* Please hit become supporter to view all updates * If you know Thomas Hafner, you know him as a loving, hardworking husband, father, and “Papa” who brings joy, laughter, and kindness to everyone he meets. Now, our family is rallying around him as he faces the fight of his life. In 2021, Dad was diagnosed with Chronic Kidney Disease stage 3. Despite his strength and resilience, his condition has now progressed to end-stage renal disease. He currently undergoes dialysis three times each week just to stay alive. Dialysis has taken a toll, but the only real cure is a life-saving kidney transplant. Tom needs a compatible living donor to move forward. Finding someone willing and medically able to donate is not easy but we know there are incredible, generous people out there who can help save his life. If you’d like to learn more about becoming a living donor, please visit Johns Hopkins Living Donor Program. https://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/transplant/programs/kidney/living-donors Why We’re Fundraising A transplant isn’t just about surgery. It brings with it enormous challenges, especially financial ones. Insurance only covers part of the costs. Our family needs support to help cover: • Out-of-pocket medical bills • 20–25 new transplant medications Dad will need to take for the rest of his life • Transportation and parking for hospital visits at Johns Hopkins in Baltimore, MD • Three months of lost wages for caregivers who will provide round-the-clock care for at least 8 weeks • Coordinating meals and transportation for Dad’s weekly post-op appointments and Blood work, since family members may have other obligations that limit their availability. Thomas's household consists of four other adults, his elderly parents, his brother who lives with schizophrenia, and his wife. Each family member is doing their best, but everyone lives on a limited, supplemental income, and the caregiving responsibilities are far greater than what our household can manage alone. That’s why we are reaching out to our extended community. How You Can Help 1. Donate — Every contribution, big or small, helps relieve the burden so Dad can focus on his rest and healing. 2. Share — Please spread this page with friends, family, coworkers, and social media. The more people who see it, the closer we get to finding the right donor and the support needed. 3. Consider Living Donation — If you or someone you know is O+ and interested in learning more, please visit the Johns Hopkins Living Donor Program. 4. Offer Meals or Rides — Helping provide a meal or transportation to weekly appointments will go a long way in easing the strain on his caregivers. Our Gratitude My Dad has always been someone who gives more than he takes. Now, it is our turn to give back. We are overwhelmed by the love, prayers, and support already surrounding him. With your help, we can give our Dad, Husband, and Papa the ultimate gift — the gift of life. Thank you from the bottom of our hearts for standing with us on this journey.