UPDATE .. Steve received his new heart on May 7th ... is doing well ... has been home and then back in the Hospital again ... but over all doing great ... his medical bill is hugh ... and his medicines that he needs monthly is still very much needed ... So any and all donations are appreciated! 5/25/2012 Dear Friends and Family, Many of you know my big brother, Steve Apida. Steve is 46 years old, the wonderful father to Kristin, brother of Barb and Joanne, a compassionate son, fun loving uncle and good friend to many. Steve is a talented maintenance mechanic who can fix everything from lawn mowers to large industrial equipment. There is nothing he can't fix. Ten years ago, Steve was diagnosed with an enlarged heart and was given a pacemaker. His health has rapidly declined and he is no longer able to work. Steve has spent much of his time in and out of the hospital. His doctors at Saint Luke's Hospital of Kansas City have told us that he is now in need of a life-saving heart transplant. This is Steve's only shot at a long and healthy life. With your help, we can give Steve the full life he deserves and his daughter Kristin a father to cheer when she graduates from high school this May and goes on to college to pursue a career in nursing. However, due to the astronomical expenses associated with heart transplantation, funding this life-saving operation is a monumental task. Even with insurance there are many expenses that must be paid for out of pocket. Some of these expenses are deductibles, co-pays and Steve will be on a life-time of anti-rejection medications. This presents a challenge that we cannot meet alone and desperately need your help. A fundraising campaign in Steve's honor has been established with HelpHOPELive (formerly NTAF), a nonprofit organization that has been assisting the transplant community for nearly 30 years. All donations are tax deductible, are held by HelpHOPELive in the Midwest/West Heart Transplant Fund, and are administered by HelpHOPELive for transplant-related expenses only. You can help make a difference in Steve's life. Please consider making a contribution today.Thank you for your consideration in our desperate attempt to give Steve a second chance at life. On behalf of Steve, myself and our entire Apida family we thank you for your kindness, generosity and prayers. James Apida 803-642-5814 jaapida@hotmail.com