In early 2015, Rudy Austin was diagnosed with a rare disease of the blood vessels called A.N.C.A. Vasculitis, which causes destruction of his red blood cells. He has undergone extensive medical treatment, including multiple rounds of chemotherapy over several years, multiple emergency blood transfusions, long hospital stays, a procedure to drain fluid compressing his heart, procedures for an aneurysm at his dialysis site and in-patient rehabilitation care. He has been hospitalized for pericardial effusions and bleeding within his lungs, and he has suffered damage to his eyes, ears and vocal cords. He is now in end-stage kidney failure and stage 4 liver failure, both resulting from the disease’s continuing rampage on his organs. He currently undergoes dialysis treatment three days per week. Unfortunately, he is not a candidate for a kidney or liver transplant, and the disease remains active in his weakened body.

Rudy’s wife of over 50 years, Betty, is a former registered nurse and his sole caregiver. She provides him around-the-clock care whether he is in or out of the hospital.

The disease forced Rudy to abandon his long-standing legal practice prematurely. Despite financial support provided by Medicare and his loving children, the financial demands are overwhelming.

Funds raised through this site will be used for medical care, medical-related travel costs, insurance premiums, out-of-pocket expenses, housing and the costs of daily living.

Rudy has been a bastion of integrity and a true role model to his family, many friends and colleagues. Let’s show Rudy and Betty how much we appreciate them and help in their time of need.