Transplant Type - Kidney

We are thrilled to report that Dru received his lifesaving kidney transplant in November 2009!

Dru began experiencing health problems when he was in high school, but doctors were unable to pinpoint what was causing his symptoms. In April 2007, he went to the ER for dehydration and was told he needed to see a nephrologist as soon as possible. The next month, Dru was diagnosed with Alport Syndrome, a hereditary disease that often affects the kidneys. In Dru's case, Alport Syndrome causes him to lose fluids, which makes him easily dehydrated. He also suffers from high blood pressure and a loss of protein as a result of his illness. Doctors were able to control his symptoms for two years following his diagnosis, but recently the medications have stopped working. Doctors said a kidney transplant was his only hope for a second chance at life.

In April 2009, Dru received a perma cath in his chest and required dialysis three times per week. Despite his struggles, Dru remains positive about the future. He looks forward to life after receiving his transplant that will allow him to participate in the activities he once enjoyed, like sports and travel. Dru would like nothing more than to have his health restored so he can spend more time with his wife, Michelle. But he needs your help.

A kidney transplant costs approximately $250,000. And that's only the beginning. Even with health coverage, Dru faces significant medical expenses. For the rest of his life, he will need follow-up care and daily anti-rejection medications. The cost of post-transplant medications can range from $2,000 to $5,000 per month--and they are as critical to his survival as the transplant itself.

Please help! Your gift to the NFT Pennsylvania Kidney Fund will enable us to assist Dru with his transplant expenses. To make a secure online donation, please click on the link beneath Dru's photo. If you prefer to mail your gift, please send it to NFT Pennsylvania Kidney Fund, 5350 Poplar Ave., Suite 430, Memphis, TN 38119. Please be sure to write "in honor of Dru Stokrp" in the memo line.

Thank you for your generosity!

Patient Health Institute: Milton Hershey Medical Center