Transplant Type - Kidney

Demetria was diagnosed with Lupus, an autoimmune disease, at age four. After her kidneys failed when she was 18 years old, she was forced to begin dialysis treatments. Her doctors said a kidney transplant was her only hope.

In July 2008, Demetria's fiance, Scott, became her kidney donor to offer her a new chance at life. While the transplant was a success, Demetria faces significant financial burdens related to the transplant and her dialysis treatments.

The average kidney transplant costs more than $250,000, and that's just the beginning. Demetria will need a lifetime of follow-up care and daily anti-rejection medications to care for her new kidney. The cost of post-transplant medications alone can range from $2,000 to $5,000 per month, and they are as critical to her survival as the transplant itself.

Because the transplant center is several hours from her home, expenses for food, travel and lodging are steadily increasing -- sometimes causing her to miss appointments.

You can help! Your gift in Demetria's honor will enable NFT to assist with her transplant expenses. To make an online donation, please click on the link beneath her photo. If you prefer to mail your gift, please send it to NFT Arizona Kidney Fund, 5350 Poplar Ave., Suite 430, Memphis, TN 38119. Please be sure to write "in honor of Demetria Valenzuela" in the memo line.

Thank you for your generosity!

Patient Health Institute: Mayo Clinic in Arizona