Michael Smithwick
A nonprofit fundraiser supporting
National Foundation for Transplants, Inc.$2,825
raised by 18 people
$50,000 goal
8 years left
Mike Smithwick
Transplant Type: Liver
What if you were living on borrowed time?
Mike Smithwick is fighting for his life. In 2013, he was diagnosed with cirrhosis and other related ailments. He was able to manage this condition for some time. Unfortunately, recently has taken a turn for the worse. Now doctors say a liver transplant is critical to his survival.
While this has been a very difficult time for Mike, his family, and friends, it has also brought them closer together, strengthened their trust in the Lord, and given them perspective on what matters most in life. Before his health began to decline, Mike enjoyed bowling and spending time with his family, but these days, his activities are quite limited. Mike looks forward to the transplant that will allow him to live his life with as few limitations as possible. More than anything, he wants the opportunity to make memories with his loved ones but right now, he needs your help.
Unfortunately, Mike’s hope for a new life comes at a very high price.
The average liver transplant costs approximately $878,000. And that is 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 are as critical to his survival as the transplant itself.
Mike lives more than 30 miles from the transplant center, and he incurs substantial expenses each time he visits for evaluations and doctors’ appointments. When he receives his transplant, Mike will need to stay near the hospital during recovery, adding to the financial strain.
You can help by making a tax-deductible donation to the National Foundation for Transplants in honor of Mike.
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 Mike Smithwick” in the memo line.
Thank you for your generosity!
Transplant Center: Integris Baptist Medical Center (Transplant Center)
If you have any questions about The National Foundation for Transplants, feel free to contact the staff at 800-489-3863.