My mom, Nancy Bleuer, is a preschool teacher in Mason City, Iowa. In the fall, she learned that the father of one of her students was undergoing dialysis and needed a kidney donor. She volunteered to be tested. The initial bloodwork was a match and she began the long process of medical tests to see if a transplant was viable. The final evaluations were successfully completed and, in just two weeks, my mom will be donating a kidney.


We could not be more proud of her for making this sacrifice and giving a four-year-old boy a chance to grow up with a healthy dad.


My mom's medical expenses for the transplant are covered by the recipient's insurance but for six weeks, while recovering from surgery, my mom will be in recovery and unable to work. Disability insurance covers a portion of her salary but we want to ensure her quick, full recovery without the stress of a reduced budget.


Those of you who know my mom know that she is not a big spender but for these six weeks, I want to make sure she doesn't skimp on the comfort necessary for a full recovery. Your contribution to this effort is greatly appreciated.