Transplant Type - Kidney/Pancreas

We're thrilled to announce that Robert received his transplant on Feb. 19, 2011!

Robert was an insulin-dependent diabetic for 30 years, which eventually resulted in end-stage renal disease. Doctors said a kidney/pancreas transplant was critical to his survival. While awaiting his lifesaving transplant, he endured rigorous dialysis treatments three times a week, which left him exhausted.

Despite these challenges, Robert fought to beat this illness for his family, including his wife, Nanette, and their young son, Ryan. They are his entire world, and he hates that his illness consumed so much of his energy, preventing him from playing with Ryan as often as he'd like.

Before his diabetes worsened, he loved to scuba dive and play golf, and he hopes to return to some of his normal activities once he fully recovers. He looks forward to traveling with his family and enjoying a meal without worrying about such a strict diet. More than anything, he wants to spend many more years with Nanette watching Ryan grow up. But he needs your help.

A kidney/pancreas transplant costs more than $425,000. And that's only the beginning. Even with insurance, Robert 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.

Although he worked hard in school to become a union electrician, his health prevented him from working, adding to his financial strain. Robert had to temporarily relocate nearly 275 miles from his home to be near the transplant center for at least 2 months during recovery, incurring substantial expenses for travel, food and lodging.

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

Thank you for your generosity!

Patient Health Institute: Shands at the University of Florida