Transplant Type - Kidney

We are thrilled to report that Paul received his kidney transplant on August 8, 2011!

In 2008, Paul learned his iron level was too low when he tried to donate blood. After his iron level was still too low weeks later, a nurse at the clinic encouraged him to see a doctor. His physician ran blood work, and referred him to a hematologist. Two more rounds of blood work and tests revealed that Paul was suffering from glomerulonephritis, meaning his kidneys are unable to filter waste and fluids.

Eventually, Paul's kidney function dropped to just 10 to 15 percent, and doctors told him a kidney transplant was critical to his survival.

While awaiting his lifesaving transplant, Paul endured dialysis treatments three days a week. He looks forward to living without depending on dialysis to keep him healthy. Paul is anxious to return to his normal way of life, especially being able to drink as much water as he would like. Because fluid retention is dangerous for dialysis patients, Paul was on a very restricted diet for both food and liquids.

When he feels well enough, Paul enjoys taking walks and riding his motorcycle. He wants nothing more than to spend many more years with his friends and family. But he needs your help.

A kidney transplant costs approximately $250,000. And that's only the beginning. Paul 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.

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

Thank you for your generosity!

Patient Health Institute: Integris Nazih Zuhdi Transplant Institute