Transplant Type - Lung

When Ken was 33, he was diagnosed with Alpha-1 Antitrypsin Deficiency, a disease that also affects his cousin and aunt. After Ken became increasingly short of breath, his doctor ran tests and did blood work, which led to his diagnosis. Sadly, Ken's father died from Alpha-1 many years ago. Doctors have told Ken a double-lung transplant is essential to his survival.

Despite his health issues, Ken remains positive and is thankful for the opportunity to have a second chance at life. He relies on his strong faith and the support of his family to get him through this difficult time. An avid outdoorsman, Ken is unable to participate in his favorite activities like boating, fishing and hunting because of his poor health. He wants nothing more than to return to his normal life without depending on an oxygen tank. But he needs your help.

A double-lung transplant costs approximately $650,000. And that's only the beginning. Ken 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 he requires supplemental oxygen 24 hours a day, Ken had to leave his job as a truck driver, adding to his financial strain. When he receives his lifesaving transplant, he will be required to relocate hundreds of miles from his home to be closer to the hospital for at least three months.

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

Thank you for your generosity!

Patient Health Institute: University of North Carolina Hospital