Transplant Type - Heart

Kevin cannot remember a time when he wasn't considered a "heart patient." Between the ages of 5 and 23, he underwent five open-heart surgeries. Eventually, in 1992, he received a heart transplant. Although his new heart worked well for many years, Kevin began feeling very weak in 2008. After a few months of testing, Kevin learned he had developed Coronary Artery Vasculopathy. Doctors have told him another heart transplant is his only hope for a second chance at life.

Despite these challenges, Kevin relies on his faith to keep a positive outlook on life. He still enjoys the little things in life, such as taking drives through the country roads near his hometown and going for short walks when he's feeling well enough. Kevin looks forward to his heart transplant and hopes it will allow him to spend many more years with his wife, Kelly, his daughter, Christina (17), his sons Sam (23) and Joe (29), and his 2-year-old grandson.

A heart transplant costs approximately $750,000. And that's only the beginning. Even with health coverage, Kevin still 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.

Until recently, obstacles with Kevin's insurance kept him from being added to the transplant waiting list. He is finally able to resume the process and hopes to be added to the waiting list soon. Although he worked many years as a helicopter mechanic, he has been unable to work for nearly a year due to his health, adding to his financial strain.

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

Thank you for your generosity!

Patient Health Institute: St. Luke's Episcopal Hospital