Support Ken's Heart Transplant Recovery

Ken (KP) was diagnosed with congestive heart failure over a decade ago, a condition doctors suspect to be the result of genetics and untreated hypertension. Yet, with the help of medication and through lifestyle changes, he had until recently been able to lead a relatively normal and active life, helping to raise his amazing son (Nathan, now 21!) together with his wife, Laura, while also pursuing the highest levels of education and building a successful business. However, Ken’s health quickly declined over the past several years, eventually weakening him to the point of being virtually bedridden, unable to work or enjoy normal activity. Throughout multiple doctor visits and hospitalizations, his systems continued to shut down as a result of his failing heart, and Ken was eventually hospitalized to receive advanced treatment in August 2024. Despite their best efforts at less drastic solutions, his excellent healthcare team at Emory University Hospital quickly determined that Ken’s best option for survival was a heart transplant.

Ken first received an external heart pump to improve his chances for both immediate survival and the anticipated transplant. Over the next several weeks, his condition stabilized, and Ken was placed on the donor waiting list. Then, in a process that can often take months, Ken miraculously received his new heart — just 30 days after his initial hospitalization. His recovery so far has been amazing, having been released from the hospital just 10 days following surgery. He is now continuing his long recovery with the help of his loving family, including Laura’s mother, Ann Cathey. Throughout the journey thus far, Ken has remained positive and optimistic, fueled by the caring attention from his excellent healthcare providers, and the loving support and prayers of friends and family. Ken, Laura, and Nathan have all expressed that they will be forever grateful for his new heart, the special bonds made during his hospitalization, and the outpouring of support they have already received. Of course, Ken still has a long road ahead, but he remains confident that with such continued support, he will make a full recovery!

Needless to say, the medical bills have been significant, increasing nearly by the day. And while we do not yet know Ken’s total costs, heart transplants rank among the most expensive procedures in 2024, costing upwards of $2 million! Even after insurance, a significant portion will remain the patient’s responsibility — something most of us have experienced, to some extent. Moreover, because of Ken’s declining ability to work over the past several years, including a suspension of all work for much of 2023 and 2024, keeping up with the growing expenses has quickly become overwhelming. Now confronting a recovery that could take up to a year, Ken and his family face increasing financial stress that could jeopardize his already difficult recovery. This GoFundMe campaign is an effort to help relieve some of the burden and the overall stress caused by this traumatic event. Of course, donations of any amount are so appreciated, and while the campaign isn’t necessarily intended for a widespread audience, sharing the link may help to reach others who may know Ken but are outside his immediate circle!

Those of us who know Ken know him to be kind and generous. Friends and family, as well as his many former students, clients, and professional associates, have known they can depend on Ken for his support any time, and he has always been eager to help. Many of us also know that Ken spent many years as an educator at the University of Georgia, where he discovered his love for teaching and working with young people. More recently, as a business consultant, Ken has turned away more lucrative career opportunities, instead choosing to run his own firm helping struggling small businesses achieve their dreams. Although he would hesitate to acknowledge it, this is now Ken’s time of need, and we are hopeful that his friends, family, and the larger community can come together to offer their help!

Thank you so much for taking the time to learn about Ken’s situation and considering offering your support! If you have any questions, please don’t hesitate to get in touch anytime.