Mark Irby

Mark Irby

Transplant Type: Double Lung

Mark Irby is awaiting a new lease on life. In 2019, he was diagnosed with Idiopathic Pulmonary Fibrosis (IPF). He had experienced symptoms for years, and had previously been diagnosed with a wide range of respiratory illnesses including bronchitis, allergies, and pneumonia. There’s no family history of the disease, and the cause is unknown. Doctors say a double-lung transplant is critical to his survival.

During such a difficult time, Mark is thankful for the love and support of his wife of 40 years, Kathy, and their family and friends. Mark and Kathy have two children and five grandchildren, and his illness prevents him from being the active husband, father, and grandfather he longs to be.

Mark enjoys spending time with his family, golfing, and fishing with his kids and grandkids, but his illness limits most of his activities now. He looks forward to receiving a transplant that will save his life and allow him to breathe freely. He wants nothing more than to be healthy so he can enjoy life with his family, be more active, and watch his grandchildren grow up. But right now, he needs your help.

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

Transplant Center: Baptist Integris Hospital