Hi, my name is Darcy Smith, and I am raising funds on behalf of the Thomas family. Greg Thomas, a beloved husband, father, friend, football coach and community member has been on a waiting list for the last 4 years and has finally received the kidney he has been waiting for. Anyone who knows Greg, knows that he has worked hard his entire life to support his family. In addition to his own children, Greg has coached, mentored, taught, and most importantly loved hundreds of children who are not his own over the years. He and his wife (and personal cheerleader) have been notably important to many young men being raised primarily by single mothers and those who have struggled with self-confidence. His patience, compassion, and lofty standards are why young adults flourish under his guidance. We all look forward to Coach Greg getting back on the football field next fall so he can continue to impact the lives of young people and positively influence our greater community.

Greg and Toni are private and INCREDIBLY positive people who are more likely to share the happy things going on in their lives, but they have had more than their share of hardships this past year. Greg has had a career in the same industry for over 25 years and his most recent job was eliminated in September of last year. He will be unable to search for employment for months because this is a major surgery that includes a significant amount of time for recovery. Toni will need time off from work to be with him during his hospital stay and recovery. FMLA takes time for approval, its limited in duration, and does not pay a full salary. Meanwhile, medical bills, daily living expenses, housing, and thousands of dollars of anti-rejection meds needed for survival will not wait. It would be impossible for anyone to plan for such an expensive medical emergency. Toni and Greg did not want to ask for financial help, but eventually realized that at this time of their lives it was ok to accept help from the countless people who love them and want to do something to help and give back during this tough time for their family. Any donation will be appreciated by the Thomas family, no matter how small, anything helps. Funds will be used primarily for medications but will help with travel expenses for their immediate family as well as any daily living expenses needed. If you are not able to donate monetarily, emotional support is equally needed and appreciated. You can reach out to their children, cook a meal, or say a prayer for this beautiful family. Happy New Year to all and thank you for your love and support of the Thomas family!