(Editor’s note: The text below is from the National Foundation for Transplants. Kurt Garrett is an SJSU senior majoring in communications studies. Kurt’s brother posted the video on YouTube.)
In 2009, Kurt was diagnosed with primary sclerosing cholangitis (PSC) after experiencing jaundice and losing a great deal of weight. PSC has caused scarring and inflammation in the bile ducts of his liver, and doctors say a liver transplant is critical to his survival. Kurt was added to the transplant waiting list at Stanford Hospital in 2010, and he is in the process of being listed at a second hospital.
Despite his illness, Kurt is extremely active and determined to overcome this health battle. He’s been working toward his bachelor’s degree and was on track to graduate in the spring; however, his declining health has forced him to put his education on hold. He is extremely hard working and still works 30 hours a week in the public relations department for an international electronics company.
When he feels well enough, he loves spending time with his family, friends and girlfriend. After receiving his transplant, Kurt looks forward to enjoying his favorite activities of softball, basketball, snowboarding and wakeboarding. But right now, he needs your help.
A liver transplant costs approximately $575,000. And that’s only the beginning. Even with health coverage, he faces significant expenses related to the surgery. For the rest of his life, Kurt will need follow-up care and daily anti-rejection medications. Post-transplant medications are very costly, and they are as critical to his survival as the transplant itself.
Depending on where he receives his transplant, Kurt may have to travel a long distance from his home, incurring substantial expenses for travel, food and lodging during the recovery process.
You can help.
To make a tax-deductible donation to NFT in honor of Kurt, click here. If you’d prefer to send your gift by mail, please send it to the NFT California Transplant Fund, 5350 Poplar Avenue, Suite 430, Memphis, TN 38119. Please be sure to write “in honor of Kurt Garrett” on the memo line.
Thank you for your generosity!
Patient Health Institute: Stanford Hospital