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John & Zain's Great Kidney Adventure

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What would you do for your friend? Buy them a coffee? Watch their dog over the weekend? Loan them your favorite hoodie? What about donating your kidney? To many of us, donating a kidney might seem like an overwhelming task- but to Zain, it was an obvious way to help his friend John. I'm excited to share this incredible story that shows what true friendship looks like. I hope you'll keep reading to see how you can help!

To start off, my name is Erin. I am the niece of John Viscum and a friend of Zain Gettys. I am writing on behalf of our families and friends to help raise money for the costs associated with Zain & John's Kidney Donation & Transplant Surgeries.

As many of you know, my Uncle John's kidneys have failed him, and he's been on dialysis since early 2022. When the call went out asking friends and family to check if they'd be willing to donate a kidney, Zain quietly got tested, went through all the work, and discovered that he was a match for John in August. Without hesitation, Zain said he would donate his kidney, essentially saving John's life. Zain concocted a surprise to share this news while many of the Viscums were together in Seattle for a wedding. To say that news elevated an already joyous mood that weekend would be an absolute understatement.

Neither of these men are particularly fond of the spotlight. Even the thought of asking for assistance with this process has been difficult for them to agree to. In recent months, as the reality of what they are about to do together sinks in, the financial responsibilities are becoming more apparent. We are raising money to help both guys with any costs associated with these surgeries. Some of you may know that financial needs extend far beyond the mountain of medical bills already piling up. For example, loss of salary from being out of work, household bills, nourishing themselves with healthy food and medications, follow-up doctor visits, etc., can quickly drive people into serious debt without financial help.

It would be easy to stop here and simply ask for help. But there is so much more for you all to know about these goofballs and their extraordinary friendship that might make you realize how incredible this situation is. Let us give you a little backstory on their friendship:

Zain and John met while working at Harrah's Casino as poker dealers in Joliet. They became fast friends: going to trivia nights, going to dinner, Cubs games, and even hanging out with Zain's son, Cash and being overall goofballs. Anyone who saw these two together know what a bond they have. I challenge you to find someone who doesn't laugh with Zain & John's infectious smiles and laughs.
In 2016, Zain suffered the unbelievable loss of his 4-year-old son, Cash. Zain has consistently said that John was such a support for him during this devastating time- being a person he could lean on, and more importantly, still laugh with despite the heartbreak.

John and Zain are also travel buddies, traveling to Italy, Egypt and Greece during an Epic 2018 vacation. These two also had a Tornado Chasing Vacation planned for spring 2020, but we know what happened that year! The hope is to have many more opportunities to travel in the future when everyone is healthy! Zain continues to be friends of the family, having met many of John's brothers and sisters and nieces and nephews. Zain's band even played at a few parties at my house!

The guys looked at the calendar and decided that 11.11.22 looked like a lucky date- so that's the date the surgery is scheduled for. Fortunately for their friends and families, these two peas in a pod continue to make jokes about the organ donation process. I can't think of a better match than these two to be in the hospital together. They'll likely be making jokes & smiling until the anesthesia kicks in... All I know is someone better be recording video when they come out of surgery- I'm certain the conversations will be priceless. Someone also better tip those nurses. Haha!

I could go on and on about this incredible story of friendship, selflessness and kindness- we will update you along the way, so you know even more about who you're donating to.

I will leave you all with these little bits:

My uncle John has the best sense of humor, is a trivia genius, loves watching movies, and playing games . As the youngest of the seven Viscum siblings, he loves and cares about his family more than anything. John owned the bar, Garnsey III, in Joliet for years; as a bar owner, he made many people happy and was able to employ many of his nieces and nephews, too!

Zain is an incredible musician, playing guitar in his band "The Raging Casuals" and teaching guitar lessons. Zain is a vocal advocate for Sepsis Awareness, never wanting anyone to forget about his son, Cash. Zain consistently posts on Facebook about hoping that he is making Cash proud. I think this seals the deal, Zain. I can't imagine a more selfless, kind thing that you are doing for my uncle, and we know Cash couldn't be prouder, and my family can never thank you enough for all you are doing.


Me-John- John's sister, Kathi- and Zain in Egypt 2018

Kathi- John- Zain- Erin in Rome 2018

Zain & John- Escape Room Smarties

John & Zain in the Vatican- Rome, 2018

Zain & John Hot Tubbin in Santorini, Greece 2018

Zain & John at the base of the Pyramids of Giza, Egypt 2018

Me- John- Zain- Kathi Riding Camels in Egypt 2018

Zain & John Cubbies fans forever!

John & Zain being goofballs riding animals in the mall.









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    Organizer

    Erin Sauer
    Organizer
    Joliet, IL

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