James Frost

Your support brings hope to a husband, father, and attorney devoted to helping others — now he needs our help in return. James is a 52-year-old Deaf husband, father, and attorney who has spent his life giving his all — to his family, his clients, and his community. He and his wife Anne, also Deaf, are the proud parents of four CODA children (hearing children of Deaf adults): Madison, Joseph, Emma, and Aurora. James has balanced his busy legal career with an active family life, always devoted to supporting and nurturing his loved ones. But in 2022, everything changed. James was diagnosed with Stage 4 liver cirrhosis — a life-altering condition that came as a shock. His medical team still doesn’t know the cause, but they suspect it may be genetic. After years of managing symptoms and fighting to stay strong, James has now been approved for a liver transplant and is waiting for a donor liver to become available.

James has built his legal career around community-based law, representing and advocating for low-income and disabled clients, and engaging in advocacy work to promote fairness and justice for those who might otherwise not have a voice. Whether inside or outside the courtroom, he has dedicated himself to helping others through their toughest battles — and now he faces his own. Outside of work, James is known for his curiosity and zest for life. He loves reading, learning about history, camping, boating, and traveling — especially family trips to Disney World. A double major in Politics and English with a minor in Spanish, James is always up for a thoughtful conversation about the world around him. He and Anne share a wonderful sense of humor and a love of “couple comedy” — finding joy in laughing together, even through the hard days. They also love exploring new restaurants, from cozy Italian spots to Japanese sushi bars.

Unfortunately, his illness has taken a serious toll. The progression of liver disease has led to hepatic encephalopathy, causing memory loss, slower thinking, and disorientation. He now relies on detailed notes to keep up with his cases and has temporarily stopped driving, depending on Anne for transportation to court appearances and medical appointments. He also struggles with fatigue, muscle cramps, and disrupted sleep, all while maintaining a strict low-salt, low-sugar diet.

Now, James needs our help.Even with insurance, the out-of-pocket expenses for his transplant and recovery will total at least $20,000 — and could double or triple if complications arise. These costs include copayments, deductibles, and the high price of anti-rejection medications required after surgery.

James dreams of the day he can return to his normal life — back to his law practice, back to his family trips, and back to Table Rock Lake, his favorite peaceful getaway. Most of all, he wants to see his two youngest children graduate from college and continue building memories with the people he loves most. Please consider donating to Help Hope Live in James’s honor today — and help him get his second chance at life. You can also support by spreading the word about our fundraising or helping our team plan fundraising events in his honor.

If you’d like to get involved and help our team fundraise the money needed, please contact his wife, Anne, at [email protected]. Thank you for reading James’s story and for your generosity, kindness, and hope.