Michael's new chance on life

Michael and Julie Smalley have been on a medical journey like no other.  Michael was diagnosed with Lupus at the age of 18.  Lupus is an autoimmune disease that affects so many people in many drastic ways, that goes unseen to the human eye.  He has fought this cruel disease head on for over 30 years.  He's had 5 joint replacements, open heart surgery, valve replacement and also multiple seizures over the years, that now he doesn't drive.  But through all of this, he's persevered and raised two awesome boys and worked full time at Vanderbilt.  
But now, he has met his match.  Last fall his worst fears were confirmed and he was in kidney failure.  Michael and Julie knew that  one day,  kidney failure would come, but not as fast as it did.  Within months his kidneys  failed, he had surgery to place a port in his stomach and now he does peritoneal dialysis at home for 9 1/2 hours Every Single Night.  This stopped them in their tracks and turned their lives upside down like no other surgery or setback ever had.  
Michael was placed on the Kidney Transplant list at VU and the doctors  counseled them, that it could take 3-5 years before a donor could be found, but sooner if a live donor match was found.  Well, they asked, you, their family and friends,  answered their prayers and over 100 people stepped up to be tested to be his match.  They received the miracle call in early August that there was a match, and low and behold it is right here in their back yard!! Kim Smithson Gawrys has been one of Julie's best friends since 8th grade.  She knew the day she applied and got the first test done, she was the one! And dang it, she is!!!!! Michael's surgery is November 6th!! Election day! We all elect for him to get a new chance at life.
Through all of this, Michael  has worked full time, but now he has had to take a leave of absence from work since August.  Trying to work and  do the dialysis process has taken a  major toll on his body.  Julie will now be taking 1-2 months off also to help him in his recovery and continual trips to VU after he is discharged.  The mounting medical bills and financial burden this has put on their family is immense.  They are private people in this crusade, but after fighting  for his health  for 30 years now,  the financial and emotional burden is staggering.  After much persuasion from friends and family , Michael and Julie  have agreed they could use some help.    They are also hoping to bring awareness about Lupus, kidney disease and especially Organ Donation so that they can help others.