Russell Jalbert
A nonprofit fundraiser supporting
National Foundation for Transplants, Inc.I want to live longer so I may continue to enjoy life, my friends, and my families.
$17,860
raised by 74 people
$45,000 goal
Update #11
5/1/2023 TTFN
I can’t believe that my transplants were over six months ago. But, it’s May Day, in the season of renewal, and I’m embracing my new life and lungs. It’s an amazing relief to again feel positive and hopeful. Almost four years since I have felt even close to normal…and it feels soooo good.
Six weeks ago, I rounded a corner and got a bump in stamina and motivation. Which is good, because my Honey-Do list just kept growing and growing during those years. I’ve been tackling these many deferred tasks…and it’s a wonderful thing!
I know I have been extremely, extremely lucky. From being sick enough AND well enough to be a lung transplant candidate; the amazingly short wait time on the organ donor waiting list; the quick release from the hospital; my successes at recovery; and of course, the amazing support of family, friends, and co-workers. All have combined to make me feel blessed.
At present, my transplant status is maintenance and three follow-ups. Two weeks ago, was my six month’s test and the transplant Team all said I was doing “fantastic”. I want to personally thank you for your support, prayers, and encouragement; without it, I’d likely not have survived this well (or at all). You’ve really have given me the gift of continuing life. I cannot properly express how deeply appreciative I am for you.
I will be shutting down this webpage in May and my National Foundation for Transplant’s funds have all been spent on housing, travel, and medications.
Thank you so much for following my journey and I encourage you to continue your own fights and wish you all the success!
Many, many, many, many thanks,
e: russelldjalbert@gmail.com
c: (910) 465-7890
Russell Jalbert
Transplant Type: Double Lung
What if you were living on borrowed time?
Russell Jalbert is fighting for his life. In 2018, he developed a bad hacking cough. Russell assumed the cough was due to mold that covered his belongings that had been damaged due to flooding after hurricane Florence hit North Carolina. He was referred to a pulmonologist who diagnosed him with idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF). After a year of treatment, Russell went to Duke Medical Center for a second opinion. Unfortunately, his diagnosis was confirmed, and now doctors say a double lung transplant is critical. While awaiting his transplant, Russell must rely on an oxygen tank to breathe.
During such a challenging time, Russell is thankful for his wife, Bekke, their family, and friends. He wishes they did not have to be so concerned about his health, but he is grateful for their love and support. Before his health began to decline, Russell was a vigorous and energetic man who loved being outdoors and active, but these days, his activities are very limited. He looks forward to being well enough to be free of the constant coughing and the oxygen hoses so that he may enjoy life again. Russell wants nothing more than to spend more time with his family, but right now, he needs your help.
Unfortunately, Russell’s hope for a new life comes at a very high price.
The average double lung transplant costs more than $1 million. And that is 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 are as critical to his survival as the transplant itself.
Russell lives 150 miles from the Duke Hospital transplant center, and he incurs substantial expenses each time he visits for evaluations and doctors’ appointments. When he receives his transplant, Russell and Rebecca will need to stay near the hospital, during recovery, for four to six months, adding to the financial strain.
You can help by making a tax-deductible donation to the National Foundation for Transplants in honor of Russell.
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 Russell Jalbert” in the memo line.
Thank you for your generosity!
Transplant Center: Duke University Hospital
If you have any questions about The National Foundation for Transplants, feel free to contact the staff at 800-489-3863.