Donnie Rudd

Donnie Rudd

Transplant Type:  Double-Lung Transplant

Donnie Rudd is fighting for his life. Ten years ago, he began to feel tired and was often out of breath.  It was found that he suffered from interstitial lung disease (pulmonary fibrosis). His condition has continued to decline, and now doctors say a double-lung transplant is critical to his survival.  While awaiting his transplant, Donnie relies on an oxygen tank for every breath.

During such a challenging time, Donnie is thankful to be surrounded by a strong support system of family and friends, who have been by his side every step of the way. He wishes that they didn’t need to be so concerned about his health, but is thankful for their love and support.

Before he became ill, Donnie loved meeting friends for breakfast, going to auctions, and collecting antiques, but these days, his activities are quite limited.  Donnie looks forward to the transplant that will allow him to breathe without a struggle and spend many more years making memories with his loved ones, but right now, he needs your help. 

Unfortunately, Donnie’s hope for a new life comes at a very high price.  The average double-lung transplant costs more than $1 million. And that’s only the beginning. Even with health insurance, which will cover a portion of the transplant costs, he faces significant expenses related to the surgery. For the rest of his life, he will need follow-up care and daily anti-rejection medications. Post-transplant medications are very expensive, and they’re as critical to his survival as the transplant itself.

You can help by making a tax-deductible donation to NFT in honor of Donnie. If you'd prefer to send your gift by mail, please send it to the NFT North Carolina Transplant Fund, 3249 W. Sarazens Circle, Suite 100, Memphis, TN 38125. Please be sure to write "in honor of Donnie Rudd” in the memo line.

Thank you for your generosity!

Transplant Center:  Duke Cardiac Transplant Center