Gene’s first surgery was on May 31, 2014 when a left ventricular assist device (LVAD) was implanted. The LVAD is a mechanical pump used to support heart function and blood flow in people who have weakened hearts. While this is keeping him alive, he cannot be on this devise forever. He has undergone extensive testing at the University of Virginia Hospital and doctors tell him he is a good candidate for transplant.

However, he will not be put on the transplant waiting list until he has raised enough money to pay for the initial post-transplant anti-rejection medications estimated at $7000. Even with insurance, Gene is facing other costly expenses including relocation to be closer to the University of Virginia Hospital, travel to and from the center, co-pays and more.

To help with the financial burden of Gene’s uninsured expenses, a fundraising campaign in his honor has been established with HelpHopeLive, a trusted nonprofit organization that has been providing community-based fundraising to patients for more than 30 years. All donations are tax-deductible, and held by HelpHopeLive in the South-Atlantic Heart Transplant Fund, and are administered by HelpHopeLive for transplant expenses only. Please consider an end-of-year tax deductible donation. Each and every contribution counts.

For credit card contributions, please click the Donate Now button.

Thank you for your prayers, support and generosity.

Gratefully,

Mary Johnson, Gene’s mom
434-851-0373