Robby Heckman is a 49-year-old man from Crawford, NE where he lives with and cares for his visually impaired mother. Robby has been pushing through mental health challenges and worked hard to get himself through college and carry on a normal life. He lived an active and vibrant life until 2008 when he was diagnosed with lymphoedema. He continued to be as active as possible until his declining health resulted in crippling leg problems that limited his mobility. Though never a drinker he was diagnosed with liver disease in 2016 which has now progressed to stage 4 liver failure.

 

In need of a liver transplant, he went in for the required tests to get on the donor recipient list. It was during these tests that he discovered that his long fight with liver disease had caused damage to other organs. This has resulted in an enlarged heart, and his kidneys are showing signs of damage. Specialist appointments to address the various problems were 3 months out, and while waiting, his body started to fail. Pulmonary hypertension caused his heart to continue to weaken, and he started retaining fluids at an alarming rate. This has resulted in his lungs being unable to properly oxygenate his blood. This is creating a cycle of worsening symptoms and complications.

 

Robby is still waiting for treatment. He lives in a rural area, and the doctors have said they lack the facilities or experience to help him. They told him his only hope is to go to the University of Nebraska Medical Center in Omaha, across the state, and find the care he needs there. He is on disability, and we are trying to raise the funds to travel, a place to stay while there, and pay for the medical costs and equipment not covered by Medicaid. These funds will also help provide for his aged, visually impaired mother who isn't able to travel with him.

 

Please help this good man to live. Even with his own troubles he supports and uplifts those around him, despite the agony, the exhaustion, and the distress of his condition. He is a son, a brother, a father, and a loved one. Please give, if you can, any little bit helps.