A NEWSLETTER OF GIFT OF LIFE TRANSPLANT HOUSE

FALL WINTER 2018-2019 gift of life

GIFT OF LIFE TRANSPLANT HOUSE A HOME THAT HELPS AND HEALS

SAYING GOODBYE TO ‘WORLD CLASS’ KIDNEYS The increase in size and s a young man, Gene Okun had watched other complications of PKD his father’s health slowly deteriorate while challenged the normalcy of on dialysis to treat his Polycystic Kidney his independence. Gene Disease (PKD). So when Gene was diagnosed with was a professional body A builder and passionate about exercise, but found the the same disease he was determined to find another solution. Gene and his sister, Tina, began doing symptoms and increased size of his kidneys prevented research that took them from Florida to California to his normal routines. In addition, the rigors of running Maryland and eventually to Rochester, Minnesota. a renewable energy company greatly impacted his effectiveness and functionality at the company. Gene A PKD Conference in Orlando introduced them and Tina’s continued research convinced him that his to the prevention, slow down, and transplantation best option would be a kidney transplant although he process for people with PKD. While Gene and Tina’s knew that his greatest challenge would be finding a knowledge about Polycystic Kidney Disease was qualified living donor. expanding, so were his kidneys. Gene Okun continued exploring hospitals and eventually met a doctor in Los Angeles Gene’s turn to lose weight. His kidneys is grateful for his donor, support group, who suggested a consultation at were recorded at 25-30 pounds each and care team and doctors and will continue Mayo Clinic. Gene met Dr. Prieto possibly held the record as “The World’s being an advocate for PKD awareness, who explained the Largest Kidneys”. Mayo Clinic and Gift of Life Transplant laparoscopic procedure The greatest challenge His donor spent one House. he would perform for would be finding a week at Gift of Life For more information on Gene’s Story visit his kidney transplant qualified living donor Transplant House, his website at: and Gene was soon while Gene spent www.mybigdumbkidneys.com approved for a kidney transplant. He also the next 30 days recovering. He recalls met Dr. Schwab who told him about Gift his thrill to be walking 24 hours after of Life Transplant House as an excellent surgery and his recovery continues to be place for recovery due to its affordability, excellent. This summer, Gene joined Gift clean environment and opportunity to of Life Transplant House and DonateLife connect with other transplant patients. in the Rochester Parade. Gene walked the “I knew right away this was the place entire route and was a great encourager I’d like to recover”, Gene recalls after and advocate for organ donation his tour. The final step in his transplant journey was identifying a donor and an Gene’s other passion is to spread old friend selflessly offered the gift of life awareness about PKD. During his to Gene. illness, he created a website called “My Big Dumb Kidneys”, taking a humorous Gene’s donor needed to lose 50 pounds approach to the challenges of this to qualify for the surgery, so Gene Gene Okun (Right) with his disease. He has also created a YouTube surgeon, Dr. Prieto (left). offered encouragement and support. channel that demonstrates what it is like Once his donor was approved, it was living with the symptoms of PKD. Gene LETTER FROM OUR PRESIDENT, JOE FORRER Dear Friends, As the cool weather and fall colors welcome us into a new season it September brought us the Gala of the Decades – the 1880’s. This reminds me of how busy the last few months have been at Gift of Life was an event that, “you had to see it to believe it”. The dedicated Transplant House. committee not only spent hours planning and building facades, but they also pulled together a last minute venue change without a hitch. June brought us the end of the Trails4Transplant ride with a We can’t thank them enough for all their hard work and dedication to wonderful finale at the county fairgrounds. This group of riders came bring us another successful Gala of the Decades! from all corners of the country to ride for 6 years and 2000 miles to raise transplant awareness and donations for transplant related Change is the one sure thing we can count on in life and the board has charities. My wife and I were invited to join the posse for one of their seen a number of talented, wise, and dedicated members retire after last rides and after spending time with these folks we recognized how many years of service. I am privileged and honored to have served blessed we are to have this friendship. The remarkable effort of this with these pillars of the board and have learned much from them. group is funding the new outdoor living space for our guests, which is We are thankful for their continued service and insights shared on scheduled to begin next spring! committees and future events. We also welcome a number of new faces on the board and look forward to them sharing their talents to July brought us a very successful 34th Annual Golf Tournament. We face new challenges and opportunities. were fortunate to host former Viking/ Hall of Famer/ past guest of the house Carl Eller and his wife as our guest speakers this year and I In closing, I would like to thank our dedicated staff for their efforts don’t think there was a dry eye when they were finished. In addition, not only with their daily duties, but also going above and beyond past caregiver and guest Eric and Chris Graf made a long journey by contributing their time and talents to make every one of these to donate an array of sports memorabilia and an original life size events a success. I would also like to express my gratitude to all of façade of Carl in his purple people eater uniform created by Eric. We the volunteers that have donated their time and talent. I am amazed were also fortunate to have James Rabe donate his time and linguistic and humbled with the willingness and level of support from so many talents as the MC. Altogether the event was a sold out success and we in our community. We could not achieve our mission without you! look forward to seeing many of you at next year’s event! Sincerely, In August we had the first annual Table Inspirations –A Celebration Joe Forrer of Home where we had a number of volunteers commit their time Board President and décor skills to design a wonderful collage of table settings.

2 GIFT OF LIFE TRANSPLANT HOUSE | 705 SECOND STREET SW | ROCHESTER, MN 55902 A Heart Full of Love and a Hero to Thank

ily was just 3 months old lives” when Ryan and Trista when she came down Montgomery thought their Lwith RSV, but it didn’t baby girl was dying, to a day go away like it does for most of hope, courage and strength children. New Year’s Day, began their countdown to usually a time for new and go back home. Less than one happy beginnings was quite month later, Lily and her the opposite. 2018 began mom left the hospital and with a visit to the emergency came to Gift of Life Transplant room in Valley City, North House where she would spend Dakota and shortly followed the next month and a half with an ambulance ride to recovering and celebrating Fargo. Her father, Ryan, knew her 1st birthday! She was of his family history of heart a piece of sunshine at Gift complications and knew it had of Life Transplant House, to be more than a cold. With “becoming more social by the Trista Montgomery holding her daughter, Lily (post- a 50 percent chance of passing day, giving everyone at the transplant), enjoying a late down the gene, Ryan pressed house big smiles.” Once out summer sunny morning for an echo cardiogram of the hospital, they started revealing a diagnosis of Dilated with three appointments a Cardiomyopathy which was week, dropping to two, and shortly followed by a flight eventually just one visit a week to Saint Mary’s Hospital in until the 90 days passed and Rochester, MN. she was cleared to go home. Lily’s journey to a new heart “Our story may inspire others. began. Blood transfusions, Out in the ‘real’ world, you a temporary LVAD, Berlin have no idea this is going Pump, a breathing tube, and on. It’s amazing what stories multiple medications helped are told in this house.” Ryan, her through the 6 month wait. Trista, and Lily are deeply For most heart transplants at grateful for the donor and Lily’s size the wait is an average donor family who are the“true 3-4 months. As time surpassed heroes in this story.” the average wait, the nerves Lily’s future is bright and grew until the day they finally recovery has been quick. As got the news that a heart was Lily takes her first steps, her available. parents are preparing for a Day 190 was a day to lifetime of adventure and remember. July 10th 2018 Lily activities that come with a received her new heart. From soon-to-be toddler. “the scariest time of [their]

PHONE: 507-288-7470 | FAX: 507-281-9888 | [email protected] | WEBSITE: WWW.GIFT-OF-LIFE.ORG 3 3 Minutes Until Midnight, A Pancreas Awaits re you Ziegler? We’ve been waiting in Insulin) to prove there was something for y ou ,” were the comforting else going on, and had doctors from all words Jillian Ziegler heard departments running tests. She even Awhen she arrived at the Mayo Clinic went to Europe for a trial Subcutaneous Transplant Center. Jillian and her family Pump which worked for 2 weeks when received the call that a new pancreas was it broke. She had the same surgeon for 5 available, but they would need to arrive in years, 49 ports placed in her chest, and 43 Rochester no later than midnight. With Picc Lines (which was her actual lifeline), 3 minutes to spare, Jillian’s transplant but there was a limit to how many more journey began. Getting there they could do with all the had been no small feat. With “In God’s time, scar tissue that built up. no outgoing flights available everything falls Jillian’s final diagnosis from California, Jillian and into place” was Type 1 Diabetes her family were able to find Subcutaneous Insulin a friend who flew them on a Resistance. She can only absorb insulin private jet. As Jillian says, “In God’s time, through her skin and being Type 1, it everything falls into place...Every part of was impossible to live without being this story is a total blessing”. connected to a 24/7 IV pump connected Prior to her transplant needs, Jillian was to her port. get that pancreas”. In July, 2018 Jillian’s a healthy, active college student pursuing In 2016 a doctor suggested Mayo Clinic faith became a reality. During recovery, her dream of a Criminal Justice and where they recommended a transplant. Jillian and her mom were guests at Gift Sociology Degree to start her career in Jillian had never considered this as an of Life Transplant House and Jillian’s Law. At 18, her health took a drastic turn option. When she arrived at Mayo she willingness to share her story, her quiet and eventually, she was diagnosed with was asked how she felt about the care- faith and her winning smile were well Type 1 Diabetes, a shock to the family plan and made sure she understood known to all. as she had always been a healthy child. everything they were discussing. Her Jillian reminds us all to count each day as Her tear-jerking phobia of needles was visit to Mayo Clinic inspired hope and overcome quickly when it became a a blessing and not something to be taken faith that she had not experienced before. for granted. She also insists that all she choice of life or death. Within 3 years Jillian was the first patient seen with this she went to the hospital 50 times for went through will simply help doctors diagnosis and that would be treated with treat other patients and is an important DKA (diabetic ketoacidosis) and within a pancreas transplant. 5 years, she was falsely labeled non- part of her recovery. Jillian will be compliant by doctors, was put on 10,000 In June 2016 she was placed on the returning to school to finish her degree units of insulin (the amount of 2 pumps transplant list, and she kept telling and then hopes to become a Diabetes herself, “In God’s timing, I am going to Educator.

GIFT OF LIFE TRANSPLANT HOUSE WISH LIST

◊ New Commercial Vacuum Cleaners ◊ Gift Cards to Wal-Mart, Target, or Hy-Vee ◊ Toilet Paper ◊ Liquid hand soap (large refill bottles) ◊ Paper Towels ◊ Liquid dish soap ◊ Facial Tissues ◊ Hand Sanitizer refills ◊ $30 for a guest room night ◊ Scrubbing Bubbles ◊ Forever postage stamps ◊ Soft Scrub ◊ Ziploc bags, assorted sizes ◊ Regular & Decaffeinated coffee ◊ Wrapped Candy

4 GIFT OF LIFE TRANSPLANT HOUSE | 705 SECOND STREET SW | ROCHESTER, MN 55902 STAFF RECOGNITION

Under the guise of giving a presentation to the Transplant Center’s Grand Rounds, Steve Tarara, Operations Manager at Gift of Life Transplant House accompanied Mary Wilder to Mayo Clinic. However, little did Steve know that he was to be presented with the prestigious “Above and Beyond Award”! The award is presented quarterly to that individual who exemplifies the traits of selflessness, willingness to serve and exceeding the expectations of both staff and patients. During the presentation of the award, Dr. Charles Rosen, chair of the Division of Transplantation Surgery at Mayo Clinic and professor of surgery at Steve Tarara receiving the Mayo Clinic School of Medicine, cited Steve’s many acts of service, Mayo Clinic ‘Above and Beyond including missing family Thanksgiving for the past 11 years to serve Award’ from Dr. Charles Rosen. Thanksgiving Dinner at Gift of Life Transplant House. A non-Mayo employee has never received this award! Congratulations, Steve!

“Lemonade for Sale!” 6-Year Old Raises Money for Gift of Life Transplant House

endall Larsen, a precocious, impact on their lives and both made bubbly 5 year old, was spending friends with whom they still keep in Monday Funday with Grandma touch. The support they received at Gift KLarsen! While watching a Disney show, of Life Transplant House helped Jim to she was inspired to have a lemonade recover quickly and well. They have kept stand just like they did on the show. those stories and legacy alive in their “Please can we have a lemonade stand, family and while Kendall wasn’t born Grandma?”, she asked and even though when Grandpa Jim had his transplant, it was 95 degrees in Iowa, Grandma Deb his stories have left an impression on Larsen agreed. “Shall we charge for the her! lemonade?” Kendall responded. They Giving is an attitude this family is decided to charge $1.00 and Deb asked committed to. In 2016, Kendall donated what they should do with the money. 104 of her Beanie Babies to Ronald Kendall thought for a moment and then McDonald House! So, when asked said, “Let’s send it to the place that made where she wanted to give the money Grandpa better.” Kendall was referring from her lemonade stand, it was natural to Gift of Life Transplant House. for Kendall to want to donate it. In 2006, Jim (Grandpa) and Raeann We learned of Kendall’s lemonade and Flick came to Gift of Life Transplant cookie stand in June when we received House for Jim’s pancreas transplant. Jim an envelope containing the funds she had been waiting for a match for some had collected and a newspaper article time and had finally asked to be taken showing Kendall and her great-grandma off the transplant list. He promised his in front of her lemonade stand. Kendall daughter, Katie, that he would be asked collected $235.00 to donate to Gift of to be put back on when she graduated. Life Transplant House! On Sunday, Katie graduated in June, 2006; Jim was August 26th, Kendall, mom and dad, put back on the transplant list and 9 days Katie and Colin Larsen, and both sets of later, he received the call that a pancreas grandparents, Raeann & Jim Flick and was waiting for him! “I’ll never forget Deb and Marty Larsen, took the trip to that call”, Katie’s husband Colin recalls. Gift of Life Transplant House to see the A few years before, Jim had also had a place that had made Grandpa better! Kendall Larsen and her kidney transplant donated by his sister. family , visiting Gift of Thank you, Kendall! Life Transplant House. The time Jim and Raeann spent at Gift of Life Transplant House had a powerful

PHONE: 507-288-7470 | FAX: 507-281-9888 | [email protected] | WEBSITE: WWW.GIFT-OF-LIFE.ORG 5 SEPTEMBER TRIBUTES Each year in September Gift of Life Transplant House honors the legacy of hope and renewed life by celebrating Tribute Month, a month-long recognition of donors and recipients. The names to follow have shared the legacy of hope and renewed life. Tributes not only honor donors, recipients, and loved ones, but assists in continuing to provide “a home that helps and heals” to more than 4,500 guests and caregivers each year. The recipient is listed in italic and benefactor is listed in bold. We are thankful for everyone who took part in this special tribute opportunity. MEMORIALS

Alice King-Moormann Dave and Tess Holzer Jane and Steve Anderson Michael Moormann Rachael Pfloughoeft Sandra S. Marquart Andrew Davis Denise Thomas Janet Beuthin John Davis Jerry Thomas Kenneth Beuthin Ann Heinzler Dennis LeFief Jean Herbst Neale Sowers, Sister Jane, Angeline LeFief Sr. Margeen, Sr. Jane Sister Margeen Diana Kramer Francis, Diane and Jerry Ann Semke Gordon Dvorak Jeffrey and Sharon Raboin Karl Semke Dorothy Jacobs Gail Craycroft Bernard and Diane Owens Christopher P. Jacobs Jerome Pedersen John Owens Doug and Dianne Frantz Thomas A. Pedersen Bernard Thill Daniel D. Holmes Jill Vogstrom Donna Thill, Leila Thill Eugene Hayes Nancy Kirsch Beth Reller Loretta Hayes JoAnn Schaffer Stacey Sipe Smith, Brian Fred and Rosanne Fibeger Richard R. Schaffer Coahran Lucille Wehrs Joanne Kurhajetz Bill Saba Gerald and Marcia Semerau Judy Cooper Renette Saba Ron Semerau Johanna Vander Steen Bob and Cheryl Foeltz Ginger and David Holmes George Vander Steen Ruth Doebler Linda Vilmo, Kevin Dotson John and Dawn King Bob and Debra Rodell Ginger Schwarz Shirley Baune Ron R. Patrias Jan Lewis Judd and Jeanne Watson Bob and Diane Svangstu Gloria Hosman Steven Siegle Brian A. Svangstu Jerald Hosman Judith and Richard Koperski Bonnie Fisher J. Sheldon and Lydia Shelton Steven Siegle Charles L. Fisher Jeff Shelton Karl Keller Calvin and Nancy Smith Jacqueline Michehl Margaret Keller Gail Craycroft Ross H. Michehl Karleen Van Dyke Carol Bush James and Barbara Weixel Henry Carl Anderson Kenneth Bush Jean Wulf Käthe Schroeder Cindy and Doug Barry James Early Wesley Schroeder Robert F. Rowland Nancy Early Ken Hoffert Dale and Darlene Hofbauer James Leier Ardyce Hoffert Randall Dale Hofbauer, M.D. Tillie Leier Linda and Mark Willhite Darlene Mayer Jan and Patricia Strait Dale H. Willhite John H. Mayer James M. Bills Linda Miller Dave and Michelle Burke Allen Eric Miller Mary Brent

6 GIFT OF LIFE TRANSPLANT HOUSE | 705 SECOND STREET SW | ROCHESTER, MN 55902 Lois Larry Poessnecker Miriam A. Enge Rosemary Clark Gordon E. Dvorak Allen D. Enge Donald Clark Lois Geroux Myrtle Westphal Ruth Boone Rick Geroux Bernard Westphal Vernon Boone Lyle and Sandra Johnson Nancy Flury Sarah Rabb David Kasowski, Gladys Jay Flury Dick Rabb, Jan Lewis Freesemen, June Becker Norma Shipton Shanon and Elaine Polsfut Mark and Lesa Nauss Cynthia Patterson Shipton Nancy Moen Kary Kleinschrodt Patricia Meek Shirley Hardcastle Marlene Plantenberg Jim Merfeld Jack W. Hardcastle Mark Plantenberg Patrick and Cindy Petersen Shirley Schacherer Mary Ann Monk Gelene Rohr Louis Schacherer heart #98 Donald E. Monk Randolph and Sandra Hollingsworth Shirley Voss Mary Ann Smith Natalie M. Dalton William D. Voss Christopher Iannone Richard and Elizabeth Smith Stefano and Greta Guandalini Mary Tjerstad Dan Fondell Marco Furlani David Tjerstad Richard Audette Steve and Catherine Peterson Mary Wilder Beverly Audette Rita (Deters) Feddersen James Jacobson Richard Carver Sue Milner Merle Henke Alex Louie Schacherer Nicole R. Henke Rick Harder Thomas and Janice Donohue Michael and Eileen Pearlman Gail Bakeberg Sister Jane and Sister Margeen Sandi Pearlman Robert and Cecily Schurhamer Thomas Erpelding Michael and Emily Murphy Mike Gengler Connie Erpelding Curtis Evans Robert and Lynn Van Maaren Wanda Brandt Michael and Sharon Hickman Jan Lewis Marcia Clemetsen Nelson Katie Hickman Robert F. Kerber Wendell and Mary Smith Michael B. and Roberta Marcinkus Rita A. Kerber Margaret Smith Askew Carole Marcinkus Roger Erickson William and Katherine Hamlin Michael Backstrom Hank Anderson Al Krech Jean Anne Backstrom Roger Icenogle William and Pamela Link Mike and Pat Just Phyllis Icenogle Bob Manly Stacey Sipe Smith Ron Youngman Mike Burke Mary McGovern Velma Burke “It’s hard to forget someone who gave you so much to remember.”

PHONE: 507-288-7470 | FAX: 507-281-9888 | [email protected] | WEBSITE: WWW.GIFT-OF-LIFE.ORG 7 SEPTEMBER TRIBUTES TRIBUTES Adrian Regan Greg Warner Nick Pompeian My donor Ed Pompeian Ed and Aaron Pompeian Alene Knesel James Quam Patricia Meek George Knesel The love of my life, Jean Pat Meek Amy Mazur John Weeks Patricia Webber Tami Konakowitz Lois E. Weeks Gray Webber Carmine Fatigati Joyce Sibson Perry Haines Tim Ottmann David Sibson Kris Haines Charles and Vonnie Aug Karin Trosine Phyllis Briles Jim Dunbar, Josh Ommen Gene Trosine Dorene Zimdahl Connie Doepke Karleen Van Dyke Preston and Nancy Nelson Paul Doepke Lori Lynn Lange My donor, Jerry Nelson Curt Seehusen Karmon Taft Richard and Linda Packard Susan Seehusen Lexi Taft Christine Packard Stevens Curtis and Paula Babb Katherine Wilson Robert and Jennifer Oschwald Gift of Life Transplant House My husband, Dave Wilson Ann Oschwald Staff Kathryn Crnobrna Robert Garrity Dale and Bonnie Husman Ron Crnobrna - 20 year liver My son, Gregory Garrity Jeanine Aspen transplant survivor Robert Rowbal Daniel and Beth Hestetune Kathleen Benters Alan Rowbal Richard L. Wahlberg My husband and donor, Elden Roger Bird Dave and Tess Holzer Benters Ann W. Bird Paul Martin, Paula Stephens, Kathy Blessum Roger Erickson Tom Stephens, Sharon Martin, Jerry Blessum Lori Lange Sara Fabian, Stacy Rossin Keith and Sherri Krebsbach Ryan and Cynthia Thompson David and Shirley Evenson Amanda Krebsbach Vierling Mary Ann Leingang, Rick Hummel Martha Evenson Murray Ken Smidowicz Sarah Neall Dease and John Charais Marlene B. Smidowicz Rodney Nett Cathy Carchedi Larry Rathmann Scott and Betty Rockendorf Douglas Jenkins Linda Rathmann My living kidney donor, Marcia Jenkins Lisa Williams Mary Ann Hein Dorothy Wenzel Ken and Elaine Williams Robert Wenzel Sharon Mraz Louis and Bette Jayne Haak Roger Mraz Egils Augstums Suzanne Miner Norma Bartels Sheila and Danny Boger Lynn Kruse My unknown donor Eric Lovestrand My liver donor, Steven McCluskey Troy Lovestrand Susan and John Roise Mark and Michele Evans The housekeeping staff Floyd and Sandra Clark All who give life Alex Clark Tanya Hanson Mary Rossell Gary Melin Frank Stubbs and Tom Lee My donor, Stacy Rossell Mark and Robin Nelson Tom and Judy Rice Melvin and Suzanne Matson Terry Fettus Gabriele and Cynthia Dellanave My donor, Darren Matson Jim Dunbar Tom and Rosie McKay Michael and Amanda Rose Vicki Aegerter Greg Vilmo William Schultz Allen Watanabe, Dianna Dotson, Tove and Thomas Kinley Nancy Longley Bev Dwelly, Mary Coleman Steve Tarara, Ginger Holmes Mary Jo O’Hearn Viva Gillio Vickie Gillio

8 GIFT OF LIFE TRANSPLANT HOUSE | 705 SECOND STREET SW | ROCHESTER, MN 55902 “Every day I pray for the person who made the choice to be an organ donor. I pray for the family that honored the donor’s wish. And every day I honor his or her memory by trying to remain a healthy person.” -Gift of Life Transplant House Guest

CONTRIBUTIONS Tony Montgomery Realty & Auction Co. Gary and Susan Bouska Mark and Janelle Clausen Aileen Williams Gary Hentze Mark and Judy Winters Andrew and Susan Kent Gaylon and Linda Rust Michael and Ida Robson Antonino Iaderosa Gerald and Joan Krzmarzick Michael and Jeanne Wagner Ardus Schwartz Gerald and Kathy Langer Michael and Patricia Plantenberg Arthur Reese J. Scott and Robyn Levene Muneer and Blanche Baig Bernard and Nancy Gross James and Helen Murray Patrick and Karla Grennan Betty Lee James and Mary Rusin Paul and Genny O’Haire Bob and Mary Ann Leingang James and Susan Schmitt Perry Sievert Bruce Brown James and Valerie Godsey Richard and Beverly Sanders Carol and Jess Hahn James Hamann Richard and Joyce Swan Charles Long James Helminiak Richard and Patricia Zimmerman Danielle and Eric Braham James Rabe Robert and Beth Dames Daryl D. Engelhardt Janessa Silcox Robert and Peggy DeVries David and Mary Cichos Janice and Milton Chaney Roman and Arlene Blonigen David and Paula Finn Jeffrey and Joyce Dupre Russell Carroll David and Ronda Gassman Jerry and Sandee Sept Sally Flowers Dean and Mavis Brunsvold Jerry and Sherry Groenewold Scott and Gail Purdy Dennis and Helga Johnson Joan and Jim Perfetti Sharon Ottoson Dennis and Leann Olhausen John and Patricia Browne Steve and Heidi Ash Diana and Tim Logan Joyce Redetzke Sydney Gray Diane White Judd and Jeanne Watson Terrence and Marie Hernesman Don and Gloria Comin Julie Wynne Therese Jacobson Donna and Tom Stroup Kevin Boeck Thomas M. McFarland Doris Jones Kevin Peterson Tom Scholberg Dr. Norman and Charmaine Hepper Kyle and M. Cathy Fraser Wendy Kenworthy Dwight and Lisa Bacon Leon and Dorothy Stokes William Lehman Eli and Susan Churchwell, Jr. LeRoy Mamer Zeke and Mary Fleet Florence Anderson Lydia and Keith Schuck Gary and Jean Anderson Marion Schank

PHONE: 507-288-7470 | FAX: 507-281-9888 | [email protected] | WEBSITE: WWW.GIFT-OF-LIFE.ORG 9 Did You Know... Gift of Life Transplant House was founded in 1984 by In 2009 the “Expansion kidney transplant patient for Life” campaign was Ed Pompeian. His vision completed and the Anne and and mission was to provide Henry Zarrow House was transplant patients and their built, adding 36 guest rooms caregivers with high quality, to Gift of Life Transplant affordable accommodationsHouse making it the largest in a supportive home-like hospitality house in the environment. country. FACTS & FIGURES Ed Pompeian received “the Today, Gift of Life Transplant gift of life”, a kidney, from his House has 84 rooms on its ▷ Founded in 1984 by Ed Pompeian mother, Helen and years later campus and hosts over 4,500 ▷ 84 double occupancy rooms make from his son. He worked for guests a year. Whether eight it the largest hospital hospitality years with Mary Davie, Dr. rooms or 84, Gift of Life house in the US Sylvester Sterioff, and Greg Transplant House is a home ▷ $30/night - With a one time $40 Warner to build, support away from home for our cleaning fee and open the original Gift of guests. Beginning with “the ▷ The Susan Powers Helping Hand Life, Inc.—a three-story, eight gift of life” we will continue to guest room house. value the mission and vision Fund helps provide reduced fees for to provide a home that helps guests who need financial assistance In 1994, Gift of Life purchased ▷ 95% of donations support the the Judd House, the current and heals. mission of Gift of Life Transplant 705 Edward and Jayne In 2019 Gift of Life Transplant Pompeian House, and began House will be celebrating it’s House renovations immediately. In 35th Anniversary. Events will ▷ Over 100 community organizations 2000 they expanded again be held throughout the year to prepared and served meals for with 48 rooms. celebrate 35 years! guests in the last year

An Evening with Ken Burns n September 10, 2018, Gift of Life Transplant House founder, Ed Pompeian, his wife, Jayne, Past President, Nick Pompeian, Board President OJoe Forrer and Executive Director Mary Wilder were pleased to be invited to the premiere showing of the Ken Burns’ documentary: The Mayo Clinic: Faith, Hope and Science. The evening also included a private Meet and Greet with Ken Burns. To say it was a privilege to meet this well-known and well-respected filmmaker would be an understatement! The two-hour documentary kept the large crowd that As the documentary unfolded, however, the similarities filled the Mayo Civic Auditorium transfixed, describing between the vision and determination of founder Ed the history of Dr. William Worrall Mayo. Using rarely Pompeian were undeniable and just as Mayo Clinic seen archival film and photos, the documentary wove celebrates their history, success and legacy, Gift of Life the story of the legacy of a group of compassionate and Transplant House celebrates the continued mission to determined individuals who placed and continue to provide a “home that helps and heals”. place patients above profits.

10 GIFT OF LIFE TRANSPLANT HOUSE | 705 SECOND STREET SW | ROCHESTER, MN 55902 Clean, Comfortable and Inviting

frequent comment heard by our tour guides is relationships are as meaningful for the staff as they are for our amazement at the exceptional cleanliness and well- guests! maintained grounds at Gift of Life Transplant House Our lead housekeeper, Missy Johnson, emphasizes that it is Aand it is the commitment of our housekeeping and facilities a team effort to ensure that standards are exceeded. She also staff that maintains this safe and healing environment for our recognizes the importance of their work, “working in an guests. These dedicated staff members aren’t just performing environment like this, it takes a special person. They must truly specific tasks; they are creating and maintaining, as one guest care about their told us: an “uncommonly clean and well maintained” home job and the away from home. When a room is vacated by a guest, We make it our goal to help our housekeeping staff gets make this part of our guests’ to work – laundering all bedspreads, pillowcases and life journey as comfortable closet blankets; sanitizing and safe as possible.” all surfaces in the room, “ including bed frames, nightstands, dressers and on a routine well-being of basis, the heating and AC units in each room. They keep everyone that the hand sanitizers stocked and rooms disinfected so our walks through the door. We make it our goal to help make immunosuppressed guests feel at ease as they heal. this part of our guests’ life journey as comfortable and safe as In addition to the housekeeping staff, the facilities staff keep possible.” everything in working order and do whatever they can to help The facilities and housekeeping staff work very closely together make our guests feel like they are at home. From lawn care to in order to the keep the house clean and comfortable for every snow removal, parking lot and exterior maintenance, ensuring guest. Without the collaboration between the two teams, the the cleanliness of the common areas and handling minor cleanliness and appearance of our campus would not fulfill our repairs in all of our 84 rooms, every day presents a wide variety mission - to provide high quality, affordable accommodations of tasks. But what makes our housekeeping and facilities staff to transplant patients and their caregivers in a supportive, so unique is their willingness to stop whatever they are doing home-like environment. to spend time visiting with guests and caregivers. These

House Happenings

FACILITIES OPERATIONS CHILLER PROJECT is completed! Replacing our 18 year old TV’S HAVE BEEN INSTALLED thanks to a donation by Holiday chiller at the Edward and Jayne Pompeian Home was a priority Inn at the Edward and Jayne Pompeian Home and the Anne this spring and we were able to have it completed and ready and Henry Zarrow Home above the guest mail boxes. With the for use before the first warm days came. help of modern technology, we will soon have digital signage announcing our events, community groups preparing dinner CARPET REPLACEMENT PROJECT is underway! Thanks to the and other important information. generosity of so many at our 34th Annual Golf Tournament, funds were available to replace the carpet in our office areas as THANKSGIVING at Gift of Life Transplant House. Preparations well as the stairwells at the Edward and Jayne Pompeian Home. have already begun for Thanksgiving 2018 at the houses. Every year we serve approximately 150 guests that are unable to get DRY SPRINKLER UPGRADE is nearly completed! The dry home to their own families. Turkeys and all the Thanksgiving sprinkler system at the Edward and Jayne Pompeian Home trimmings are graciously donated and staff and volunteers underwent an upgrade this fall and is nearly complete. help to cook turkeys and serve the meal! To join us for the meal, contact Steve Tarara at [email protected].

PHONE: 507-288-7470 | FAX: 507-281-9888 | [email protected] | WEBSITE: WWW.GIFT-OF-LIFE.ORG 11 Thanks to all of you, 2018 was a busy and successful year for 2018our events, from Donate Life Month in April, to being inspired by a speech from Carl and Molly Eller at our 34th Annual Golf Tournament to traveling back in time to the 1880’s for our 4th Annual Gala of the Decades, and celebrating the meaning of home with our first ever Table Inspirations, A Celebration of Home event. With the help of our Corporate Partners, event committees, volunteers, and Gift of Life Transplant House supporters such as Tim Rasmusson Foundation and Trails4Transplants, 2018 was a fun and successful year raising funds to continue providing a “home that helps & heals.”

Thank you to our Corporate Partners for making this year a success!

LEGACY: INVESTING: FRIEND: ENRICHING: WEIS BUILDERS MAYO SPECIALTY 125 LIVE ALTRA FEDERAL PHARMACY BRENTWOOD CREDIT UNION ONB BANK HOME FEDERAL COMMONWEAL

Table Inspirations, A Celebration of Home

34th Annual Gift of 34th Annual Gift of Life Golf Tournament Life Golf Tournament

12 GIFT OF LIFE TRANSPLANT HOUSE | 705 SECOND STREET SW | ROCHESTER, MN 55902 Med City FC players donated Wish List Items 34th Annual Gift of Life Golf Tournament 34th Annual Gift of Life Golf Tournament Pictured: Jayne and Ed Pompeian Pictured: Carl and Molly Eller

One of our many dinners hosted by volunteers. Pictured: Fools 5 Group

Check presentation from Tim Rasmusson Foundation SHARING THE GIFT OF LIFE

CELEBRATING THE GIFT OF LIFE

INSPIRING

Ron Kreinbring, Roger Erickson, THE GIFT OF LIFE and Chuck Pagenhart retired from the Board of Directors after a combined tenure of 80 years!

Gift of Life Transplant House Gift of Life Transplant Walk of Remembrance and Gift of Life Transplant House Gala of the Decades, 1880’s House 5k Run/Walk Donate Life Day Rochester Gala of the Decades, 1880’s

PHONE: 507-288-7470 | FAX: 507-281-9888 | [email protected] | WEBSITE: WWW.GIFT-OF-LIFE.ORG 13 I would not have awareness about organ, tissue and t all started in Warren, MN in my precious grandchildren,” Roger eye donation, but they have also 2013. Roger Hille, co-founder of Hille. raised over $91,000 for Gift of Life Trails4Transplants, along with Transplant House from 2013 – 2015. IAshley Peterson, formulated a plan Ashley’s brother, Blake, was in a car During our Gala of the Decades, to ride horseback from Warren, MN accident in 2000 and succumbed to Roger Hille presented Gift of Life to Rochester, MN over the course of head injuries. Knowing he would Transplant House with a check for 6 years. Traveling roughly 300 miles have wanted to donate his organs, his $108,000 – the culmination of their over a 2-week period every year, family honored those wishes by gifting rides during 2016 – 2018. These funds Trails4Transplants riders have traveled his heart, liver, kidneys and pancreas will be used to build a deck and patio over 2,000 miles! Their mission is to to save four lives. “In 2011, our family area on the east side of the Edward alleviate major health issues by raising met his heart recipient for the first and Jayne Pompeian Home in spring awareness for the need of organ, eye, time and were given the opportunity of 2019. We are immensely grateful and tissue donations and to promote to listen to his heart with a stethoscope for the partnership and support of donor registration for said donations. 11 years after his death. Blake’s legacy will continue through his decision to this wonderful organization and look Roger’s son-in-law, Dave Hanson, be an organ donor.” forward to continued opportunities to received a liver transplant at age 26. partner together during the coming “Without the gift of organ donation, Not only has Trails4Transplants years! done the important work of raising

The Char Dietz Laundry Room

126 deviled eggs, countless hours in the outside the newly announced “Char Dietz laundry room, and unlimited smiles Laundry Room” reads: were offered by Char Dietz during her six In recognition of the countless, selfless 1month stay at Gift of Life Transplant House. hours Char has volunteered to Gift of Life Char was a stem cell transplant recipient and Transplant House, many spent working in guest who returned this summer. Her one this laundry room. In 2013, Char received a condition for staying at the house was that stem cell transplant and stayed as a guest of she would get to volunteer her time to help Gift of Life Transplant House. Her fervent out at the house. wish was that she would be able to give back Everyone has their passions in life, and for to the place that had brought healing to her Char, her passion lies within Gift of Life and so many others. Char continues to bless Transplant House. the lives of all those who meet her. Stories and recipes were shared, phone September, 2018 numbers and emails were exchanged, and friendships were strengthened over her stay. Char’s humility and selflessness is continuously honored and enjoyed by Char Dietz provided Gift of Life Transplant House with gratitude, the staff, volunteers, and guests of the house. She made it well-known to house keeping, and delicious food. However, she would tell you that her family that this place was her passion. They didn’t fully understand if she could spend her spare time doing laundry, she would. To honor until her sisters visited Char at Gift of Life Transplant House and saw everything she has done for the staff and guests of the house, the how much her face lit up as she gave them a tour and introduced them laundry rooms at the Jayne and Edward Pompeian Home and the Anne to staff members and guests. Char has made a lasting impression on all and Henry Zarrow Home were dedicated in her name. The plaque who have met her! If you have the chance next summer, stop by - you will probably find Char in the laundry room with a big smile. 14 GIFT OF LIFE TRANSPLANT HOUSE | 705 SECOND STREET SW | ROCHESTER, MN 55902 ANNIVERSARIES

nniversaries mark the passage of time, recall staff. December 10, 1984 the doors opened to the our triumphs and honor our losses. I had the first Gift of Life Transplant House and the most privilege of celebrating my first anniversary remarkable tribute is that the impact the house has Aas Executive Director of Gift of Life Transplant on transplant patients and their caregivers remains House recently and what an amazing year this has unchanged – providing a ‘home that helps and been! The highlight for me has been listening to h e a l s’. the anniversary stories of our guests and caregivers, 35 years is a remarkable achievement and we are celebrating 1st, 3rd, 40th years of transplant! The deeply humbled and honored to realize that it would celebrations are as unique as each person – birthday not have been possible without your committed parties to celebrate a 1st “birthday” – one year post support to our mission – to provide high quality, transplant to former guests bringing in a cake to affordable accommodations to transplant patients celebrate 15 years post-transplant with current and their caregivers in a supportive, home-like guests and caregivers. environment. 2019 will bring another anniversary to Gift of Life Transplant House! We will celebrate our 35th From our home to yours, Anniversary! Our planning committee is already Mary Wilder working on a year long celebration that will include Executive Director the community, guests, caregivers, benefactors and

Est. 1984 Rochester, MN Celebrating Years

Join us in 2019 as we celebrate the 35th Anniversary of Gift of Life Transplant House. We have a busy year planned for 2019! Keep up to date with all of our events by following us on Facebook and Instagram! www.facebook.com/giftoflifetransplanthouse

@GiftOfLifeTransplantHouse #GiftOfLifeTransplantHouse

www.linkedin.com/company/gift-of-life-transplant-house/

PHONE: 507-288-7470 | FAX: 507-281-9888 | [email protected] | WEBSITE: WWW.GIFT-OF-LIFE.ORG 15 Gift of Life Transplant House Gift of Life Inc. Mission Statement 705 Second Street, Southwest Rochester, Minnesota 55902

The mission of Gift of Life Transplant House is to provide transplant patients and their caregivers with high quality, affordable accommodations in a supportive, home-like environment.

Gift of Life Transplant House is a proud member of

Thank you to our Gift of Life Transplant House Staff: (From left to Right) Bob Himmer, Kari Wedeking, Norm Theel, Tami Konakowitz, Mitch Yennie, Becky Cain, Miranda Halling, Steve Tarara, Kathy Gilbertson, Ladd Baldus, Debbie Nichols, Cory Cody, Mary Wilder

Not Pictured: Julie Cole, Debbie Niemeier, Val Koehn, Missy Johnson

GIFT OF LIFE TRANSPLANT HOUSE BOARD OF DIRECTORS AND STAFF

Executive Committee Honorary Lifetime Board Members Desk Receptionists: Debbie Nichols, Julie Cole President - Joe Forrer Mary Davie Vice President - PJ Calkins Sylvester Sterioff, MD Resident Night/Weekend Supervisors Past President - Nick Pompeian 724 House: Debbie Niemeier 705 House: Val Koehn Secretary - Kathy Jensen Gift of Life Transplant House Staff Treasurer - Jesse Buhl Executive Director Facilities Founder - Edward Pompeian Mary Wilder Bob Himmer, Cory Cody, Mitch Yennie Board Members Facilities Manager Lead Housekeeper Ladd Baldus Missy Johnson Arlene Bahr Cyle Erie Operations Manager Housekeepers Lori Ewoldt Steve Tarara Kathy Gilbertson, Becky Cain Bob Groettum Office Supervisor Marketing Event Coordinator Dr. Saad Kendarian Miranda Halling David Liebow Kari Wedeking Paul Mensing Lead Desk Reception Tour Guide Sheila Nelson Tami Konakowitz Norm Theel Dr. Thomas Schwab Brian Sheehan