Transplant Type - Liver

We are thrilled to report that Joseph received his transplant in January 2011 and is recovering well!

In 2008, Joseph was diagnosed with end-stage liver disease after he became ill and extremely weak. His illness caused swelling in his hands, feet and stomach and forced him to use a cane to walk short distances. Doctors told Joseph a liver transplant was vital to his survival.

Perhaps the most difficult part of the disease was the toll it took on Joseph's quality of life. He could no longer work on his motorcycle because his hands shook uncontrollably. He couldn't even ride the motorcycle because of his declining health and planned to sell it to help pay for his medical expenses. Joseph was in extreme pain all day and had so much trouble concentrating that he often becomes confused and lethargic, which is hard for his entire family to watch.

Despite his challenges, the moral support from his wife, Camille, two step-sons, mother, siblings and in-laws helps him look forward to the future. He wants nothing more than to once again spend time with his family and friends without them worrying about his health. But he needs your help.

A liver transplant costs approximately $500,000. And that's only the beginning. Joseph faces significant medical expenses related to his transplant. 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.

Because of the soaring medical expenses, Joseph and Camille were forced to leave their home and sell their vehicles. Joseph is not eligible for Medicare until 2011, and before Medicaid will help him he must pay the first $2,140 in medical bills every month--an impossible task for the Tomarazzo family.

Joseph worked many years as an equipment operator, but his deteriorating health forced him to quit, adding to his financial strain.

You can help.
To make a donation to NFT in honor of Joseph, click the link below his photo. If you'd prefer to send your gift by mail, please send it to the NFT Florida Liver Fund, 5350 Poplar Avenue, Suite 430, Memphis, TN 38119. Please be sure to write "in honor of Joseph Tomarazzo" on the memo line.

Thank you for your generosity!

Patient Health Institute: Florida Hospital