Ben Haag's Kidney Treatment

On behalf of Ben, we are fundraising for his much-needed emergency kidney treatment. The emotional burden of such a life-changing treatment, including daily dialysis & multiple blood transfusions, is more than enough to deal with and we would love to organize a way to ease the financial burden.

The need for this intensive kidney treatment came very unexpectedly and things are moving quickly. We want Ben to be able to focus on preparing for, undergoing, and recovering from these procedures without worrying so much about the large financial strain (insurance covers a lot, but there will still be a large outstanding balance for the abundant procedures & medicines).

We would greatly appreciate any and all, support friends and family are willing to give to help Ben, and his wife, Courtney, through this time.

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UPDATES:

DECEMBER 15TH:

From Ben:

"Hi Y'all! The past few months have been an ongoing medical journey. Since being discharged from the hospital I've been going to dialysis 3 times a week. It was initially hoped that regular dialysis would improve my kidney health & functions, but unfortunately doctors have decided my kidneys are too damaged for that to be a solution.

I will require continued dialysis, and eventually, a kidney transplant.

I am scheduled for a transplant evaluation in January and will share the updates after the appointment.

Huge thanks to everyone for all of the help, love & support.

We truly appreciate it so much."

-Ben

SEPTEMBER 5TH:

In the midst of his 3rd week of out-patient dialysis, Ben's health & well-being continue to be on the rise. He has several doctors appointments on the horizon with hopes of getting a clearer understanding of his long-term wellness. As he recovers, he continues enjoy time with his family & 2 dogs, Oyster & Wilma.

AUGUST 25TH:

After completing his first week of out-patient dialysis, Ben's wellness continues to slowly improve. In the coming days, doctors will be able to assess the impact of dialysis with hopes of establishing a long-term care plan.

AUGUST 21ST:

One week after being admitted to the hospital, Ben attended his first outpatient dialysis treatment near his home in Richmond. He said the staff was very kind & helpful. His blood pressure levels have continued to improve. Ben's overall health & wellness continue to track in a positive direction.

AUGUST 20TH:

After a final assessment from doctors, Ben was discharged and returned home yesterday afternoon. After 6 nights at the hospital, he was beyond excited to get back to his house, his dogs, and some non-hospital gown wardrobe options.

He will immediately begin an array of medications and dietary adjustments, with routine dialysis starting this week.

AUGUST 19TH:

Ben is getting a final assessment from doctors today to make sure his levels & dialysis port are all set then he will be discharged this afternoon.

He'll start with dialysis 3 times a week beginning Monday at a center near his house in Richmond.

The next stage in the journey begins.

AUGUST 18TH:

Ben is currently at St. Mary's Hospital in Richmond, Virginia getting treatment, including daily dialysis and blood pressure management.

After the initial shock of the doctors' assessment this past Monday, August 14th, which included what was thought to be total kidney failure, Ben was admitted to the hospital then transferred to the Intermediate Care Unit, where he presently is, to receive further attention and resources. Ben has fought hard and is responding positively to the dialysis, blood pressure medicine & nutrient supplements.

He is beginning to feel well enough to joke around again and play card games while watching both "Jaws" & "Jaws 2" back-to-back.

We will keep this section up-to-date to help folks track Ben's journey.

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UPDATE: AUGUST 2024 (A Message From Ben)

“ The days drag on and the weeks fly by. Woof”

- Colonel Sanders

Crazy to think it’s been over a year since I was hospitalized and diagnosed with kidney failure.

Since then I have been listed on the Transplant List at VCU and have undergone two surgeries to insure safe and effective dialysis treatment.

I have settled into the routine of my treatment and patiently wait for the call that an organ has been found for me.

I want to express gratitude to my wife, friends, family and the greater community for the continued support during this season of my life.

Much Love,

Ben