My name is Franklin, and I’m a 57-year-old father of five. I’ve been a dedicated worker since I was 17, with over 15 years in public service in Massachusetts, including public schools and state government, and local schools here in Florida.
In 2022, my life took an unexpected turn. I was diagnosed with end-stage kidney failure, a condition that had quietly worsened, especially after battling COVID. This, coupled with pre-existing heart and vascular disease, led to me recently being deemed disabled. My wife is also on disability, leaving us with limited income.
Despite these challenges, there’s a beacon of hope: I’ve been accepted onto the kidney transplant waiting list! This incredible opportunity comes after dedicated efforts to improve my heart condition, making me strong enough for surgery. A donor match could appear at any moment, as my waiting list eligibility is backdated to my original diagnosis.
However, this life-saving transplant comes with significant logistical and financial hurdles. When a donor is found, I’ll need to relocate to the Miami area immediately. Post-transplant, I’ll require three months of medical observation and recovery there.
My current disability income simply isn’t enough to cover these essential expenses, which include:
Relocation costs
- Food
- Local transportation to and from the hospital
- Transplant medications are not covered by insurance
I’ve exhausted all my resources, including my retirement savings, in my fight for health. I understand that many are facing financial difficulties right now, but any contribution, no matter how small, will make a profound difference. Your generosity will directly help me afford these critical transplant expenses and give me the chance to live a healthy life for my family.
Thank you for considering supporting my journey.