorations!
MANY THANKS to Victoria Kunsman Shaffer for the BEAUTIFFUL prayer!
MANY THANKS to Robin Bestel for donation of the website: www.christopherzerfass.com
The Rally with Chris is just around the corner. We look forward to seeing you ALL there. Thanks again for all the support, help and donations! We are truly blessed!
The Zerfass Family
As you can see we added an event for Christopher to be held on September 7th please see link below and show your support by attending the event if you can, let’s rally him to recovery!!!
An update on Christopher. He is now scheduled for transplant on September 10th. Last test resulted in his kidney function being @ 14% His Dad will be donating. What a WONDERFUL "Gift of Life"
We are eager as a family to put this behind us, but we are MORE anxious to see our son Christopher LIVE a healthy LONG LIFE!!!
Thanks for all your support and prayer's
The Zerfass Family
Thanks again to all who have shown your support to Christopher and for keeping him in your prayers. We are continuing with the process for transplant as Christopher still holding @ 18% kidney function. He continues to live his life to the FULLEST and makes everyday count! He is and always will be an inspiration to all who know and LOVE him... Please continue your support with words on encouragement! With much appreciation and love; Mom/Dee Zerfass
Thanks to everyone for all the support and words of encouragement for Christopher!
We will keep you updated on his progress.
Please keep him in your prayers!
With our appreciation,
The Zerfass Family
Christopher I am a friend of your mom's. Just wanted you to know how inspiring your story is to others. I am so happy for you and Meghan. I have a very close friend waiting for a liver transplant so I know the difficulties involved. God Bless You
Josie S
I just wanted to tell you ONCE AGAIN Christopher what an AMAZING young man you are and how much you continue to INSPIRE my life EVERY DAY!
I love you;
Mom
You are in prayers - get well soon so you can visit My heart in Austin again - Thank you - God Bless You
Mary Ann Burke
All the angels here on earth are behind you - we will lift you through this!
A friend of your Mom...Marcy XO
Christopher,
I can't wait to see you after this surgery! You are an inspiration to me, and I am so Blessed to have you in my life....Kick butt and get healthy! You have so much life and love left to give all of us!!!
Love you so much!
Aunt Teri and Peter
You are a strong, kind young man who I feel blessed to know. As you go through this surgery, my prayers will be for a speedy recovery for both you and your dad. Xxx
Deb lunt
Hey Chris: You are an inspiration for the people you have touched, I am very proud to know you, and look up to you, with your always positive outlook on life, God Bless You.
Jeff Mertz
Hey Chris, your a smart, kind and thoughtful young man! I have no doubt in my mind that you will get through this, and thrive with a successful career! I'm praying for ya brother! Keep your head up brother! Because life is unpredictable and can throw a curve ball at you sometimes! Well stay strong bro! You have tons of support.
Rich Stoltz III
Christopher,
Just wanted to wish you a happy birthday, and tell you how much I admire you.
Your incredible zest for life, determination, tenacity, mental toughness and humbleness is a unique package cultivated by only a few. You are truly one of the toughest people I’ve ever met; and I’ve met plenty in my life. To run 10 miles on 18% kidney function is truly astounding. Your mental toughness and positive outlook on life is more than half your battle, and will help you tremendously in the days ahead, as you CONQUER this disease. Your mother worries about you every day, but I know, and FEEL in my heart, that this rare combination of characteristics you possess will carry you through with flying colors; and will lead you to live the healthy, vibrant life that is right around the corner for you.
So Happy Birthday young man, enjoy your weekend in CO….
Matthew Raudenbush
Hi Chris,
I wish all the best of luck and know your positive attitude will overcome these challenges.
Jonathan Ballard
if there any way the clark family can help just ask and i will see what i can do honey we will always be praying for you we love you keep you head up and enjoy your life the best you can if you need any one of are family members to see if we have a match call me we are willing be strong
the clark family
Our thoughts and prayers are with you Christopher! Keep your head and heart filled with positive thoughts!
The Kassis Family
In our prayers
Phi Kappa Theta-Nebraska Pi
Wishing you all the best!
Jane Brown
You are not only an inspiration to me, but to all who KNOW and love you Christopher!
Look at all the support you have! "We will get through this too" I will be by your side EVERY STEP OF THE WAY!
I love you!
Mom
I heard that your Dad is a match....Now, get better, be strong....We have a lot more memories to make.
Love you,
Aunt Teri :)
Teri Regan Maco
Keeping you in my thoughts and prayers brother bear! If there's anyone I know that can overcome something like this it's you bro.
Panda Bear
Stay strong Z, we are all praying for you and know that you will overcome this, just like you have so many other challenges. Keep faith and know that you have a large support group. Can't wait to see you.
James White
Love you buddy, stay strong. You have all the support in the world behind you. Can't wait for you to get back to Philly for a much needed reunion.
Cameron Crossley
You have all my support. Brothers for life big Z!
Mike Skulsky
Stay strong brother! Praying for you.
Woody
Z Baby! You are always in our hearts and prayers.
Restaurant Week Crew 4 Life:)
We are happy to support you! Prayers are with you .
Greg, Juli & Spanky Tulino
Christopher,
You are in our thoughts and prayers. Hopes for a speedy recovery!!
Andy, Kellie and Adam Stratz
Our thoughts and prayers are with you!
Anita & Hugh
You are the very definition of strength, faith, hope and love. We are here for you and support you every step of the way. You and your family are in our prayers. God bless you!!
The Fehrenbacher Family
Brother Christopher,
You are in my prayers.
ITB,
Jeff Jowdy
Jeff Jowdy
God Bless You. You will live a long beautiful life.
Nicole Hnatishion-Lewis
I will always be here to talk, pray, and help you Z any way I can. You are and always will be my brother
Bert
Love you Z babe! You have been there by my side through a lot recently especially after I came home from Florida, and I'm going to be there for you through this! Thank you for always be such a positive amazing person I appreciate everything you do! Prayers and strength for you, if anyone can get through this it's you!
Megan Prosser
Z you are one truly amazing person and I know you have the strength and power to get through this! I love you elementary school crush! always by your side!
Fink
You're in my prayers Z. Hope to see you soon! Love, your favorite northeast girl.
Chelsea Bryan
Prayers and thoughts going out to you Chris.
Russ,Sharyn and Chad Pysher
What a fine example of what it means to "Give, expecting nothing thereof.....". Sending positive energy your way, brother!
In the bonds,
Michael K. Markus
Phi Kappa Theta
Truman State University '81
Michael K. Markus, Phi Kap, Truman State University '81
Your courage inspires all Phi Kappa Theta Brothers!
Yours in the Bonds.
Kevin Lampe
Western Illinois University '83
former National President
Kevin Lampe Western Illinois University '83 former National President
Praying for you brother. See you in June!
Tyler Fehnel
Z - Love you bro. Erica and I are praying for you. Keeping putting your faith in The Lord. His strength is sufficient. Not even going to tell you stay positive, as I know you will because that is who you are!
The Potter Family
Hi Christopher, You are truly in my thoughts and prayers. I've had the pleasure of knowing you since you were 10 years old, since you and Ryan became good friends. I am honored and very proud seeing you as the exceptionable person you are today. Please keep your faith and strength. You can do it Christopher. Love Sheila (Aunt Sheila as you called me)
Sheila Gualano
Make checks payable to:
Help Hope Live
Note in memo:
In honor of Christopher Anthony Zerfass
Mail to:
Help Hope Live
2 Radnor Corporate Center
Suite 100
100 Matsonford Road
Radnor, PA 19087
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