💙 Please Help Francisco Protect His Transplanted Kidney and Restore His Health

Goal: $28,000

Hello, my name is Francisco Estrabao, and today I am sharing one of the hardest things I’ve ever had to put into words. I’m 52 years old, and for the first time in my life, I am asking for help—not out of weakness, but out of a deep desire to keep living, to stay healthy, and to protect the kidney that gave me a second chance at life.

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My Journey of Survival

On May 1, 2010, I received a kidney transplant—a moment that felt like a miracle. That gift allowed me to keep living, to keep dreaming, and to be here for the people I love. I have carried immense gratitude ever since.

But what many don’t see is the lifelong battle that comes after a transplant. The anti-rejection medications that protect my kidney also came with a heavy price: years of steady weight gain that I could not control. Today, I weigh 314 lbs, and despite trying diets, exercise plans, weight-loss medications and everything within my power, my weight continues to threaten my health and the kidney that saved me.

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Where I Am Now

My doctors now tell me that bariatric surgery is not optional anymore—it’s necessary. It’s the safest and most effective way to protect my transplanted kidney, improve my health, and prevent future complications.

The truth is, I am scared. Scared of what could happen if I don’t take action. Scared of losing the organ I fought so hard to keep. Scared that my body won’t hold up if I continue down this path.

And that fear is what brought me here—reaching out, hoping for support, believing that kindness and community still exist.

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Why I Need Support

My insurance only covers a portion of the surgery, leaving me with a cost I simply cannot cover on my own. The total remaining expenses include:

• Hospital and surgeon fees
• Pre-op lab work and medical clearances
• Anesthesia
• Post-op care
• Vitamins, supplements, and nutrition counseling

The estimated cost is $28,000.

To some, it’s just a number.

To me, it’s the difference between declining health and a new chapter of life.

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What This Surgery Means to Me

This surgery represents hope.

Hope to protect my kidney.

Hope to move without pain.

Hope to live longer, healthier, and more fully.

Hope to finally break free from something I’ve been fighting for more than a decade.

I want to wake up with energy again.

I want to walk without losing my breath.

I want to live without fear of what could happen next.

I want to keep my miracle—to keep the gift I was given in 2010.

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How You Can Make a Difference

If you can donate, even a small amount, please know you are helping me fight for my life and my future.

If you can’t donate, just sharing this story is a blessing.

Thank you for reading this, for caring, and for standing with me during one of the most vulnerable moments of my life.

With all my heart,

Francisco Estrabao