Scott Smith

Scott Smith

Transplant Type:   Kidney

What if you were living on borrowed time? 

Scott Smith is awaiting a new lease on life. In 2018, he was diagnosed with stage three chronic kidney disease. This came as a surprise to Scott as he does not have a family history of kidney issues. Unfortunately, he has now progressed to stage four. Doctors say a kidney transplant is critical for his health. 

Scott’s greatest joy is spending time with his wife, kids, and granddaughter. He enjoys being outdoors, gaming with his kids, spending quality time with his wife, and playing with his granddaughter. He also enjoys playing cards with his in-laws and fishing with his father-in-law. He has just started attending some Comic-Cons with some of his kids and it’s always a good time.

During such a challenging time, Scott is thankful for the love and support of his wife of 28 years, Melanie, and their family and friends. While it has been very hard for Scott and Melanie, these circumstances have also brought them closer together, strengthened their trust in one another, and given them perspective on what matters most in life. Scott looks forward to the kidney transplant that will allow him to live his life fully again. More than anything, he would like to continue making memories with his loved ones, but right now, he needs your help.

Unfortunately, Scott’s hope for a new life comes at a very high price.

The average kidney transplant costs approximately $442,500. 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.

Scott must travel more than 40 miles to reach his transplant center for evaluations and doctors’ appointments. When he receives his transplant, Scott and his caregiver will need to stay near the hospital during recovery, incurring substantial expenses for travel, food, and lodging, adding to the financial strain.

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

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 Scott Smith” in the memo line.

Thank you for your generosity!

Transplant Center:   Trinity Health St. Mary's Grand Rapids

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