Transplant Type - Kidney

Since the mid-90s, Mike's kidney function has steadily declined, as he suffers from polycystic kidney disease (PKD), a genetic disorder that also afflicts his mother, who had a successful transplant. Mike's kidneys currently function at just 4 percent, and doctors say a kidney transplant is critical to his survival. Sadly, he has been on the transplant waiting list for more than three years, and he hopes to receive the call that a lifesaving donor match has been found soon.

After receiving his transplant, Mike looks forward to living a normal life and spending much less time in doctors' offices. For the past three years, he feels like his life has been consumed with evaluations, check-ups and appointments, as well as searching for a kidney donor. Despite these challenges, Mike can always rely on the children he teaches to put a smile on his face. He has volunteered and worked professionally teaching children with autism for the past 13 years. He loves teaching them skills like reading and math, but it's truly special to watch them play sports for the first time and see them develop socially and make friends. One day, he dreams of getting married and starting a family of his own, but right now Mike needs your help.

A kidney transplant costs approximately $250,000. And that's only the beginning. Even with health coverage, he faces significant expenses related to his transplant. For the rest of his life, Mike will need follow-up care and daily anti-rejection medications. His post-transplant medications can be very costly, and they are as critical to his survival as the transplant itself.

When he receives his transplant, Mike will have to temporarily relocate 650 miles from his home to be near the transplant center for at least two months during recovery, incurring substantial travel and lodging expenses. Because of his declining health, he had to reduce his teaching hours, adding to the financial strain.

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

Thank you for your generosity!

Patient Health Institute: Emory Transplant Center