Hi, my name is Kristi, and I’m Adam Bast's sister-in-law. I’m starting this fundraiser on behalf of Adam and our family to help him through this life-changing journey.

On April 28, 2025, Adam’s life changed forever. A routine trip home from vacation ended in an emergency room visit, and since then, their world has revolved around hospitals, specialists, and fighting for Adam’s life.

⭐ The Beginning

Around April of this year, Adam became violently ill — nonstop vomiting, pain, and confusion. Tests revealed serious liver complications, and he was instructed to abstain from alcohol completely. Adam quit drinking immediately and committed to his recovery.

Even with medical appointments locally, his condition worsened — his stomach became severely distended, painfully swollen, and his overall health declined.

⭐ Mayo Clinic & The Liver Transplant Diagnosis

A call to the Mayo Clinic changed everything. By July, after three months of sobriety, Adam was diagnosed with stage-four liver failure (cirrhosis). The only path forward was a liver transplant. During one procedure, doctors drained 6.6 liters of fluid from his abdomen — giving him immediate relief and a glimpse of hope. Adam’s strength and determination have been inspiring:

✔ Remained completely sober

✔ Completed a chemical dependency program

✔ Joined AA and found a supportive sponsor

✔ Volunteered to help others while focusing on recovery

⭐ The Highs and Lows of Transplant Preparation

Adam has faced multiple hospitalizations due to hepatic encephalopathy, a liver-related condition causing confusion and severe behavioral changes.

Despite setbacks, Adam’s recent Mayo Clinic visit brought great news:

Initial tests suggested his MELD score was 21, meaning he would not have high priority for a deceased donor liver. This was devastating news for our family.

After further testing, it was confirmed his MELD score is actually 28, putting him on high priority for a liver transplant.

This means that, with the board’s approval, Adam could receive a life-saving transplant within months.

The past week at Mayo has been grueling: multiple blood draws, tests, potassium transfusions (some lasting up to five hours), and meetings with doctors, surgeons, nurses, and a psychiatrist. Adam handled everything with courage, resilience, and even humor.

⭐ Where They Are Now

Adam has done everything asked of him: sobriety, treatment programs, tests, and medical appointments. We are hopeful and optimistic, but the journey is far from over. Travel, lodging, medications, ongoing care, and recovery costs are significant — especially now that Adam is unable to work.

❤️ How You Can Help

Your donation will help cover:

Medical bills not covered by insurance

Transplant evaluation, surgery, and recovery costs

Travel and lodging for Mayo Clinic visits

Medication and follow-up care

Living expenses for Toni and Adam while they both focus on recovery, allowing Toni to help care for him.

Even a small donation makes a huge difference. If you cannot donate, sharing this fundraiser with friends and family would mean the world to us.

Adam is fighting hard — with courage, hope, and determination. We want to give him every chance to live a long, healthy, and happy life.

Thank you for your love, support, and prayers. We appreciate every single one of you.

— Kristi Pitz, Adam’s sister-in-law