Donate to Steve's Journey for a New Liver and Health

My brother Steve was diagnosed with iron overload and high ferritin levels in 2014 and was advised to undergo regular phlebotomies to manage the condition. He followed this treatment for ten years, which likely contributed to the development of his liver disease—a condition that went undiagnosed for years. In May 2024, Steve received a devastating diagnosis: End-Stage Liver Disease, also known as decompensated cirrhosis. His doctors informed him that his liver is fully scarred and functioning at only 30% or less. A liver transplant is his only chance at survival.

Since that diagnosis, Steve has made significant lifestyle changes. He has completely transformed his diet, stopped drinking alcohol, and quit vaping. He has followed every recommendation from his Lahey liver team and gone above and beyond their expectations. His doctors are continually impressed by his dedication and positive outlook. Steve fights for his wife and two children, for our father, and for me, his little brother. Most importantly, he fights because he believes that if given a second chance, he will live a life filled with love, happiness, and gratitude.

As of January 1, 2025, Steve’s health insurance deductible has reset, and it must be met again. A liver transplant in the United States costs over $1.1 million. Despite his efforts, he was unable to secure a transplant in 2024. In addition to the transplant itself, Steve requires multiple daily medications to stay alive, including one particularly critical—and expensive—drug. He hasn’t been able to work for over eight months and won’t be able to return to work for the foreseeable future. While doctors focus on keeping him alive, the financial burden of this treatment is overwhelming. If Steve receives a transplant, he will still require ongoing medical care and medications. However, the hope is that he can eventually return to work, helping others as he has always loved to do.

About 75% of the $1.1 million cost for the transplant, medical care, and medication is covered by insurance. However, this doesn’t include the numerous hidden costs of a liver transplant, such as lost income, travel expenses, caregiver support, emotional and psychological care, and post-transplant recovery. We are asking family, friends, and anyone able to help us raise the remaining 25% that insurance won’t cover, along with support for these additional expenses.

Steve has faced incredible challenges but continues to defy expectations. He has prepared his body for the transplant in just six months—a process that typically takes one to two years—thanks to sheer determination and the support of his wife and children. His doctors are amazed by his progress, which places him in the top 98% of readiness they’ve seen. However, there is one more hurdle to overcome: Steve has some heart blockages that must be addressed to ensure his body is in the best possible shape when a liver becomes available.

Your donation will help ease the financial burden and allow Steve to focus entirely on his fight for survival. If you are unable to donate, please share this message far and wide. With your support, we can help Steve get the second chance he so desperately needs. Thank you for standing with us.