Nick and Cleo Malmin

Hi my name is Maxine and I am fundraising for my brother in law and sister, Nick and Cleo Malmin.

On June 23, 2012 my brother in law received a heart transplant after being on a ventricular assist device for 1.5 years. Nick developed congestive heart failure in his late 20’s, likely from an unknown genetic predisposition. Our family was so thankful for the phone call that day and we have been so grateful for the quality of life given to Nick over the last 10+ years. One person lost their life but because he was an organ donor, Nick’s life was saved and we fully realize and appreciate the life that was lost.

Within the last year, Nick began having some health issues and was diagnosed with PTLD (post transplant Lymphoproliferative disease) which is a form of cancer caused by the immunosuppressive drug (which prevents rejection) he was on. For the treatment of the cancer, they had to take Nick off the immunosuppressive drug so his body would respond to the treatment. The rejection then damaged the heart muscles causing them to become stiff. His heart is now struggling to keep up with the excess fluid his body cannot process due to medication induced kidney disease.

Nick has been hospitalized more often over the last year and has been closely monitored remotely by his doctors. Earlier this year Nick suffered a small heart attack and since then his condition has worsened and he recently spent 2 1/2 weeks in the hospital. Nick now needs a new heart and a kidney. While Nick was in the hospital they began the organ transplant tests and evaluations and he will soon be put on the transplant list and will be needing to take time off work for weekly clinic visits in Madison. It is not easy to admit or ask for help but after talking it out, Nick and Cleo agreed to me putting a GoFundMe together to help raise funds to provide them some financial relief while they are catching up financially from Nick being off work and the additional costs of gas with more travel up to Madison. Your donations will help Nick and Cleo get caught up with their rent, car payments, cost of living for themselves and their teenage son, and travel costs and any financial burden from missed work due to appointments.

Nick is one of the most positive and kind individuals you might have the pleasure of meeting. He has the most genuine demeanor, is always there for his family and will help any person in need if he can. Thank you for considering your donation to support my sister and Nick.