**Help Our Friend Gid Beat Liver Disease and Get Back on His Feet**

Darien “Gid” Giddens has been a part of our 30A and South Walton community for as long as most of us can remember. And he’s always seemed to face life’s challenges with a mix of faith, humor, and resilience. But in January 2024, life handed him a challenge that he couldn’t tackle alone. Diagnosed with cirrhosis of the liver, he’s now in a battle to reclaim his health and return to the life he loves.

After spending eight grueling days in the hospital, Gid learned that his liver condition requires ongoing procedures, including abdominal taps every 3 to 6 months, each costing around $3,500. On top of that, a major surgery known as TIPS looms in the near future, with a price tag of approximately $51,000. With no insurance and his savings depleted, he’s facing these costs with nothing but determination and a little humor to keep him going.

Before his health took a turn, Gid had a job and insurance that helped him manage life’s demands. But now, his financial resources are drained. His house has been on the market for over 140 days (one of many attempts to ease these financial strains), and he’s struggling to make ends meet. Asking for help isn’t easy for anyone, but we are reaching out to ask for help now for our dear friend.

He misses the simple joys of working, seeing friends, and living without the constant worry that his liver might fail him.

After finding out about his liver condition, Gid made the courageous decision to get sober, marking six months of sobriety with a quiet announcement on social media. The overwhelming support he received reminded him that he’s not in this fight alone.

Now, he needs all of our help. Every dollar contributed will go directly toward his medical expenses, helping him navigate the long road ahead. He’s profoundly grateful for the support he’s already received and for the trust that friends, family, and kind strangers are placing in him now.

Gid is placing his faith in God, in the goodness of this amazing community, and in the belief that there are better days ahead. He’s determined to get back on his feet and live a life full of hope, health, and happiness.

Thank you for being a part of his journey.