Michael Beard
A nonprofit fundraiser supporting
National Foundation for Transplants, Inc.$5,550
raised by 62 people
$20,000 goal
Michael Beard
Transplant Type: Kidney
Michael Beard is awaiting a new lease on life. He was diagnosed with polycystic kidney disease (PKD). This is a genetic disorder, and his grandmother, aunt, uncle and mother also suffer from PKD. Michael was able to maintain his condition until 2018, when the cysts on his kidneys grew larger than the size of a football, and caused his kidneys to fail. He is now in stage 5 kidney failure, and doctors now say a kidney transplant is necessary. While awaiting his transplant, he endures regular dialysis treatments, which take a toll on his quality of life.
This has been a difficult time for Michael and his wife, Cyndi, as they are not able to be as active as they once were. Before his health began to decline, Michael enjoyed being active with his two doggy-children, Harvey and Penny Lane, spending time with his wife, and volunteering as a DJ of his own radio show, but these days his activities are extremely limited. He looks forward to receiving the transplant that will allow him to live his life with as few limitations as possible, but right now, he needs your help.
Unfortunately, Michael’s hope for a new life comes at a very high price. The average kidney transplant costs approximately $442,000. And that’s only the beginning. Even with health insurance, which will cover the cost of the transplant, 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.
When he receives his transplant, Michael and his caregiver will have to stay near the hospital during recovery, incurring substantial expenses for travel, food and lodging. His declining health forced him to stop working, adding to the financial strain.
You can help by making a tax-deductible donation to NFT in honor of Michael. 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 Michael Beard” in the memo line.
Thank you for your generosity!
Transplant Center: Legacy Good Samaritan Hospital & Medical Center