Support Jo's Critical Transplant Journey

Dear Family, Friends, and Kind Strangers,

Thank you from the bottom of our hearts for your prayers, positive thoughts, and unwavering support for my sister, Jo. These past few months have been incredibly difficult as she has battled critical health challenges and unimaginable pain. Yet, through it all, she has remained courageous, hopeful, and determined to find answers.

In mid-December, Jo was found unconscious in her home. Since then, she has endured multiple emergency room visits, hospital stays, and extensive testing. Ultimately, she was diagnosed with advanced liver failure, which has led to a series of severe complications. One of the most difficult is fluid buildup in her right lung, requiring her to undergo thoracentesis procedures three to four times a week—each time removing two liters of fluid. Her medical team has never seen a case this extreme. This condition affects her ability to breathe and sleep, making daily life a struggle. In addition, Jo experiences debilitating spasms in her feet, legs, hips, and hands, often lasting over thirty minutes — pain that, heartbreakingly, cannot be relieved by medication. Her fatigue has progressed to the point where even walking short distances in her home is a challenge.

Despite these overwhelming obstacles, Jo’s spirit remains incredibly strong.

Last week, she was evaluated at the Mayo Clinic in Phoenix, where doctors confirmed that her liver failure has also led to advanced kidney failure. The only hope for survival is a dual liver and kidney transplant. Due to her fragile condition, doctors have determined it is no longer safe for her to travel. She must remain in Phoenix under their care until donor organs become available. Given her high MELD score, her medical team is hopeful that transplants will happen within the next two to three months. Following surgery, Jo will need to stay in Phoenix for her initial recovery before returning home for further healing.

Since December 18, Jo has been unable to work, and as you can imagine, the financial strain is growing. Expenses include:

To help ease the financial burden, we are humbly asking for support. Every donation, no matter the amount, makes a meaningful difference. If you’re unable to give, or have already done so, sharing Jo’s story would also be a tremendous help in spreading awareness.

Thank you for standing with Jo and me during this difficult time. Your kindness, generosity, and prayers mean more than words can express.

With deepest gratitude,

Judy Kent

Our Phoenix mailing address is:

Jo or Judy Kent #3L

c/o Village at Mayo Clinic

5811 E Mayo Blvd

Phoenix AZ 85054