Robert Tamburello

My Journey: The Road to Surgery-Palooza

Life has thrown me more curveballs than I ever expected. I was born with posterior urethral valve syndrome, a condition that severely damaged my kidneys and bladder from the start. In my twenties, my right kidney had to be removed. In my thirties, I lost my bladder. Now, in my forties, I’m facing the biggest challenge yet: my only remaining kidney must be removed.

That means a several months on dialysis—not exactly the dream vacation I was hoping for—before I can receive a life-saving kidney transplant. And with that transplant comes something I’ll need for the rest of my life: anti-rejection medications, which come with an astronomical price tag.

It’s overwhelming, to say the least. But if there’s one thing I’ve learned on this journey, it’s that I can get through anything with hope, humor, and an incredible support system—which is where you come in.

I’m partnering with Help Hope Live a 501c3 nonprofit that helps people like me raise funds for medical expenses that insurance doesn’t fully cover. Every single donation goes directly to my medical costs and related expenses, ensuring I can focus on healing instead of drowning in bills. A bonus for you is that any donations you give on my behalf are tax deductible!

How You Can Help:

   •   Donate – Every dollar helps me get one step closer to my transplant and recovery.

   •   Share – Spread the word like it’s the biggest event of the year (because, for me, it is).

   •   Support – Send a message, a meme, or just a good vibe—every bit of encouragement means the world.

This isn’t the path I would have chosen, but it’s the one I’m on, and I refuse to walk it alone. Your support gives me strength, hope, and the motivation to push forward. Let’s make Surgery-Palooza 2025 a success—so I can come out stronger, healthier, and ready for a future filled with way less time in hospitals and way more time with my family.

With gratitude and determination,

Rob