Hello, my name is Carrie Bolfert, and I’m reaching out to share my brother CJ and his family’s story—because they need our help.

A few years ago, CJ was diagnosed with a rare type of vasculitis that severely impacted his kidney function. While his incredible team of doctors has helped manage the disease, the reality is that by the time kidney disease shows symptoms, the damage is already done. CJ is now in end-stage renal failure and urgently seeking a kidney donation.

Despite everything, CJ and his family have faced these challenges with incredible strength and quiet resilience. But now, they are reaching out to the community for support—and the response has already been filled with love.

This disease has put CJ through countless surgeries, hospital visits, and exhausting dialysis treatments, leaving him unable to work. His wife, Bri, has done everything she can to keep their family afloat, but she has also faced her own unimaginable struggles. In June 2023, Bri suffered a devastating accident that required a Flight for Life to Marshfield, WI, resulting in the loss of one of her fingers. She has since undergone physical therapy, numerous doctor visits, and time off work to recover, adding even more challenges to their lives.

Most recently, in February 2025, after years of unexplained symptoms, Bri was diagnosed with Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome—a connective tissue disorder that causes her joints to dislocate and her ligaments to be extremely loose. During this process, doctors also discovered a meningioma at the base of her skull, a tumor they believe is benign. However, this has added even more uncertainty, as she will need ongoing monitoring over the coming months to determine if surgery is necessary.

Between medical expenses, lost income, and the five-hour trips to Mayo Clinic in Rochester, MN, for CJ’s care, the financial strain has become overwhelming. They need help covering travel costs, lodging, food, and the many unexpected expenses that come with their medical battles.

I’m asking our amazing community to rally around them in this time of need. Any donation, big or small, will make a difference. If you are unable to give monetarily, you can still help by sharing this GoFundMe page, scanning the QR code for donation information, or spreading CJ’s search for a kidney donor through social media.

Thank you for taking the time to read their story—and for any support you can give.