Keith has a life threatening liver disease (Primary Sclerosing Cholangitis) which has only one cure – a liver transplant.
Keith has dedicated his life to his wife, Renee, and daughter, Krystal (age 8). He wants nothing more than to watch Krystal grow up and one day have a family of her own. Keith often volunteers his time helping others and asks for nothing but a smile in return. But, now he needs your help.
Mike Stapleton, Keith’s cousin, has volunteered to be a living donor, to give Keith a portion of his own liver. Mike was not even asked – he just walked up and volunteered. When asked why, his reply was simply “I do not want to see Krystal grow up without a dad, especially knowing that I could have helped save her father’s life.” Keith and his family consider Mike to be a hero, willing to give Keith the gift of life. Keith’s family want to make sure that there are zero expenses for Mike, especially since he is willing to sacrifice so much.
Liver transplantation is a major surgery. Both Keith and Mike will need help to finance this life saving procedure. There are many out-of-pocket expenses associated with medical tests, medications, doctor visits, travel and lodging, lost wages, etc. Keith’s and Mike’s families both enjoy helping others, but this time, they are the ones who need the help.
To help with some of their out-of-pocket expenses, a fundraising campaign in Keith’s honor has been established with HelpHOPELive, a nonprofit organization that has been assisting the transplant community for 30 years. All contributions are tax-deductible and are administered by HelpHOPELive for transplant-related expenses only. When considering your gift, please think of Mike’s selfless generosity.
The families of Keith and Mike thank you for your prayers and gifts of kindness. For more information, please contact HelpHOPELive at 800.642.8399.
Though we will never be able to repay you, we pray that God will forever bless you and your families.
Updates (37)
March 31, 2014
Keith has returned home. As if Saturday, his white count was above 4. He is feeling much better. He has a check-up in Pittsburgh on Wednesday to make sure the white count is still improving.
March 28, 2014
For those of you who don't know, Keith was admitted to the hospital in Pittsburgh on Tuesday. He was running a fever and feeling really rough. After blood work, it was determined he needed to be admitted. His liver levels are all great, but his immunity was very, very, low. His baby white blood cells were at zeros s have not yet increased. The transplant team, gastrointestinal doctors, and infectious disease doctors all believe it is due to one of his medications. We are just waiting now to see if taking him off and changing a bunch of his medicine helps his white count return to normal. The doctors are very concerned about infection. They have taken many tests to rule out infection. they also have him on IV antibiotics to avoid any infection. As a right now, he will not be released until the white count comes back to normal. He is at serious risk of illness. He is not allowed fresh fruit or vegetables, no outside food, no open drinks, no flowers, and little visitors. Everyone has to wear masks around him and wash before entering the room. The hospital staff all wears gloves and gowns when they enter the room. He cannot leave his room and the door must stay closed. It is definately an adjustment. Trying to get Krystal to understand has been difficult. She wants to run around and then come in the room, but she doesn't understand why she cannot until she washes up and wears a mask. I know she is just a kid, but it is very hard to get her to realize how sick Keith is and can get even worse if she brings any germs into the room. Hopefully the doctors discover what is wrong and we can all get back to life as normal.
March 18, 2014
Keith and mike are both going to Pittsburgh for a check-up tomorrow. Keith's pain has decreased, but he is still sore and tired. The two bleeding ulcers were causing the pain and fatigue. Hopefully everything goes well at the appointment. So far no signs of infection or rejection
March 4, 2014
Keith has been admitted to Pittsburgh. He has been dealing with a colitis flare-up for the past week. This morning he woke up with a fever. His liver levels are all good, but Pittsburgh wants to make sure he is not getting the flu or an intestinal virus. He is going to be in Pittsburgh for a few days. If the tests are all negative, then he should be back by Friday. Hopefully everything works out fine. I'll keep everyone posted on his progress.
January 8, 2014
Today was the 3 month check-up, and both Keith and mike are doing great! Both had cat scans. Mikey's liver has grown back, and Keith's is well on its way! Bloodwork still looks great. The doctor took out Keith's biliary drains. We are happy we don't have to worry or mess with those stupid things anymore! Both guys don't have to go back for 3 months! Thanks everyone for all your support and prayers!
December 4, 2013
Keith had an appointment at Pittsburg today. Everything is great! The doctors said all his labs look good. He returns in January for a CT and ultrasound to see how the has progressed. Thank you everyone for the prayers! God is surely answering them with a big yes!
November 26, 2013
Keith' biliary drains are inflamed. The coordinator doesn't believe it is infected, but she suggested getting it checked out by his local doctor. Hopefully everything is ok and it is just irritated and not infected. With the weather, a trip to Pittsburgh would not be to fun! I'll let everyone know the prognosis as soon as I can.
November 17, 2013
Thank you so much to everyone who worked, donated, and ate at the hog roast. We are so grateful for all everyone has done to help Keith and mike. I tried to thank everyone who came, but those of you I missed, thank you so much for coming and supporting Keith. We love you all and God bless!
November 15, 2013
I want to thank all of you who have so graciously given to Keith's campaign. I have tried to personally thank everyone, but for those who have donated anonymously or by check, I cannot. Therefore, I wish to send a special thanks to the aforementioned groups. We knew that a transplant was inevitable, and we have tried to save, but the cost of a procedure this great is insurmountable. For those of you who cannot give financially but have done contributed through prayer, I want to thank you, too. Without your prayers, Keith and mike would not have recovered so miraculously. I have said this many times to many individuals, but each time I say it do so with more conviction and belief in God's power. May God bless you all! It has been said that in good times our friends know us, in bad times we know our friends. During these last several weeks I have come to realize that Keith has so very many special friends. I know I cannot repay you all financially, but I do pray and thank God every day for all your generosity. One thing Keith wants to come out of all this is the need for organ donation. Please think hard about deceased donation. The person you may be saving isn't just a person. That person is a son or daughter, mother or father, brother or sister, or husband or wife. Thank you mike for your great gift. I am still in awe over the gift you have given Keith. Mike, you have also given a gift to my husband, Krystal's father, Larry and Doris's son, and many people a good friend. I do not want to sound cliche or monotonous, but all I can say is thank you from the bottom of my heart and may God forever bless you!
November 6, 2013
Both appointments went great! Keith doesn't have to go back next week! He has to return in one month!! His levels are almost normal! The doctors are super pleased with how well he is recovering. Mike goes back in 2 months. He is going to have a cat scan to see how his liver is regenerating. Both are doing really well. Thank you all so much for the support and hope to see at the hog roast!
November 5, 2013
Keith and mike have appointments tomorrow afternoon in Pittsburgh. I'll let everyone know how it goes!
October 31, 2013
Everything came back ok from the ultrasound yesterday. He had blood work today and another trip scheduled for Pittsburgh next week. I'll let everyone know how it goes!
October 30, 2013
Keith has an appointment at upmc today. The doctor removed all his staples. His creatin and bilirubin were good. His anti-rejection level was perfect. His alpha- phosphate level was twice as high as it should be, so they were concerned. They are doing an MRI on him right now. This way they can see immediately if there is a problem. They don't anticipate anything major, but they want to be safe. I'll catch everyone up on more news later!
October 23, 2013
Mike went home today! He is great!!! And super, surprising news KEITH HAS BEEN RELEASED TO GO HOME!!!! We were shocked! It has been 15 days since the surgery.., and the doctors are so impressed! Mike must have a super liver! Keith has to stay way from crowds and those who are sick or have a cold. He has to get blood work once a week and return to Pitts every week for the next few weeks and then wean back to every other week, once a month, to eventually once a year. Everyone,s prayers have been amazing! Thank you all so much! God definitely works miracles, and Keith is shining example! Keith is still vulnerable, and will be very much so for the next three months, so your continued prayers are definately welcome! God bless you all for your warmth, caring, and sincerity thus far! I will continue to keep everyone up to date with Keith and mike's progress next week and the weeks to come.
October 22, 2013
Keith's creatin is lower today but they still put him on one liter of fluids. He looks and feels better than yesterday. Mike has an appointment tomorrow and then he can go back home.
October 21, 2013
3pm. The doctors have Keith fluids for 4 hrs. His creatin level was high, so they want him back for blood work tomorrow. They are hoping the fluids they gave him will bring his levels down. I'll catch everyone up tomorrow
October 21, 2013
Keith Is being given an IV drip because he is dehydrated, which would account for his tiredness. Otherwise, he and mike are both doing great! If I hear anything else from the doctor, I will let you all know!
October 18, 2013
Keith had a drain removed that morning. He is off his blood pressure medication. All his labs look good. He still feels tired, but I try telling him that's normal. The doctors are still impressed with his progress. Mike is doing really good. He has been on the treadmill and his pain is greatly decreasing. Next visit is Monday, so I'll inform everyone then!
October 17, 2013
Mike is doing wonderful! He walked 3 miles! Keith is still sore and tired, but he is doing well. Keith has an appt at the hospital tomorrow morning, so hopefully all goes well!
October 16, 2013
Keith is out of the hospital! He still has his drains, but he is doing great! He walked up and down 6 flights of stairs! The doctors were shocked! He is very tired, but in super spirits. We are all so thankful for the prayers and support!
October 15, 2013
Mike is out of the hospital! Keith will probably be out tomorrow. Keith still has his drain and biliary tube in. He was walking up and down stairs several times today.
October 14, 2013
10-14. Keith and mike are both looking and moving great! Both are eating solid foods. Mike had his heart monitor removed today. Keith is no longer on IV pain meds, just oral. Keith could be out in a few days, too! All the doctors are impressed with how well both have progresses so quickly!
October 13, 2013
10-13. Keith and mike are looking great! Both have been out of bed and moving around almost all day.
Mike had his IV taken out today! He might be able to leave the hospital in a few days.
October 12, 2013
10-12 Keith and mike took a walk together. It was great! Both are looking well and moving around. Neither are on food yet, but it will take time. I took Krystal to Macy's today and she rode the escalator 42 times! it was a good way to get some energy out and provide some cheap entertainment!
Thanks so much for all the prayers and support!
October 12, 2013
10-12. Keith is doing great. He got up and walked the halls this morning. His blood work still looks good. His blood pressure has been high so the doctor put him on some BP meds and is has dropped. Keith is going to visit mike this afternoon and go for a walk together.
October 11, 2013
10-11. Keith is now out of ICU. Yeah!!! It was quicker than we expected. Everyone's prayers have been answered! We are not out of the woods yet, but both are doing good!
October 11, 2013
10-11. Keith is doing great. His eyes are starting to turn white again! He had the catheter and tube from his stomach removed today. He might get out of ICU soon. Thanks so much for the prayers and concerns.
October 11, 2013
10-10 6pm. Mike is out of ICU and into a regular room. Keith will still be in ICU for at least a few more days. All the blood work for both are looking good. Catch up with more news tomorrow
October 10, 2013
10-10. Keith is in a chair but the nurses have not had him try walking. He is still very tired and sore , but he is a little more talkative. Mike walked over to visit this morning. Everything seems to be doing ok!
October 10, 2013
10-9 9pm. Mike walked over to see Keith. Mike is off oxygen and moving around good. Keith had his heart catheter removed this evening. They are going to give him more pain medication now that the anesthetic has pretty much worn off. He is still very tired. They did move him into a chair for about an hour. The doctors and nurses say his blood levels look good and the liver is working well. I'll catch everyone up on more news tomorrow !
October 9, 2013
10-9. Keith has the breathing tube removed. They are going to remove the pulmonary heart catheter today. Mike is waiting for a regular room to open up so he can moved out of ICU.
October 9, 2013
9:40 am oct. 9. Keith has been taken off sedation and the breathing tube has been removed. He is not complaining of pain. He still has several lines and tubes hooked up, but they will slowly remove them in the next several days. Mike is doing great. He is texting and talking well. They will get him up today so he can be wheeled over to Keith. Post more as I know more! Thanks
October 9, 2013
8:30pm. Keith just got out of surgery. We can see him about 9. They are going to keep him sedated and on a ventilator until tomorrow. The surgeons said everything went fine. His old liver was black! They said it wouldn't have lasted much longer. Thank God for Mike! Mike is sore and thirsty but doing good. I'll update everyone when I know more tomorrow.
October 8, 2013
4pm. Mike is out and we just saw him. His first works were "mission accomplished". He will be in icu for 1 or 2 days, depending on how he does. Keith is still in surgery.
October 8, 2013
10-8, 3pm Mike is out of surgery! He is in recovery. All went well. Keith will be in surgery about 4 more hours. The old liver came out great and he is now getting the new one hooked up. The surgeon told Krystal they have been doing transplant at this hospital for 40 years, so they are both in great hands! Thanks so much for the prayers! We appreciate all the support. Continue the prayers, please, because they are not out of the woods yet!
October 8, 2013
10-8 Keith and Mike are both in surgery! Mike went into the OR about 8:15 and Keith went in about 10. No news yet, but we are hopeful! I'll let everyone know when Mike is out. Thanks!
October 5, 2013
update 2-29
UPDATE 9-29. Keith will be going into surgery on 10-8. Mike will be going in about 5:30am. Keith will soon follow. Keith will probably be in surgery about 9 hrs and then in the hospital for 7-10 days. Mike will be in the hospital for about 3-4 days. Mike will have to stay in Pittsburgh about 2 weeks while Keith will have to stay 6 weeks -2 months. We will post updates here as the surgery and recovery process evolves. Thanks!
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Guestbook
May 16, 2017
KEITH, MY NAME IS KENNY AND I ALSO NO WHAT YOU ARE GOING THRU. I MYSELF NEED A LIVER.AND GO TO PITTSBURG. I HOPE YOU ARE DOING WELL. I HOPE YOU AND YOUR FAMILY HAVE ALL MY BLESSINGS. STAY POSITIVE.
KENNETH BACKUS
March 29, 2014
I really hate to hear that, Rene. Hopefully, they can figure out what is causing this latest difficulty. Meanwhile, I'll be praying extra hard for you guys.
Aunt Sandy
March 16, 2014
Oh no!!! I just read this, Renee. I haven't been checking this site since both Keith and Mike have been home and doing so well. I know that March 4 was a couple of weeks ago, so I hope by now Keith is feeling a lot better by now.
Aunt Sandy
January 8, 2014
That's wonderful news, Renee!! I was so glad to hear that they are both doing so well. Yay!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Aunt Sandy
November 22, 2013
A lot of good has come through all of this. Beautiful is the way the parish has pulled together in the hog roast.......giving their time, talent, and treasure.
Keith, your ordeal has given strength and hope to many with liver disease and has made the public more aware of liver transplants. You have many fans in the parish and community pulling for you after hearing about you and Michael and/or reading the Gallipolis Daily Tribune, the Sunday Times Sentinel, and the Gallia Hometown Herald. Admirable is the way you have confronted this life threatening ailment with courage and faith.
Michael you have given a tremendous Christian witness of generous self-giving in helping your fellow man. That's what Christianity is all about. That's putting your faith into action. This is much more manly than lifting 300 pounds. All of this has shown how special a person you are. Continue to touch people throughout your life. May God bless the both of your abundantly.
Paul R. Sebastian
November 19, 2013
Keith - just read through all the postings. Great news on the recovery. This will definitely be an awesome Thanksgiving. I am so glad you and Mike are recovering so well. Looking forward to working with you some more this spring!!
Rest up!
Jeremy Tausch
November 1, 2013
Whoa! I'm so glad to hear that the ultrasound showed that there isn't a problem. I know he was concerned about the staple removal. Hopefully, it wasn't uncomfortable for him. :-)
Aunt Sandy
November 1, 2013
way to go, Keith! Keep improving and keep us posted on your progress. Love you....
aunt Kathy
October 28, 2013
I have been away from the computer recently!!! Yippee!!! I am super duper happy for you both! Keep those bad germs as far away as possible!!
Mike Sponable
October 24, 2013
The power of prayers! Awesome news! Keith, Mike, and the whole family will continue to be in our thoughts and prayers.
Aaron and Angie Jungbluth
October 24, 2013
Hi Keith, GREAT news, home already too, WOW ! Look forward to seeing you again.
Joe C
October 23, 2013
Glad to hear you are doing better. Thinking of you and missing you all. Hope to have you next door soon.
Tresa Ward
October 22, 2013
Kieth you are still in our prayers - Jackson Ave. Baptist Ch.
Chris Moody
October 21, 2013
Way to go guys!!
Ann Moody
October 19, 2013
What great news!!! Keep up the great progress guys!!!
Mike Sponable
October 16, 2013
Praise God. Continued prayers are being sent your way.
Diann Underwood Grubb (Renee's classmate LHS)
October 16, 2013
Wow, that is wonderful news. I knew he would be up and running in no time, well… running for our age, a fast walk. LOL
David Shaffer
October 16, 2013
Awesome guys!! I am so happy for you! Thank you Renee for keeping us up to date with everyone. I really apreciate it!!! Keep up the good healing Keith and Mike!
Mike Sponable
October 16, 2013
I am so happy for you guys. I know you all have been praying for this for a long time. So happy everything went great. love you guy!
kristen ward
October 16, 2013
That is great news! Who would have thought that they could make such good progress so quickly after such a serious surgery!! :-)
Aunt Sandy
October 14, 2013
Another good news day!! That's awesome. Thanks for keeping us posted on their incredible progress.
Aunt Sandy
October 14, 2013
That’s wonderful news!!! Hope all continues to go well. I told Keith that he would be up and running wind sprints in no time. LOL
David Shaffer
October 14, 2013
Out of the hospital already?!? That is great! Keep up the healing!
Mike Sponable
October 14, 2013
I am so happy to hear they are both doing well. I sent the link to the LHS reunion page and mine. You are in my prayers!
Jaclyn Lang Kollar
October 13, 2013
I enjoyed the pictures people posted on Facebook of Keith and Mike. It was good to see them walking together. They will always share a special bond because of this experience.
Wow! Krystal rode the escalator 42 times!!! That's funny! What did you do while she was riding it? It sure would be nice to have that kind of energy and stamina.
Aunt Sandy
October 13, 2013
Keith this all great news. Keep getting better.
Lance Lyons
October 13, 2013
Sounds great Keith and Mike! Keep up the good work and healing. I wish I could be there and watch you two shuffling down the hall way! It is great news!!!
Michael Sponable
October 12, 2013
Another positive update today!! YEAH! I'm so glad and relieved to hear that they are both doing so well. How are you and Krystal doing, Rene? I sure hope you are getting enough rest.
Aunt Sandy
October 11, 2013
Great job Keith and Mike!! Glad Keith is starting to look "normal". We are all praying for you guys! Keep up the great progress and healing!
Mike Sponable
October 11, 2013
Hi Keith and Mike! So glad all went well! Have been praying and will continue to pray for a speedy recovery!
Patty Hays
October 11, 2013
The Sisters of Notre Dame, Ohio are praying for Keith and Mike's quick recovery. My Mom requested the prayer intention where my late aunt was a nun. Keep up the great progress!
Aaron and Angie Jungbluth
October 11, 2013
Keith and Mike so glad the surgery is over, Prayers for a speedy recovery for both of you.
Diana Shillington
October 10, 2013
Thank you so much for the good news update about Keith and Mike!! It just brightens my day to hear that they are doing so well. It's totally understandable that Keith would be tired, but I'm sure he will get stronger and feel a little better every day.
Aunt Sandy
October 10, 2013
Sounds like everything is going as expected. I hope and pray that this continues. Wishing and praying for you both Keith and Mike.
Mike Sponable
October 9, 2013
Prayers to all of you for strength and healing!
Tera Stewart
October 9, 2013
Glad to hear that everything is going well and that Mike is up and mobile. Hope Keith will be up and mobile soon.
David Shaffer
October 9, 2013
Hoping for a speedy recovery for both Mike and Keith! Glad things are going well!
Monty
October 9, 2013
Praying for both to have a quick recovery!
Michelle Simms
October 9, 2013
Thanks for the update! I'm so glad to hear that Keith and Mike are doing so well this morning.
Aunt Sandy
October 9, 2013
Awesome!!!! I hope you have a quick recovery.Your prayers are with ya pal.
Scott Crawford
October 9, 2013
that is great news!!! Way to go Mike as well, very unselfish.
Bruce
October 9, 2013
Good Job Keith and Mike!!! I hope that Renee and Krystal are getting some rest now! Glad everything seems to be going well. Glad to hear the updates too!
Mike
October 9, 2013
I'm so happy for you Keith! I know you're in good hands from the Lord watching over you from above and all of your friends cheering you on. I pray for you a full recovery and hope to see you back at work soon.
John Harrison
October 9, 2013
Keith, I'm glad that the surgery went well, I will continue to pray for you and your family and that God will continue to bless all of your family. Looking forward to hearing from you.
Bryce Buckley
October 9, 2013
Keith and family, Our prayers are with you. glad to hear things are going well.
Nancy and Bob Sponable
October 9, 2013
We are so happy to hear the good news that all went well. Thank God that Mike has such a love and respect for life. His sharing is a lesson of love for all of us. You all are always in our thoughts and prayers.
Ann and John Caldwell
October 9, 2013
We are so glad the surgery went well. Nathan has several priest in the Knights of Columbus praying masses for you all. May God bless you and heal you.
Nathan, Theresa, Garrett, Cara, Gabe, and Caleb Frazee
October 9, 2013
Keith, very glad that surgery is over and went well now just work on recovery and hope to see you back to work soon!!!
Kim Hague
October 9, 2013
We are all thinking and praying for all of you!!!
Jennifer Matz
October 9, 2013
Keith, you and Mike are doing great! Everyone is in our thoughts and prayers!
Aaron and Angie Jungbluth
October 9, 2013
I am very excited you are out of surgery!! Keep thinking...eye of the tiger, Keith,....eye of the tiger!!!
Mike
October 9, 2013
Great to hear you are out of surgery!!!
David Shaffer
October 9, 2013
Keith you and your family are in our thoughts and prayers
Mike Buckle
October 9, 2013
Waiting to hear how surgery went. Hoping you are already eating on a bag of gummy bears!!!
David Shaffer
October 8, 2013
Mike, we will help you with what we can. Your gift of yourself is priceless and life giving. You are a very heroic young man.
Keith, we are praying that you get to see Krystal grow up and that she gets to see you get to a ripe old age!
Kurt/Christie/Gemma/Gianna/Alex/Anthony/Johanna/Maddalena/and Marianna Davison
October 8, 2013
Hope everything is going ok. If you need anything just call. Keeping you and the family in our prayers. Hope for a speedy recovery.
Your neighbors The Corbin's.
October 8, 2013
I have been praying for both of you all day!!!
Terri Jividen
October 8, 2013
Keith, you and Mikey have been on my mind all day. I'm hoping and praying that you are both up and running in no time and feeling great!!!
Aunt Sandy Mershon
October 8, 2013
Hey Keith!!!
You and your family are in my prayers!!!
Rhonda Smith
October 8, 2013
We are praying gor you and your family
Jackson Avenue Baptist Church, Point Pleasant, WV
October 8, 2013
Hope all is well. If you need anything, please ask.
David Shaffer
October 8, 2013
We are thinking about you and praying for you this morning .... Sycamore Lab GIrls !!!
Bev , AmyJo & Terri
October 8, 2013
Praying & thinking about u & Mike 2day!!! Hope surgeries go well! We'll check back 4 updates! Lots of love 2 u both!
Aunt Tammi & Uncle Pat
October 8, 2013
Well Keith, I am all ready for your updates and how well you will be doing. Good luck tomorrow! I will be thinking of you and your cousin all day. Have lots of people praying for you two also! Julia said a special prayer tonight for you Keith! Once again, Good Luck!
Love MIKE
Michael G. Sponable
October 1, 2013
Hope all goes well!
David Shaffer
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Help Hope Live
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In honor of Keith Davison
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Help Hope Live
2 Radnor Corporate Center
Suite 100
100 Matsonford Road
Radnor, PA 19087
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