Dear family, friends, and supporters:

With hearts full of hope and optimism, we embark on a journey to a new kidney for Krista. She is facing a battle that no one should have to fight alone. After years of struggling with kidney disease and trying everything to reverse it, she has been given the opportunity for a new lease on life and is finally officially on the list!! The hope is for Krista to have the transplant before dialysis becomes necessary.  

Most likely, a transplant will happen sooner with a living donor, but… the call from the Mayo Clinic Hospital in Arizona with a kidney for her could happen really any day.  

Despite her family's unwavering love and support, Krista's family members are unable to donate a kidney due to hereditary high blood pressure.

However, there is a beacon of hope shining through this journey: Krista's loving husband, Josh, has stepped forward as a willing donor, ready to give Krista the gift of life. Josh is currently awaiting approval to be a donor and is undergoing the testing process to ensure he is a perfect match for Krista. If, for any reason, Josh is not a direct match, he is also willing to participate in a kidney swap or chain donation to ensure Krista receives the kidney she needs.

This life-changing surgery offers Krista the chance to regain her health and vitality, but it comes with significant financial burdens. As we all know, medical expenses can quickly add up, and the cost of a kidney transplant is no exception. From pre-operative care to life-long post-operative medication and follow-up appointments, the expenses can be overwhelming. In addition to the medical costs, Krista is required to stay near the Mayo Clinic (located 260 miles away from home) for at least 8 weeks post-surgery. If Josh is approved to donate, he will be out of work for 8 weeks. A caregiver is required for both the recipient of a kidney and the donor, so there will be travel and housing expenses for Krista (and Josh) and her caregiver.     

That's why we are launching this fundraiser – to rally around Krista and provide the financial support she needs to undergo this vital procedure. Let's ensure she can focus on healing without the burden of financial stress. Whether you know Krista personally or not, your contribution can make a world of difference. Join us in making this transplant possible for Krista, a truly remarkable individual who deserves every chance at a healthy future. 

Here's how you can help make a difference:

• Donate: Every contribution, no matter the size, brings us closer to our goal. Your donation will directly fund costs associated with Krista's transplant…medications, co-pays, travel to and lodging while in Phoenix. 

• Spread the Word: Share this fundraiser with your friends, family, and social networks. The more people who know about Krista's story, the more potential there is for support. Use the hashtag #AKidney4Krista to spread the word!

• Register as a Donor: If you or someone you know is interested in being tested as a potential donor, please reach out to us at: [email protected]. As we navigate Krista's journey toward a life-changing kidney transplant, we are struck by a profound realization: the critical importance of organ donation. Krista's battle with kidney disease has shed light on the incredible impact that organ donation can have on saving lives and offering hope to those in need. Even if you're not a match for Krista, you could be a match for someone else.

• Send Messages of Encouragement: In addition to financial support, Krista could also use words of encouragement and love. Leave a message on the fundraiser page or send her a personal note to lift her spirits during what will be a challenging, but very necessary, journey.

We know that with the power of community, we can achieve incredible things. Together, we can ensure that Krista receives the care she needs to thrive and hopefully ease the heavy financial burden she and Josh are facing. Your generosity and compassion will make a tangible difference in their lives.

Thank you from the bottom of our hearts for your support, love, and kindness. Let's make this journey to a new kidney a journey filled with hope, strength, and healing.

With love, gratitude and appreciation <3

Krista's family