My name is Joseph, and I’m reaching out for support as I recover from a total pancreatectomy with islet transplant. During my surgery, my spleen, a portion of my intestines, and my gallbladder were also removed. Since then, I’ve faced serious complications that have left me unable to work for over a year, and my doctors expect it will be at least another year before I can return. I’ve lost a significant amount of weight and struggle daily with severe fatigue, pain, and weakness. Even simple tasks are nearly impossible, and living alone makes it even more challenging to manage my recovery.


I’m under the care of the transplant team at the University of Minnesota’s transplant clinic, and I have frequent appointments in both Minneapolis and Duluth, which are several hours from my home in Wisconsin. My kids and my mom do what they can to help, but they live far away and have their own responsibilities. I receive SSI, but it doesn’t even cover my rent, let alone utilities, groceries, or the gas I need to get to my appointments. My lifting restrictions and ongoing health issues make it impossible to supplement my income right now.


I’ve been battling the illness that led to my surgery since 2008, and I’m doing everything I can to regain my strength and get back to work. Any help with living expenses and travel costs would make a huge difference, allowing me to focus on healing and getting to the medical care I need. Thank you for considering supporting me during this difficult time.