Richard Gassaway

My name is Jennifer Gassaway. I want to make you aware of what is going on with my husband Richard. In January (2025), Richard found out he has a rare genetic disorder that causes the total loss of both kidneys. It is known as Alport syndrome and there is no cure for this disease. It can also lead to hearing loss as well as vision problems. It is likely that he will have surgery this fall to begin daily, self administered, home dialysis. His doctor told him that the only way to restore his kidney function is with a kidney transplant. Richard has completed all the tests and shots needed-He is now on the transplant list to receive a new kidney. We found out a donated kidney can take anywhere from (2) weeks to (2) years. Richard will have to take rejection medications (estimated $500 to $1000 dollars a month), for the rest of his life. Richard is 60 years old, we live in Waco, Texas and the plan is to have his transplant surgery at Baylor Scott and White Hospital in Temple, Texas.

Beginning in 2014, both of us combined, have had (5) major surgeries all occurring in different years. After insurance, the out of pocket for these surgeries, totaled over $56,000 dollars. We have and plan on to continue monthly paying back the money we owe for these past surgeries. Richard and I are both members of First Methodist Church in Waco. Members of our church have decided to help Richard with a fundraiser for his transplant. Richard’s fundraising goal has been set at $30,000 dollars. We decided to use Help Hope Live. They are a nonprofit organization, and all contributions are tax deductible. Help Hope Live assists clients with their campaigns and pays their medical bills for them. They also provide fiscal accountability for funds raised which helps protect the client with tax implications as well as government benefits if needed in the future. Our church members are calling the fundraiser, for my husband, the Richard Gassaway 100 Challenge. It is a challenge to donate at least $100 dollars to Richard’s transplant fund. If you accept this challenge, you can make a $100 dollar donation all at one time, $50 dollars 2 months in a row or $25 dollars 4 months in a row. Some have told us they can do more than the $100 dollars-What a blessing and loving gift from you. It is much needed and appreciated. Each person knows in their mind and heart what they can do-Any help from you is a God sent gift to my husband. Any donation amount made toward Richard’s transplant is a lifesaver for Richard. All donations made to this fundraiser go to transplant related expenses only.

Finally, what’s important is Richard loves our Lord Jesus Christ. I am asking for your Prayers for Richard to Our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. God has a plan for him, God is good and Listen’s to our Prayers. Thank You Lord for our Blessings. Thank You all for helping my husband-May God Bless each one of you for your help and Prayers.

Jennifer Gassaway