Transplant Type - Kidney

In 1992, Tom learned he had cysts on his kidneys, and he was later diagnosed with Polycystic Kidney Disease (PKD). Sadly, his father died for PKD when Tom was just 2 years old.

Doctors have told Tom a kidney transplant would allow him to live a normal life. He was added to the transplant waiting list in 2007 and is scheduled to receive his lifesaving transplant from a generous living kidney donor in February 2010.

Tom is anxious to feel well enough to be more active, work part-time, do volunteer work and spend more time with his family and friends. After receiving his transplant, Tom plans to enjoy eating foods he is not allowed to consume because of his illness. He is thankful for the opportunity to have a renewed chance at life, which will allow him to spend many more years with his wife, Betty, their children and four grandchildren. But he needs your help.

A kidney transplant costs approximately $250,000. And that's only the beginning. Although medical insurance covers the actual cost of the transplant, there are many costs that are not covered. Some expenses include the kidney donor's travel, lodging, caretaker and loss of income. Tom will face significant expenses related to his transplant.

For the rest of his life, he will need follow-up care and daily anti-rejection medications which can range from $2,000 to $5,000 per month--and they are as critical to his survival as the transplant itself.

Because of his declining health, Tom had to retire from his job as a truck driver, adding to his financial strain.

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

Thank you for your generosity!

Patient Health Institute: Mayo Clinic in Rochester