Hello, my name is Tanya Cross, and I’m reaching out on behalf of my best friend and husband Jose Garcia. On October 23, 2025, he received the greatest gift anyone could ask for — a life-saving kidney transplant from a generous deceased donor. After four and a half years on dialysis and waiting on the transplant list, that call finally came, and our lives changed forever.

Those years leading up to the transplant were not easy. There were countless hospital visits, treatments, and difficult days, but we never gave up hope. We held on, stayed strong, and kept believing that his time would come. The surgery was a success, and we are now focused on recovery and building his strength back day by day.

Even with this incredible new beginning, the road ahead still comes with challenges. The costs of surgical care, the hospital stay, weekly changes in medications, follow-up appointments, travel to and from the transplant center twice a week (1 ½ hours each way), and time off work have added up quickly. In addition to myself, as part of his post-transplant recovery plan, the medical team requires that he have 24-hour caregiver support to ensure his safety, medication management, and monitoring for any complications.

With a humble heart, we’ve created this GoFundMe to ask for a little help as we continue this new chapter of life. While I’ve been doing everything I can to stay strong and maintain hope, the medical expenses, treatment costs, and ongoing care have become overwhelming. This fundraiser is a lifeline that will help cover the critical costs associated with the transplant.

Any contribution, no matter the amount, brings him one step closer to recovery and gives him a chance at a healthier, more stable future, and will go directly toward covering costs to make sure his new kidney stays healthy. We know times are tough; if you are unable to donate even sharing this post will help.

I’m grateful beyond words for the donor who gave us this second chance, for the doctors and nurses, and for every person who has supported us through this journey. This experience has taught us that strength isn’t about never falling its about getting back up every single time.

Below is a breakdown of our costs and recovery time averages 4-6 months.

• Transplant Cost $8,400

• Post Transplant Medical Appointment Copays $840

• Post Transplant Medications $10,000-$14,000 (per year, rest of life)

• Transportation Costs $798

• Caregiver, Private Nurses, Home Health $1,400

Thank you for taking the time to read my story, for sharing it, and for supporting us in any way you can. Your kindness truly means the world.