In October 2023, Leo’s kidney health began to decline. He fought to keep them going on his own until September 2024, when he started daily dialysis at home.
We are working with UAMS in Arkansas as a candidate for a kidney transplant. However, the costs associated with a transplant are overwhelming. This includes routine appointments prior to surgery, lodging and gas as it’s almost 4 hours one way, the surgery itself, post-transplant recovery for 4-6 weeks while staying in a hotel near the hospital, immunosuppressant medications (for the remainder of his life), and routine post-op appointments.
Leo is a Corporal at the local Sheriff’s office and works day in and day out to provide for our family. He’s one of the most genuine people you’ll meet. If you’re ever in a bind, he’s the one to call. No matter what time it is, he’ll be the first one there, ready to help. While we both work full-time in law enforcement, we have 4 young children at home who rely on us to keep a roof over their heads and food in their bellies. The cost of the transplant could significantly change their lives too.
Waiting for a kidney could take anywhere from 2-15 years, depending on where it’s coming from. While we wait, Leo is doing everything he needs to do to stay healthy enough for the transplant and survive to watch our kids grow up.
Every donation, no matter how small, will make a significant difference in his journey towards a new kidney and a second chance at life with his family, friends, and community. Please share our story. Your generosity and kindness mean the world to us! Thank you from the bottom of my heart.
