About Zac Johnson
Born two months premature on July 2, 2006 (along with twin brother Aidan), and weighing only 2lbs, 10oz, Zachary was diagnosed with necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC). NEC is a very devastating disease which invades parts of the infant's intestines and effectively kills the bowel tissue. Since Zac's intestines were not able to absorb food, he was sustained by continuous IV fluids. Even though these fluids are life saving, they can also damage the liver if used over a long period. In August of 2007, Zac went into shock from liver failure, and it was determined that he needed a double-organ transplant (liver and small bowel).
He was flown to the Children's Hospital of Pittsburgh to wait for viable organs. In order to be with Zac, Brian and Deanna had to leave their home behind and put their lives on hold while they waited. And waited. Each passing day was met with more apprehension as Zac fought off infection after infection with a resilience that left everyone in awe. After 8 grueling months, their prayers were finally answered, and on April 24th, 2008, Zac received a new liver, small bowel, stomach and pancreas. As he recovers from surgery, Brian and Deanna find themselves waiting once again, but this time, each passing day brings more hope and more smiles.
On August 28, 2008, Zac was transferred to The Children's Home of Pittsburgh and Lemieux Family Center for his final 7 1/2 weeks of recuperation before returning to his home in Severna Park, MD. Click here for a story and video from the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette about that transition.
(For Zac's full story, click here.)
With the cost of a transplant often exceeding $500,000, many transplant patients are unable to shoulder the financial burden of such a procedure. The Children’s Organ Transplant Association (COTA) is a national charity dedicated to organizing and guiding communities in raising funds for transplant-needy patients. In Severna Park, MD, volunteers have begun a fund-raising campaign for Zac. These funds will be used for medical, living and travel expenses not covered by insurance. 100% of all donations are used for these transplant-related expenses – COTA does not deduct any administrative costs.
Ways to Donate:
COTA, 2501 COTA Drive, Bloomington, IN 47403
Read an article from The Capital about Zac and our fundraising efforts
Thanks to all who have helped us get this far!
As of June 17, 2008, over $100,000 has been raised
through the generous support of many! - click here to see more:
