Joanna Chase

Joanna Chase

Transplant Type: Kidney/Pancreas

Joanna Chase is awaiting a new lease on life. In 1984, just before her fifth birthday, she was diagnosed with Type-1 Juvenile Diabetes. Although her parents managed her disease with constant blood sugar monitoring, insulin injections, and a low sugar diet, it was not easy. Unfortunately, Joanna is what is known as a Brittle Diabetic, meaning she has hard-to-control blood sugar. Over the years, the impact of very high blood sugar and very low blood sugar has taken a toll on her health and body.

In 2011, after a complicated pregnancy, Joanna learned that her kidneys were failing. She was diagnosed with end-stage renal failure. She was able to survive with 10% kidney function for a short time, but she went on dialysis in 2015. It takes a toll on her quality of life and leaves her tired. Doctors say a kidney and pancreas transplant is critical.

During this difficult time, Joanna is thankful for the love and support of her family and friends. She is a single mother of a 7-year-old daughter, Penny. Joanna lives with her mother and one of her brothers, because she is unable to live on her own due to her health problems and limited income. Joanna’s mother and siblings are her support system, and she is thankful for the help they give her and her daughter.

Joanna looks forward to receiving a transplant that will free her from dialysis and regulate her blood sugar. A second chance at life will allow her the chance to pursue her dreams—a job, her own home, and a long life filled with loved ones. She’s ready to have the energy to take part in outdoor activities and enjoy art and painting. More than anything, Joanna longs to be an active mom and watch her daughter grow up. But right now, she needs your help.

The average kidney and pancreas transplant costs more than $618,000. And that’s only the beginning. Even with insurance, which will cover a portion of the transplant costs, Joanna still faces significant expenses related to the surgery. For the rest of her life, she will need follow-up care and anti-rejection medications. Post-transplant medications are very expensive, and they’re as critical to her survival as the transplant itself.

Joanna lives more than 100 miles from her transplant center. When she receives her transplant, she will have to temporarily relocate to be nearby as she recovers, incurring substantial expenses for travel, food, and lodging. Her health forced her to stop working, further adding to her financial burdens.

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

Thank you for your generosity!

Patient Health Institute: Oregon Health & Sciences University