Hello, my name is Dave Tatum, and I recently suffered a sudden, near-fatal heart attack. The heart attack was so severe that I am now in a state of heart failure. The daily intravenous drug and life vest are helping to keep me alive. I am in need of a heart transplant. I am beginning the process of being evaluated to determine if I am a viable candidate.

I am now disabled and not able to work. My teaching career of 28 years ended abruptly. I am hoping to return to teaching in some capacity in the future. Teaching students has always been my passion and my mission.

Currently, I am in need of financial support to help offset the expensive medical costs associated with being a heart failure patient. The specialized treatment and care that is necessary to keep me alive is extremely expensive.

I appreciate any support and help that you could provide for me during this difficult time.