If you know Chris Bogdan, you know he’s the kind of person who makes a lasting impression. He has a huge heart, gives without hesitation, and is a great friend to so many people. He’s also our “human google”—the guy who somehow knows the answer to every question. Whether you’re talking sports (Go Bills!), work, or some random topic that comes up in conversation, Chris has something to add, and you usually walk away having learned a thing or two. Chris is a dad, a husband, a coach, a huge Buffalo Bills fan, a great friend, and a familiar face in the Amherst community. He helps run his family’s business, Amherst Stainless Fabrication, and his kids play sports throughout WNY. He even dedicates his time to serve on the board of Ransom Oaks, the community he lives in. Between his family, coaching, servicing his community, and work, he spends much of his time showing up for and supporting others.

For more than a year, Chris has been fighting a metabolic liver disorder. He is one of the toughest guys you’ll ever meet, but this fight has brought him to the point of needing a liver transplant to save his life. After spending three weeks at Millard Fillmore Hospital, Chris was transported by ambulance to Cleveland Clinic. He underwent extensive testing and evaluation, and passed the tests with flying colors. With his condition becoming urgent, Chris was given high priority—and now, the news everyone has been hoping for has arrived. A liver is available, and Chris is on his way to receive his transplant.

This is an incredibly hopeful moment for Chris and his family, but surgery is only the beginning of his recovery. Following his transplant, Chris will need to stay near Cleveland Clinic for six weeks for ongoing testing, treatments, and close monitoring. That means paying for temporary housing away from home while the family continues to manage their regular household bills. On top of housing, there will be travel, meals, time away from work, and the everyday costs of supporting him through recovery. We are raising money to help cover that six-week stay and ease the financial pressure on Chris and his family. Having a place close to the clinic is mandated and will allow him to get the care he needs and have family nearby to help him through it. We want them to be able to focus on his recovery without the added worry of how to afford those weeks away from home. The holidays are around the corner, and any support you can provide will be greatly appreciated. Chris has always been generous with his time, his knowledge, and his heart. This is an opportunity for the people who know him—and anyone moved by his story—to show up for him.

He isn't the type to want the attention or the financial help, but so many people have reached out and wanted to help in any way they can that this was the best way to organize the efforts. Please consider making a donation to help with Chris’s recovery housing and support his family during the weeks and holidays ahead. Any amount will help. If you’re unable to donate, sharing this fundraiser is another meaningful way to support them.

Thank you for your generosity, your encouragement, and for keeping Chris and his family in your thoughts and prayers as he takes this next step.