Transplant Type - Kidney/Pancreas

Ellen has battled diabetes since she was 22. As a result, she now suffers from a variety of connected illnesses, including gastroparesis, Addison's disease, autonomic neuropathy and recurrent hypoglycemia. Her health even declined to the point that she was found unconscious several times due to low blood sugar, despite having an insulin pump. Doctors said a kidney/pancreas transplant was her only hope for a second chance at life.

Thankfully, she received a lifesaving pancreas transplant in September 2009. As a result, her kidneys began working properly and she no longer needs a kidney transplant.

Ellen has high hopes for the future. She knows a lifesaving transplant will allow her the freedom to live without constantly monitoring her blood sugar levels. Ellen looks forward to the day when her husband, children and grandchildren no longer have to worry about her health. But she needs your help.

A pancreas transplant costs approximately $275,000, and that's only the beginning. Even with health insurance, Ellen faces significant medical expenses. For the rest of her life, she 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 her survival as the transplant itself.

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

Thank you for your generosity! With your help, NFT can help change Ellen's life.

Patient Health Institute: University of Virginia Health System