Dale Shaylor

Dale Shaylor 

We are thrilled to report that Dale received his lifesaving transplant on June 14, 2011 and is recovering well! 

Dale grew up in the remote parts of the Amazon in Venezuela, where his parents were missionaries. When he was only 13, Dale and his family were shocked when he was diagnosed with hepatitis B and D, which he had contracted while living in the jungle. He lost both his grandfather and aunt after they also contracted hepatitis from their time in the Amazon. 

His condition has worsened to cirrhosis, requiring his family to return to the U.S. for medical care. Doctors said a liver transplant was his only hope for a second chance at life. Dale and his wife, Katie, have three children: Joel, Amber and Jemual. He enjoys reading, taking bike rides with Katie and spending time with their children. He loves his job as a bush pilot in Venezuela, but Dale's illness has prevented him from working or participating in many activities. 

Although he has gone through many challenges, Dale relies heavily on his faith to guide him through life's obstacles. He is eager to return to his normal life, spend more time with his family and exercise. More than anything, he longs for the day he will be able to continue sharing his faith with others in Venezuela. But he needs your help. 

A liver transplant costs approximately $500,000. And that's only the beginning. Even with health coverage, Dale faces considerable expenses related to his transplant. For the rest of his life, he will need follow-up care and daily anti-rejection medications. The medications alone can range from $2,000 to $5,000 per month--and they are as critical to his survival as the transplant itself. 

His dedicated volunteers and supporters have worked extremely hard and have raised nearly $280,000. Their goal is to raise $300,000 by the end of June. Dale's insurance requires him to return to South America after living in the U.S. for six months; if he fails to return, he will lose all coverage. 

His declining health prevents him from working, adding to his financial strain. To make a donation to NFT in honor of Dale, click the Donate button. If you'd prefer to send your gift by mail, please send it to the NFT Florida Liver Fund, 3249 W. Sarazens Cir, Ste 100, Memphis, TN 38125. 

Please be sure to write "in honor of Dale Shaylor" on the memo line. Thank you for your generosity!