Karen Otto

Dear Family and Friends,

Many of you know my loving wife of 50 years Karen Otto. She is the mother of our five children Kevin Thomas, Bonnie Jo Stoke, Connie Bruno, and Carrie Jacobsen. Our youngest son, Joseph Otto Jr. passed away in 1973 from a brain aneurism at the age of eight. We have seven grandchildren & two great grandchildren. Karen has always worked hard raising our beautiful children. She enjoys walking, hiking, camping, and sight-seeing, loves to play cards and cook especially for our family and friends.

What you may not know is that four years ago, Karen was diagnosed with cancer and had 1 kidney removed. She is now in end stage renal failure. She is a courageous woman but is unable to do most things now due to her deteriorating health. Karen’s doctors at the Mayo Clinic in Phoenix have told us that her only option now is a life-saving kidney transplant. Karen does have a potential living donor that is being tested for compatibility. Karen’s determination, fight and will to live are incredibly admirable and encouraging to me and our family.

We are now up against a challenge that we cannot meet alone. Not only is a transplant major surgery, it is also very expensive. There are many costs that must be paid for out of pocket. Some of these are co-pays, deductibles, and travel and relocation expenses during the transplant. In addition, Karen will be on a lifetime of anti-rejection medications.

A fundraising campaign, in Karen’s honor has been established with HelpHOPELive (HelpHOPELive). HelpHOPELive is a nonprofit organization that has provided fundraising assistance to the transplant community for over 27 years. All contributions are tax-deductible to the full extent of the law. Please consider making a contribution today.It is never easy to ask for help and now is certainly no exception. Karen has touched the lives of many and we deeply appreciate the support she has received. At times like this the assistance of family, friends and the community is crucial to help ensure a positive quality of life.

On behalf of Karen, myself, and our entire family, we thank you for your kindness, prayer and generosity.

With sincere gratitude,

Joe Otto
928-704-5499

Contributions are tax-deductible to the extent allowed by the law. This campaign is administered by the HelpHOPELive,
a 501(c)(3) nonprofit providing fundraising assistance to transplant and catastrophic injury patients. Information: 800-642-8399.