Kiven Leday

Kiven Leday

Transplant Type: Heart

What if you were living on borrowed time?

Kiven Leday has been given a second chance at life. He was diagnosed with heart disease after suffering a heart attack in June 2020. Unfortunately, he is all too familiar with enduring health concerns as he is a leukemia cancer survivor and a bone marrow transplant recipient. Kiven’s condition has continued to worsen, and doctors said a heart transplant was critical for his survival.

Thankfully, Kiven received his new heart on April 8, 2021, which is also his wedding anniversary!

Despite his recent health obstacles, Kiven is grateful to have a loving and supportive family. His amazing wife, Katina, their eight children, eleven grandchildren, family, and friends have been by his side every step of the way. Before his health began to decline, Kiven enjoyed fishing, walking, working as a truck driver, and being active with his family, but these days, his activities are quite limited. Kiven looks forward to fully recovering from his transplant so that he can live his life again. He wants nothing more than to spend many more years making memories with his loved ones, but right now, he needs your help.

Unfortunately, Kiven’s new life comes at a very high price.

Even though Kiven’s surgery has already taken place, and his insurance will cover a portion of his transplant costs, he still faces significant medical expenses related to the surgery. Kiven will continue to need a lifetime of follow-up care and daily anti-rejection medications, which are as critical to his survival as the transplant itself. Kiven lives 480 miles from his transplant center, and he incurs substantial expenses each time he travels for doctor appointments and evaluations. Kiven and Katina had to stay near the hospital during recovery. They will have to remain there for six months to a year, adding to the financial strain.

You can help by making a tax-deductible donation to the National Foundation for Transplants in honor of Kiven.

If you'd prefer to send your gift by mail, please send it to the National Foundation for Transplants, 3249 W. Sarazen’s Circle, Suite 100, Memphis, TN 38125.  Please be sure to write "in honor of Kiven Leday” in the memo line.

Thank you for your generosity!

Transplant Center:  Methodist Specialty and Transplant Hospital

If you have any questions about The National Foundation for Transplants, feel free to contact the staff at 800-489-3863.