Hi everyone,

I’m reaching out today with a story that is deeply personal to me—one of strength, perseverance, and hope. I’m raising funds to help my uncle Kenny, who has been battling a congenital heart condition since the day he was born in 1974.

Uncle Kenny was born with a complex congenital heart defect involving the great vessels—something that would likely be corrected at birth today, but wasn’t possible in the 1970s. He had his first major heart surgery at one years old, beginning a lifelong battle involving 13 cardiac devices and 4 sets of leads. Over time, these leads have fused into his tissue and are now pressing on arteries, causing dangerous blockages. His main artery is now completely closed off, and a heart transplant is his only option for survival.

Doctors once told his mother that he would likely only live to the age of 16. Today, Kenny is 50 years old!!—a true miracle and testament to his strength and will to live! Despite the odds, he’s still with us. Still fighting. Still full of life.

If you know Kenny, you know he’s not one to complain. In fact, throughout this entire journey, he has never let fear define him. He has always faced each new surgery, procedure, and diagnosis with remarkable courage and a positive spirit that lifts everyone around him. Even when his body is weak, his heart—both emotionally and spiritually—remains strong. His love for his family, especially his grandchildren, shines through every single day.

But recently, we’ve learned just how critical his condition has become. Kenny’s main artery in his heart is now completely blocked. In a miraculous turn, his heart has managed to create alternate pathways to keep blood flowing. It’s nothing short of amazing that he’s still alive—but doctors have made it clear: this is not sustainable. The only option left is a heart transplant.

Kenny has been on the heart transplant list at Strong Memorial in Rochester since April 2021, but then sent to Cleveland Clinic in 2024. While this gives us hope, the journey comes with serious financial strain. Because Cleveland is out of town, there are significant out-of-pocket expenses including:

This is why we’re asking for help.

We don’t make this request lightly. We know everyone has their own challenges, but we also believe in the power of community—and in being transparent about what Kenny has endured.

Kenny’s Medical Journey:

We just want to give him a chance to live free from pain and uncertainty. We want him to enjoy holidays without hospital visits, to be present for birthdays and milestones, and to watch his grandchildren grow up.

Your donation will go directly toward emergency transport, travel, lodging, and care-related costs while Kenny awaits his life-saving transplant at Cleveland Clinic.

Please consider donating, sharing this page, and keeping Kenny in your prayers. Every bit of support brings us closer to helping him live the life he deserves.

With love and gratitude,

The Salvaggio Family