Raising Hope for Richard

Face transplant recipient now needs life saving kidney transplant.  This is a fund raiser to help with medical, medication, and household expenses for Richard Norris.  He received one of the worlds’ most extensive face transplants at the University of Maryland Medical Center in 2012.  Now, this inspiring, magnanimous, and selfless man lives his life to help others. Unfortunately, the medications he is required to take to prevent rejection of the face transplant come with their own dangers. They lower his immune system which increases his chances of developing cancer and impedes the ability to fight off infections, as well as other severe side effects. One is called acute tacrolimus nephrotoxicity. It has caused severe damage to his kidneys and he is in stage 5 renal failure, and now in need of a life or death kidney transplant.  He is currently receiving Procrit injection therapy (commonly used for cancer patients) and has received blood transfusions because his kidneys fail to produce the EPO hormone.  Richard’s two siblings and his girlfriend have been tested to be his kidney donor, but have been ruled out as a match. He is currently on two kidney transplant waiting lists with the University of Maryland Medical Center in Baltimore, and also in the state of Louisiana.  He will need eight weeks of post-op care after the transplant. If the surgery is done in Maryland, he will need to reside there until released by his transplant team. The cost of housing, travel, and other expenses that will arise during the transplant and recovery are very overwhelming to Richard.  He is unable to work because of his failing health, and he knows that he could possibly lose his home and/or not be able to afford the expenses related to this life saving surgery. Why does Richard deserve your help?   Because he has helped countless others by volunteering for the United States Department of Defense and Naval Office of Research program. This program uses Richards’ medical data to help soldiers who suffer facial injuries sustained on the battlefield. This data also helps doctors to develop a way lower the chances of transplant rejection. Many of these tests are VERY painful and time-consuming, but Richard never objects or complains because he knows this data will be used to help others.  Richard also counsels prospective transplant patients and their families.  He is there for them 24/7 if they just need to talk or if they have questions.  Richard also helps the organization “Donate Life” to promote organ, eye, and tissue donations by being their guest speaker at various events and fund raisers.  We are trying to raise funds to help Richard get through this very difficult time.  He hopes to continue his volunteering after the transplant and recovery, and he wishes to continue giving others the gift of HOPE.  Any amount is greatly appreciated, and so are your thoughts and prayers.  Thank You and God bless you!

If you would like to learn more about Richards face transplant go to  https://youtu.be/JtyvEWYCDks  If you would like to register to be a organ donor eye or tissue domor or become a living donor go to https://www.donatelife.net/