FALL/WINTER 2020 gift of life

GIFT OF LIFE TRANSPLANT HOUSE A HOME THAT HELPS AND HEALS

Life Is A Beautiful Melody Becky and Fred McGuire have lived a life of blood loss due to her failing liver. She heard for the first time adventure – from farming, to groundskeeping, – “You will need a transplant”. Since there were no medical to Alaska and finally to Rochester, MN. Their facilities doing transplants at the time in Alaska, Becky and Fred story is one of courage, tears, faith and triumph, made the decision to move back to Minnesota and lived with but we’re getting ahead of ourselves. dear friends until the family could get established. Becky and Fred were married in September, 1974 Those were days of frequent doctor appointments, trips to the and farmed for 8 years. With a growing family of 3 ER, phone calls from her now grown daughters asking if she had daughters and one on the way, Becky and Fred moved to remembered to take her medications and waiting. The wait for town, and began a lawn business. Shortly after Christmas a deceased liver donor can be up to a year, but Becky knew that that same year, Fred became the janitor for the local school. to receive her gift of life, someone would have to lose theirs. Life was good for the little family but a life-long dream She had heard of a living liver donor program at Mayo Clinic, of living in Alaska opened up for them and they seized the but soon learned that Mayo Clinic was very hesitant to perform opportunity. one. Her liver counts had to be critically low and throughout her It was while in Alaska that Becky first heard that her liver counts wait, her numbers had been maintaining. were concerning to her doctors. She was to return in three During this time, three of her daughters were tested to see if they weeks to have them checked but found herself hospitalized with could be her donor and none of them were the perfect match. About this time, Becky’s number dropped assured that there was to critical levels and she and Fred moved in no impropriety and the with her daughter Tiffeny and her husband. transplant was scheduled Even though the grandchildren were young, for April 8, 2011. they realized that grandma needed to rest That was nine years ago and often played quietly. The pain Becky and throughout the years, experienced was becoming more intense and Becky, Fred and her every day she was feeling more and more family have supported fatigued, sick and forgetful. She knew she Gift of Life Transplant would soon need a miracle. House by bringing loads Their daughter Jennifer had signed up to of wish list items and go to Kenya as part of a short-term mission even preparing a meal for trip and while there, she shared her mom’s our guests! Perhaps the situation and asked for prayer. A young most unique way in which woman named Kimberly listened intently they have supported Gift and the next morning approached Jennifer. of Life Transplant House Unbelievably, she said that she believed she was through Fred’s work was the one who was supposed to be Becky’s at ServiceMaster. Fred donor. True to her word, when the group provides training to insurance agents returned to the States, Kimberly called Mayo and due to COVID, had to resort to Clinic to inquire about becoming a living virtual trainings. As part of the training, liver donor. She persisted in asking if she Fred tells the story of Becky and Gift could be tested and she was accepted to be of Life Transplant House and then he evaluated. The results showed she was the asks his classes if they would consider perfect match for Becky, but Mayo Clinic donating the training fee to Gift of Life was insistent on one more requirement. She Transplant House. Those donations would need to meet Becky! Amazingly, totaled $1,845! notes to make a melody! Becky’s life has Becky and Kimberly had never met and Becky recently shared her story at a church been a mixture of many notes, combinations Mayo Clinic wanted to be certain there in their community and she ended her story of major and minor chords, forming a melody wasn’t going to be an exchange of money or by reminding us that hearing just one note that is sincere, faith-filled and beautiful! gifts in return for the liver. They were soon on the piano may be nice, but it takes many

GIFT OF LIFE TRANSPLANT HOUSE WISH LIST

◊ $30 for a guest room night ◊ Scrubbing Bubbles ◊ Regular & Decaffeinated coffee ◊ Soft Scrub ◊ Wrapped Candy ◊ Toilet bowl cleaner ◊ Gift Cards to Wal-Mart, Target, or Hy-Vee ◊ Tupperware ◊ Forever postage stamps ◊ Storage containers ◊ Gallon Ziploc Bags ◊ New Commercial Vacuum Cleaners ◊ Napkins ◊ Hand Sanitizer ◊ Paper Towels ◊ Lysol Spray ◊ Facial Tissues ◊ Disinfectant Wipes ◊ Toilet Paper

Find our Amazon Wish List and links to items on our Website.

2 GIFT OF LIFE TRANSPLANT HOUSE | 705 SECOND STREET SW | ROCHESTER, MN 55902 TOGETHERNavigating COVID-19 WE at Gift CAN of Life Transplant House

Since March, 2020 our motto EVENTS IN 2020 KROC, the musical talents has been Together We Can. In July, we held our 36th of Kimberly Collins, Gary With the cooperation of Annual Golf Tournament, but and Kelsi Stacken and our our guests, caregivers, staff with thoughtful precautions Mennonite singers as well and volunteers, we remain taken to safeguard our as testimonial videos of our confident that we can: attendees. Staggered tee guests! • Keep Gift of Life Transplant times kept teams separated; One event that was deeply House open masks and hand sanitizers missed this year was the GOL • Alleviate stress and anxiety were provided for each 5k Walk & Run. This event of guests and caregivers golfer; a partition in the golf has been planned and run by • Stop Coronavirus at the carts separated individual former guest AJ Patrick and front doors golfers and a meal served by more recently by members • Continue to employ our the Country Club staff outside of the Rochester community. staff as golfers finished kept the However, this year, due to But you may be wondering group to no more than 25 at COVID, we weren’t able to how COVID has impacted a time, and only 4 to a table. host the event! our daily routines and our The weather was outstanding WHAT DOES THE events. and it was a great day! FUTURE HOLD DAILY CLEANING An outdoor event was FOR GIFT OF LIFE ROUTINES not possible for either TRANSPLANT HOUSE? Our cleaning and sanitation our Culinary Showdown While we can’t predict where standards have always or our Gala, so we chose COVID will take us in the been exceptional, but with alternatives. coming year, we are certain COVID, we added on the Our Culinary Showdown that Gift of Life Transplant hour disinfecting of all the featured a special event House will continue to high touch areas in the house. for our Corporate Partners. provide high quality, They received a Private affordable accommodations GUEST for transplant patients EXPECTATIONS Virtual Chef Class with Pasquale of Pasquale’s and their caregivers in Guests, caregivers, staff and Pizzeria in Rochester that a supportive, home-like volunteers are required to could be watched as well as environment. wear masks throughout the all the fixings for one of his Your support during this house. The only exceptions outstanding pizzas! difficult time has given us are when a meal is being the energy and courage to enjoyed or a guest and And our Gala theme Thank You For Not Coming continue moving forward and caregiver are in their guest we are so grateful! room. featured a Virtual Gala that included host James Rabe of Thank You.

PHONE: 507-288-7470 | FAX: 507-281-9888 | [email protected] | WEBSITE: WWW.GIFT-OF-LIFE.ORG 3 SEPTEMBER TRIBUTES The names to follow have shared the legacy of hope and renewed life. Tributes not only honor donors, recipients, and loved ones, but assist in continuing to provide “a home that helps and heals” to more than 4,400 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

Alfred, Kathy Callahan, Jane Feist, Miriam Kelly Mauss Mark Callahan Robert M. Feist Allen, Carol and Okie Cates, Kathleen Fisher, Bonnie Jan Lewis James E. Bliler Charles L. Fisher Altenburg, Andrew Clement, Nancy Flury, Nancy Jenny Kaitlyn Griffin Jay K. Flury Anderson, Betty Conine, Stacy Forrer, Joe and Cindy Randel Anderson, liver recipient on My late wife, Amee Jo Conine and Cole Forrer, Dr. Mohsin Hakim 10/12/2003 her Cleveland Clinic Cardiologist, Forster, JoAnn and Chuck Anderson, Larry and Linda Dr. David Taylor. He was her hero! Reon Swart, heart donor for JoAnn Mike Liebl Cordes, Paula in 2006; Jim Forster, brother-in-law Anderson, Leslie Rick Cordes and bone marrow transplant Edna Ackerson Cornelius, Leo recipient Antonson, Delores Mary Ellen Cornelius Friendt, Steve and Ella Jo My husband, Don Antonson, a Cosio, Dr. Fernando and Mary Jo Mike Gengler patient at Mayo 6/2010 Kathy Koch Gaffey, Thomas and Lynne Audette, Richard Crnobrna, Ronald and Kathryn Ed Pompeian Beverly Audette Sr. Margeen Gangness, Ron Babb, Paula Cromley, BriAnna Shirley Gangness Curtis W. Babb Don Truman George, Dana Backstrom, Michael Dallas, Gregory Ed Pompeian Jean Anne Backstrom Christina Dallas Geroux, Lois Bakeberg, Robbie Dillon, Paul and Jane Rick Geroux Gail Bakeberg Ed Pompeian Glodoski, Larry and Mary Belter, Wesley Dockter, Pat and Bill Wood Brian Titus Cotrell Judy Belter Jessica Hulm Gran, Lowell and Carol Bennett, Carol Droessler, Tom and Mary Linda Vilmo Daryl Bennett Andy Droessler Granquist, Elaine Biegert, Lisa Early, James Robert F. Granquist Craig Biegert Nancy Early Gulley, DeDee Blonigen, Roman and Arlene Edmonds, Richard and Jackie Billie Roberts Mike Meldrum Paul Tine Hardwig, Margaret Bower, Jody and Tom Elkie, Linda James Hense Ed Pompeian, Kaitlyn Griffin Leo Elkie Harnisch, Douglas and Roberta Braithwaite, Tacey Erickson, Roger Jeff Maddock Tom Braithwaite Henry C. Anderson Haugstad, Thomas and Debra Brandvik, Nancy Erpelding, Thomas Ed Pompeian Michael Brandvik Connie Erpelding Heinzler, Ann Broker, Ervin Erwin, Carl and Jaquelyn Neale Sowers, Sr. Jane Gregoire, Sr. Sandy Broker Donna Iverson Margeen Hoffmann Byers, Keith and Connie Falkenstein, Eugene and Jane Heise, Ronald and Joanne Virgil Binfet Eric Lepien Unknown liver donor of 15 years ago

4 GIFT OF LIFE TRANSPLANT HOUSE | 705 SECOND STREET SW | ROCHESTER, MN 55902 “It’s hard to forget someone who gave you so much to remember.” Hess, Barbara Koperski, Judith and Richard McKinney, Leigh and Greg Belshe Garry L. Hess Our son, Steven Siegle Larry Bernhardt Hjelm, Greg Kraus, James McLaughlin, Nancy Debbie Hjelm Sue Ellen Kraus Steve Smith Hoffert, Ken Kroning, Terry and Cindy Mell, Susan and Jack Ardyce C. Hoffert Nadeem Baig John Walsh Hosman, Gloria Kurhajetz, Joanne Menk, Charles and Delores Jerald Hosman Judy Cooper Sr. Margeen Hoffmann Hyde, Peter and Valerie Ladin, Karl and Lynn Meservy, James and LeAnn Donor Jarret Joyce Baumler Dick Rabb, Jan Lewis Isaacson, Katherine Lair, Rodney and Sara Meyer, Frances Steven Isaacson Daryl Brumm Unknown liver donor Jacobson, Therese Lassic, Jalynn Michels, Joyce and Larry Sue Sands Dr. Jimmie, Linda Sherman Lassic Alfred R. Boccafola Jenkins, Marcia and Douglas Latterell, Dale and Sharon Miller, Linda All donors who sacrified so much! Steven Isaacson Allen Miller Johnson, Bryan Lehman , Kim Miller, Ryan and Kristin Kathy Allen Bill Lehman Doug Matzek Johnson, Duayne and Nancy Lewis, Justin Miller, Ron and Jean Joshua Wold, heart donor 2013 Ed Pompeian Gail Bakeberg Johnson, Kristin Link, William and Pamela Milner, Sue Leslie Peter Johnson Robert Manly Dad, Louie Schacherer Jones, Cheryl Loven, Marlys Monk, Mary Ann Kevin Dotson, Don Truman My husband, Sheldon Donald Monk Jopp, Annette Lund, Kim and Eric Moormann, Alice Jay McCoy Steve Shank Michael Moormann Kehrli, Karen Lynne, Marlene Morin, Brenda Wayne R. Kehrli Kay Lindsey Clifford Bad Moccasin (brother), Keller, Sarah Mack-Milbocker, Nancy kidney transplant,1997 Ed Pompeian Jerome (Jerry) Coger Moxon, Richard G. and Jean Kile, Beverly and Jeff Margalith, Eli and Michal Greg Moxon John Lutzka Ayal Margalith Murphy, Michael and Emily Kilpatrick, Dr. Michael and Diana Martin, Jr., Fred and Sharon Curtis Evans Ed Pompeian Father, Fred Martin Sr. Nath, Karl and Karen Klahr, Inga Martini, Joseph and Tina Ed Pompeian Garrett Klahr Scott (1994), Shawn (2005) Nauss, Mark and Lesa Kocharian, Armen and Marine Davtian Mayer, Darlene Kary Alfred Kleinschrodt Ed Pompeian John H. Mayer Nelson, L. Brian Marcia A. Nelson

PHONE: 507-288-7470 | FAX: 507-281-9888 | [email protected] | WEBSITE: WWW.GIFT-OF-LIFE.ORG 5 SEPTEMBER TRIBUTES MEMORIALS

Nicholl, Suzanne Roth, Judy Truman, Laura Brian Cottrell Lanny Roth Don Truman Nicklawsky, Emilie and Michael Rowbal, Robert R. and Stacy Ubben, Kathryn Jack and Bernadine Wiersma Ann Rowbal Stan Ubben Nuorala, Ken Saba, William Valente, Constance Jeremy Nuorala Renette Saba Geno Stuart Valente Olson, Joyce Sagen, L. John and Kay Van Dyke, Karleen Milford Olson Christopher Benz Henry C. Anderson Olson, Carrie Ann Sarr, Robert and Jean Van Maaren, Lynn and Robert Larry Olson James M. Bills Jan Lewis Osborne, Duane Schaffer, JoAnn Vieths, Doris LeAnne Osborne Richard R. Schaffer Ronald Vieths Overbeck, Theresa Schmidt, Steve and Kim Vilmo, Greg Duane L. Overbeck Arlin Rosalie Schmidt Linda Vilmo Panther, Mary and Michael Schroeder, Kathe Volker, JoAnn and Richard Dan Reeder Wesley Schroeder Brother and sister-in-law, Russell Paschke, Eleanore Schuhmacher, Kraig and Korla and Becky Dunford; niece, Carol Wesley Paschke Pam Jesse Dunford from multiple myeloma; our sons Jacob and Lucas Volker; Pearlman, Michael and Eileen Severson, Helene Rich's mother, Betty Volker Sandi Pearlman Larry Severson Watson, Judd and Jeanne Pearson , Byron and Dorene Shelton, J. Sheldon and Lydia Steve Siegle Linda Vilmo Jeff Shelton Weiss, Douglas and Nancy Peterson, Geraldine Shields, Robert and Marie Douglas Matzek David E. Peterson, kidney recipient Peg Shields - liver transplant 2008 Weixel, James and Barbara Shipton, Norma Jean Wulf Peterson, Steven Cynthia Patterson Shipton Cathy Peterson Wiebusch, Gloria Smith, Kenneth and Pammy My husband, J. Fredric Webusch, Phillips, Sherry Marion Smith recipient of 2 liver transplants and Paul Tine, my husband Smith, Wendell and Mary who blessed our lives with another Plantenberg, Marlene Margaret Smith Askew 27 years Mike Plantenberg Svangstu, Bob and Diane Wilder, Mary Polsfut, Shanon and Elaine Brian A. Svangstu My dad, Jim Jacobson Nancy Moen Svoboda, Steve and Julie Willis, Rita Pompeian, Aaron and Helen Steve Brosnan My husband, Harry G. Willis, Jr. Father and PaPa Ed Pompeian Taylor, Robin and Joe Lobl Witzig, Dr. Thomas and Diane Pompeian, Nick and Rochelle Joan Larson Raymond Jirele Ed Pompeian Thering, Curtis Wolff, Kenneth and Delores Rabb, Sarah Sue Thering Roger Moe Dick Rabb and Jan Lewis Thill, Bernard Wood, Darlene Raboin, Jeffrey and Sharon Donna Thill, Liela Thill Dick Brown Gail Craycroft Thronsedt, David and Sara Zampa, Melody Reller, Beth Lisa Thronsedt, our daughter Duane Burger Cathy Barthel Tjerstad, Mary Zurcher, Max and Devra Renner, Roger and Mary Jo David Tjerstad My heart donor, Patrick Zacher Steve Wilczak Tranberg, Judi ARROWHEAD BUILDERS SUPPLY Rist, Fred David Tranberg Tom (Sport) Dollins IV - heart Tanya Rist transplant 2001

6 GIFT OF LIFE TRANSPLANT HOUSE | 705 SECOND STREET SW | ROCHESTER, MN 55902 TRIBUTES

Aamot, Rick and Bonnie Connors, Richard Gillio, Vickie Logan Schonert Annette M. LeRoux My donor and brother, Matthew Allen, Carol and Okie Conti, Fred and Rose Gillio Carol Allen Mary Rose Conti Gillio, Viva Allen, Alexis Cooper, Alvin My daughter, Vickie Gillio's bone Daniel Hardy Al Cooper who received a kidney; his marrow transplant Altenburg, Andrew son, Jeremias Cooper, who donated Godsey, Valerie and James Megan Wannarka his kidney on 7.14.20. Staying at GOL My 11 yr anniversary of my was so helpful for us during his transplant; my sister, Jill Anonymous recovery. Michael Potts, Susanne Roxbury Goff, Korlyn and Dave Coughlin, Pauline and Clair Lisa Obermier Arndorfer, Robert Margaret Kleven Mayo Clinic Cancer Staff Gordon, Marjorie and Jerold M. Desrosier, Robert Our daughter, Alison Grossman, who Arnold, William and Joanne Tracy Gallo appreciates everything you do to Living non-directed kidney donor, help her Alicia Arnold; Sherry Johnson, DeVries, Robert and Peggy unknown donor Kathy Dykgraaf Goudie, Bill and Joyce Douglas Walz Baker, Mary Dietz, Charlene Georgianna F. Gibbons The hardworking staff at GOL who Hanson, Tanya always make my stay at GOL so Gary Melin Balbinot, Jodi and Jeff enjoyable and treat me like one of Mary Mikkola Hanson, Mary the staff. I look forward to seeing you Mary Dahlen Beadle, Roger and Ginny all in 6 months. Roger Beadle Harbold, Jan and Bob Hammernik Dobberke, Joyce and Dennis Dorene and Floyd Harbold Becker, Susan Gayla McGrail Todd Becker Hardesty, Glenn and Sandy Elsasser , Janet Glenn Hardesty Bennett, Harvey and Julia Charlene Dietz Nathan Wohlk Hardwig, Patricia Evans, Mark and Michele Jane Hense Benters, Elden and Kathleen All who have given life Elden Benters Hendrickson, Darlene Evans, Ione Dan Shaw Blessum, Jerry and Kathy All recipients who are so blessed to Jerry Blessum have the transplant house for Hengesh, Harry recuperation Vickie Gillio Bottolfson, Wayne Mary Benson Evenson, David and Shirley Holbach, Laurie and PJ Martha Evenson Murray Laurie Holbach-stem cell transplant Brinker, Ray and Joan Jennings 2013 Pasquale Iaderosa Fatigati, Carmine and Maria Caregivers Sharon and Art Carrizales Huber, Eldon and Maxine Buffington, Sharon and Katherine Cross Rhonda Huber Donor, Katherine Cross; caregiver, Friese, Jeff and Kammie Mary Alice Richardson; donor, Nelson Jeff Friese Hughes, Rhonda and John Michael Potts, Susanne Roxbury Porter; donor, Paulette Anderson Gaffey, Thomas and Lynne Byers, Keith and Connie Dr. Sylvester Sterioff Husman, Dale and Bonnie Jeanine Aspen Noah Knudson Garbers, Duane and Brenda Carey, Dan and Kate Kristin Westad - Duane's donor. Hyde, Peter and Valerie Steve Tarara Happy Birthday 9/23 Mother, Sue Carlson, Dianne and Darwin Gatzlaff, Jay and Diane The following were not included in our 2019 Wyatt Wade My wife, Dianne Carlson newsletter. Our deepest apologies. Christianson, Randall and Tami Gilje, Paul and Judith Tributes: Greg Vilmo Jenny Dalstad Nancy Dockter Heidi Leppala, Jan Manly, Churchwell, Eli and Susan Gillespie, Robert and Beverly Ron Knutson, LaVon Whipple Granddaughter, Ashlyn Nystuen Eli's kidney tranplant 11/16/2000 Memorials: Sue Beres Linda Vilmo

PHONE: 507-288-7470 | FAX: 507-281-9888 | [email protected] | WEBSITE: WWW.GIFT-OF-LIFE.ORG 7 SEPTEMBER TRIBUTES TRIBUTES Jeffries, Jane Matson, Melvin and Suzanne Stripling, Craig and Carol Ricky Fulks My kidney donor, Darren Matson 3 donors - Jeff Stripling, Jason Korns, Johnson, Mark and Leslie McGlothlin, Bernice and Katie Olson LuAnne Lemke Richard Greff Swenson, Dan and Bonnie Jopp, Annette Meek, Patricia Dan Swenson My 29-yr liver tx anniversary My bone marrow donor, Jim Klunder Taylor, John and Karen Kenworthy, Wendy and in honor of me. John Taylor Lynnette Nash Meeks, Tom and Ann Thering, Curtis Kessler, Tiffany and Kurt Matt Heisler Tammy Schefers, liver donor; Mayo Tiffany Kessler Minnich, Lois staff; Gift of Life; the Life to Live Liver Transplant Pioneers Kilpatrick, Dr. Patrick and Diana Chris Murray, my donor Adrienne Pompeian and family Monk, Mary Ann Thurow, Robert and Colleen Susan Monk as donor My daughter Melissa Lyle who Knudson, Rebecca and Les donated her kidney to me Noah Knudson Mraz, Sharon Roger Mraz Tostenrud, Steven and Pauline Koetter, Mike and Mary Teresa Hoff Michael Koetter (recipient); Ralph Myers, Mary and Tim Koetter (donor) Donor, Darlene Perkins Tremmel, Anthony and Mary Jo In appreciation for everyone at Gift Konetski, Mary Nielsen, Dawn and Steve of Life Susan E. Lam Dawn M. Nielsen Trosine, Karin Krebsbach, Keith and Sherri O'Keefe, Mike and Donna Gene Trosine Amanda Krebsbach Vierling Mike O'Keefe Van Dyke, Karleen Kruse, Lynn and Ray Olson, Carrie Ann Lori Lynn Lange My son and donor, Steven McCluskey Annette Odlund, Larry Olson's daughter and kidney donor Vilmo, Greg Lassiter, Amy Allen Watanabe, Bennie Allen, Daniel Hardy Ortega, Arthur and Kim Klepetka Dianna Dotson, Ginger Holmes, LeDuc, Jacob Robert Ortega Jayne Pompeian Gary LeDuc Packard, Richard and Linda Wahlberg, Richard and Dana Lee, Jerry and Annette Christine Packard Stevens My loving husband, Rick Wahlberg Annette Lee Palko, Greg and Connie Weathers, Thomas and Mary Lewis, Justin The Mayo Stem Cell Transplant Team My wife and caregiver, Mary John & Christina Livengood , Sarah Patrick, Dr. Herbert and Paula Weathers Rabb, Aaron Pompeian, Dan and Adam (AJ) Patrick Weishaupt, Delores Pat Cruser, Pat Monplaiser, Ed and Pavlicek, Geraldine Don Schmidgall Jean Ordal, Gene and Connie Gwynn, My son, Dan who was recipient of a Wells, Roger and Carole Jim and LeAnn Meservy, John and Liver Transplant Sue Roise, MeriLee Henning, Bob and Daughter Emily Buck PKD donor & Lynn VanMaaren, Okie and Carol Peak, Frank and Renee Sandy Toomey my donor Allen, Paul and Sandi Leonard Greg Selley Whitbeck, Ronald Ligon, Jack Peshut, Annie Myself, Ronald E. Whitbeck. I was a Charles Ligon All Who Stay At GOL guest in Jan 2013 Liverman, Hillary Pompeian, Nick and Rochelle White, Jana Daniel Hardy Kidney Donor, Aaron Pompeian Becky McGuire Logie, Al and Pam Chambers Quam, James Williams, Ken and Elaine Al Logie Jean Kohut Lisa Williams, donor of 9-yr anniversary kidney tx Lohmeyer, Charles and Ellen Ridgeway, Lowell and Pamela Wayne Lohmeyer Kristen Oesterreich Williams, Lisa Ken and Elaine Williams Loven, Marlys Schroeder, Kathe Sheldon's donor and brother, Doug Wesley Schroeder's donors Wirth, Sue Andrew Wirth Lynn, Rachel Schultz, Sara Heidi Nauman and Family Ron and Chris Schultz Young, Robert Heart transplant 17 years out MacDonald, Jean Stewart, Ron and Sally Mike Scheuerman Ron Stewart Zarnott, Wayne and Marilyn Arlen Ostermann Marso, Bettie Striefel, Randy and Karen LeAnn Caulfield, double transplant Randy Striefel Zoller, Terry patient 1988 Becky McGuire

8 GIFT OF LIFE TRANSPLANT HOUSE | 705 SECOND STREET SW | ROCHESTER, MN 55902 CONTRIBUTIONS Anderson, James Hahn, Carol and Jess Ordal, Ed and Jean Anderson, Lenora Hansch, Dennis and Elizabeth Pesta, Timothy and Patricia Anderson, John S. and Mary Lea Harris, Richard Peterson, David and Linda Andrews, John and Mary Lynn Herlich, Phil and Stephanie Peterson, Kevin Anonymous Donors Hesse, James and Colleen Pham, Truc and Hoa Bartram, Jerry and Regina Hobernicht, Peggy and Howard Phillips, Frank Batten, Bruce and Christine Horst, Robert and Joan Rajtar, Leanne and Richard Bauzenberger, Barbara and Richard Idzorek, Edward and Julie Randby, Patricia Befort, Zonda Jennings, Wayne and Lynne Rathmann, Larry and Linda Bernstein, Rhona Johnson , Daniel Regan, Gary and Cheryl Bisek, Jerome and Bernice Johnson, Clayton and Yvonne Regan, Adrian Books, David and Bonnie Kasenberg, Darlene and Tom Reynolds, Randy and Sheri Bostwick, Jonathan and Pamela Kennel, Lois Rietsema, Lynette and Ron Brown, Margaret and Michael Kent, Andrew and Susan Roehrick, Gary and Shelly Burrows, Darlene Kepnes, Judy and Joel Rogers-Hartl, Laurie Buzzell, Terry and Kathy Koehn, Lynn and Vickie Saba, Michael Carlson, Robert and Pamela Krom, Drs. Ruud and Jeannette Sanders, Richard and Beverly Carroll, Russell and Catherine Kukla, Dr. Aleksandra and Boguslaw Schmitt, Susan Clausen, Janelle and Mark Lang, Victoria and Greg Schmitz, Dolores Coert, Rebecca Larson, Jeff and Sandra Schroedermeier, Glenda and Loren Conroy, Lindsay LaValley, Richard and Lyn Sciallis, Mary Cope, John and Linda Lee, Betty Sieg, Bernette Courcy, Lori Lee, Forrest and Mary Silcox, Janessa and Erik Davis, Christine and Pamela Lees, James and Phyllis Slarks, James Dehler, Robert and Joann Lerberg, Jim and Diane Smith, Brook and Jean Dennis, Kathy and Charlie Levene, J. Scott and Robyn Smith, Richard E. and Elizabeth Depot, Barry and Laurie Liggett, Tracy Smith, Bob and Sue Dollerschell, Allen and Marcia Marshall, Raymond and Jacquelyn Sparks, Thomas and Gerda Dreher, Eugene and Heidi McFarland, Thomas Strohbusch, Nancy and Mark Eggler, Burnell McIntire, Sandra and James Stubbs, Frank and Tom Lee Erickson, Beth and Kevin McKinnie, Andre Sweeney, Brenda and Dan Finger, Allen and Rita Meixner, Judith Swenson, David and Nancy Fleet, Merlyn and Mary Metzger, Morris and Tonya Therkilsen, Randy and Maureen Frankhart, David and Patricia Michels, Karen Viker, LeeAnne Fraser, Kyle and M. Cathy Mindl, Timothy Webber, Gray and Patricia Freerking, Russell and Marie Mindl, Julie Win, Be Gassman, Philip and Brigitte Moon, Frank and Betty Winters, Mark and Judy Goodsen, Kimberly Moran, Debra and Frank WOODS & ASSOCIATES INC. Griffin, Dave Mraz, Sharon Wynne, Julie Grimsrud, Roger and Olive Nelson, Travis Yaldo, Isam and Vivian Gwiazdzienski, Dianna and Roger Oien, Jeff Zabel, Glen and Eileen Haggard, Donna Olhausen, Dennis and LeAnn

PHONE: 507-288-7470 | FAX: 507-281-9888 | [email protected] | WEBSITE: WWW.GIFT-OF-LIFE.ORG 9 SHARING HOPE IN PAINTED ROCKS

Lizete came to Gift of Life Transplant House with commemorative of her mom’s liver transplant day, 2019. She will continue coming to Minnesota her mom in May of 2019. When she arrived at May 5, 2019. She then began painting images she every summer to visit her mom and is so grateful Gift of Life Transplant House, her mother noticed found online, soon creating a trail of rocks on the she had a safe place to heal. “I am glad to call the several painted rocks around the house and thought front porch. Gift of Life house my home away from home when it’d be something fun for Lizete to do. “My inspiration to make these rocks was my mother my mother has appointments. Everyone is very Lizete and her sister took turns staying overnight and I know they bring her so much happiness,” welcoming and the staff is amazing. The Gift of Life at the hospital with her mom. “It wasn’t until my Lizete said. She created the rocks for people to house gave me and my family so much comfort. I mother got her new liver and was discharged to enjoy, whether they find one they want to take was scared and worried about my mother and just the Gift of Life that I began painting the rocks.” or just enjoy them on the Gift of Life Transplant being at the house had such a warm and comforting While staying at the Edward and Jayne Pompeian House grounds. feeling because I knew that everyone there was going through something similar and now I hope Home (705 House), she went to the craft room and Lizete is in her final year of nursing school in El found paint brushes and paint. The first rock was that anyone that walks to the Gift of Life can spot a Paso, Texas after putting her school on pause in painted rock and have it brighten their day.”

WELCOME NEW STAFF:

ASHLEY GRANT NICOLA CAVANAGH TRAVIS NIEMEIER Receptionist Receptionist Night Supervisor

House Happenings

FACILITIES OPERATIONS NEW MATTRESSES have been delivered to our Edward and Jayne OUR MENNONITE VOLUNTEERS continue to cheerfully support Pompeian Home, thanks to the Special Appeal from our 2019 Golf the operations at both 705 and 724, cleaning, doing laundry and even Tournament, a grant from the Carl and Verna Schmidt Fund and generous entertaining us with their lovely harmonious music as they work. donations. The mattresses had last been replaced in 2015. The new mattresses have been appreciated by all – thank you for making this OCCUPANCY at Gift of Life Transplant House has varied, rising to possible. MATTRESSES will be replaced next year at the Anne and pre-COVID levels and dipping to just under 70%. Our commitment is to Henry Zarrow Home. remain open no matter what our occupancy may be.

A NEW RETAINING WALL at 705 will be built along 1st Street SW, again thanks to a generous donation!

A NEW ROOF and dormers were replaced at the Edward and Jayne Pompeian Home this summer, thanks to a generous donation from the Tisi Family Foundation. And a special thanks to API Supply, who donated the use of a lift truck for the entire project!

10 GIFT OF LIFE TRANSPLANT HOUSE | 705 SECOND STREET SW | ROCHESTER, MN 55902 ADJUST YOUR TRAJECTORY

“I am now the caretaker of my organs. The way have to choose life.” I show gratitude is by taking care of them," Dual rejection was not something Amanda ever Amanda, a double organ transplant recipient imagined she would have to go through, and and guest of Gift of Life Transplant House not something she wanted to share, especially shared recently. with fellow transplant recipients. So many A competitive athlete for most of her life, emotions were running through her mind, fear Amanda often felt fearless. When she went into and uncertainty being the most prominent. But kidney failure and her life was threatened after being diagnosed with double diabetes - a rare " There's so many things you don't professor, veteran, and pastor to her “kidney condition where she was diagnosed with both expect, like the relationships you sisters”- two ladies she bonded and connected type 1 and type 2 diabetes, Amanda said it was build. I honestly think I'll befriends with while staying at Gift of Life Transplant the most terrifying, yet humbling, experience with them for the rest of our lives." House over their shared experience. “If you she had. With a life threatening diagnosis, it don’t know what this world is like, you can’t sparked a reminder that we are truly human even begin to imagine...There’s so many - realizing how often we take for granted the her motto pushed her forward and she was things you don’t expect, like the relationships thought that our bodies will be here forever. determined to find her new trajectory. you build. I honestly think I’ll be friends with Amanda had been a regular blood donor Gift of Life Transplant House was the safe them for the rest of our lives.” throughout high school and college and made place she did not know she needed. Amanda Amanda was inspired to share her story to shed sure she had “checked the box” to be identified shares, “We can be honest here - it’s okay light on the side of transplantation that is more as an organ donor. So, when she received her to have good days and bad days. It’s a safe difficult to talk about. She hopes to encourage diagnosis, it was a shock to her, her friends place to be vulnerable and be open.” She also more compassion to all those working on and family. Her health rapidly declined, and in revels in the community and support that is the transplant team as patients navigate the November of 2019, Amanda received a double undeniable at the house, “Your story is yours; many unknowns, inspire gratitude to those organ transplant – a pancreas and kidney. it allows a connection as humans. Our stories blessed with their gift of life and tasked as the are different, but the feelings are similar.” Anyone who has been part of a transplant caretaker of a new organ(s), and remind us that Patients can connect and comfort one another journey understands the power of resiliency. we have the ability to enrich and change the after difficult news, rejoice in good news and After long days at the clinic, learning that going lives of everyone we encounter. She reminds support each other through navigating all the home is not an option, receiving a secondary us to choose life and adjust our trajectory to unknowns that come with transplantation. diagnosis that stutters progress, Amanda says align with what we want our lives to look it is important to hang on to the words and the Amanda has met people from all walks of like amidst our new and often unexpected support that bring hope. For Amanda, those life with whom she never would have crossed circumstances. words were “You have to want this life; you paths; from dialysis with a chef, Chinese

ROD ANDERSON MEMORIAL AWARD 2020 The Rod Anderson Award is presented at our has spent many hours volunteering as office Annual Golf Tournament to a volunteer who support and is willing to help in anyway embodies a few of the characteristics of Rod, needed! Originally from Germany, Elke is an an avid supporter, board member and board adventurous soul who has traveled to many president of Gift of Life Transplant House. places around the world. These characteristics include, selflessness, Our gratitude for Elke cannot be put into humility and kindness. words! It was an honor to present her with This year, Julie Anderson, Rod's wife, this award. Thank you for all you do. We presented the award to Elke, who started don't know where we would be without you! volunteering with us in 2018. Since then, she

PHONE: 507-288-7470 | FAX: 507-281-9888 | [email protected] | WEBSITE: WWW.GIFT-OF-LIFE.ORG 11 Meet Otto & Veronica

Veronica Marjamaa thought she was Stem Cell Treatment which is two stem cell especially with the guests & caregivers feeling fine when she headed to her annual treatments 60 days apart. Her first stem here." She goes on to say “everyone is physical in the first month of the year. cell transplant was on July 27 with her willing to share their ups and downs and However, her doctor came back with 2nd on September 28. She felt good after tears and laughter." tests which revealed high calcium and the first transplant. Although there were Otto has been Veronica's rock during this instructed her to go straight to the Fargo zero cancer cells remaining, the tandem time. They've been married for 47 years Hospital. Upon meeting with a doctor at would provide 75% more longevity to her and have supported one another through the Fargo Hospital, she learned that she remission. everything. Prior to Veronica's diagnosis, was diagnosed with multiple myeloma. She After experiencing the first transplant, she Otto had just recovered from his own soon began chemotherapy at the cancer gained confidence and comfort coming cancer in 2019. As her caregiver, Otto says center, knowing she was in good hands. back to Mayo and Gift of Life Transplant she has been an easy patient to care for. Her trusted doctor soon recommended House for the second time. She and Otto While they've felt comfort at Gift of Life Mayo Clinic for a stem cell treatment after knew what the process was going to be like 5 months of chemotherapy. Transplant House during Veronica's and had a good idea of how she would feel transplant journey, especially in the time Veronica and her husband, Otto, heard after the second transplant. They also knew of COVID-19, they are eager to get back to about Gift of Life Transplant House when the expectations of Gift of Life Transplant their home in Detroit Lakes and continue they first arrived at Mayo and met with House, and looked forward to coming back their preparations for the winter months. their social worker. They decided Gift of to the comradery. Veronica appreciates the Life was the place they wanted to stay. support during her recovery, "It’s been very They keep each other in good spirits and are grateful for everyone they have met and Veronica was the recipient of a Tandem nice here. I feel comfortable. It makes me feel more at home than a hospital or hotel supported during their stay.

Est. 1984 Rochester, MN

12 GIFT OF LIFE TRANSPLANT HOUSE | 705 SECOND STREET SW | ROCHESTER, MN 55902 trails TRAILS4TRANSPLANTS transplants •GOES VIRTUAL• I will admit when I first heard 6-year ride, covering 2,000 impressive 2,663 horse miles that T4T was going virtual, I miles with a party in Rochester, (132 miles) had been ridden thought – “Well, now that is MN! by 74 individuals and $25,000 the kind of horseback riding The 2020 ride was to have was raised! I can do!” But I soon learned been held in Pine County, Here are some “thoughts from that this committed and MN, but with the restrictions the trails”: “My life has been highly creative group had a imposed because of COVID, spared because someone chose bit more sophisticated plan in the organizers decided to to be a donor. Participating mind than my idea of a coin- ask small groups of riders to in Trails4Transplants is a operated pony in front of the document their rides. 5 groups way to honor my donor and grocery store! of riders formed up from East help countless others who are Trails4Transplants is a long- Central Minnesota, Northwest still waiting for a life-saving distance, multiple-week long Minnesota, Mandan, North transplant!” DH, T4T Rider, trail ride to raise awareness Dakota, Duluth, Minnesota Volunteer, Grateful Liver about organ, eye and tissue and St. Anthony, North Recipient and Former Gift of donation. T4T also raises Dakota, with names like: Life Transplant House guest donations for Gift of Life Green Scarf Bandits, North We are so honored to call T4T Transplant House. In 2019, Woods Group, Hille Group, our friends and partners! the group celebrated the and East Central Outlaws! culmination of their goal of a And at the conclusion an

2021 Vision 4 All Ride TOTAL LENGTH: 109 Miles WHEN: May 21-29, 2021 WHERE: St. Croix to Pine City, MN

VISIT THE WEBSITE FOR MORE DETAILS: trails4transplants.org/the-ride

PHONE: 507-288-7470 | FAX: 507-281-9888 | [email protected] | WEBSITE: WWW.GIFT-OF-LIFE.ORG 13 Rainbow over Gift of Life Transplant House and Mayo Clinic captured by a guest.

Sophie, Maddie, Abigail Tami making ribbons and Girl Scout leader, for our September Heidi, donating boxes of Tributes. cookies.

Painted rocks behind the Anne & Henry Zarrow Home.

Sue and her mother Shirley came to bring $250 worth of donations in memory of Sue's father Founders of Thesis Brewery presenting a check from their "For Members of our community the Good & Thirsty" Campaign. have donated many masks Gift of Life Golf for our guests. Tournament

Henry and Leo bring treats Gavin donating pop Our facilities manager, Ladd, to remember our founder, Ed tabs during his annual giving a gift of appreciation Pompeian, on his birthday. appointments. to API Supply.

Darryn

Past guests, Jamee and New mattresses at the Edward Members of the Zumbro Lutheran Ray donating supplies from & Jayne Pompeian Home made Confirmation group spreading our wish list. possible by donations! positivity with sidewalk chalk.

Terry and Rose Gift of Life Golf Angie and Eric donating Tournament supplies on Valentine's Day. donating supplies.

*Not all pictures were taken during the time of COVID-19. Thank you to our Corporate Partners for making this year a success!

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Est. 1984 Rochester, MN www.linkedin.com/company/gift-of-life-transplant-house/ Gift of Life Gift of Life Inc. Transplant House 705 Second Street, Southwest Mission Statement 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 2020 CORPORATE PARTNERS

LEGACY INVESTING FRIEND MAYO SPECIALTY PHARMACY

ENRICHING

GIFT OF LIFE TRANSPLANT HOUSE BOARD OF DIRECTORS AND STAFF

Executive Committee Honorary Lifetime Board Members Resident Night Manager President - P.J. (Phillip) Calkins Mary Davie 705 House: Val Koehn Past President - Joe Forrer Sylvester Sterioff, MD 724 House: Travis Niemeier Vice President - Adrienne Pompeian Greg Warner Secretary - Brian Sheehan Maintenance Lead Treasurer - Joe Forrer Gift of Life Transplant House Staff Cory Cody Emeritus - Nick Pompeian Executive Director Facilities Staff Emeritus - Jayne Pompeian Mary Wilder Bob Himmer, Mitch Yennie Facilities Manager Lead Housekeeper Board Members Ladd Baldus Pollie Goodman Arlene Bahr Operations Manager Housekeepers Dr. Andrew Bentall Kari Wedeking Kathy Gilbertson, Kyle Swanson, Connie Tina Bro Thedens Administrative & Volunteer Coordinator Matt Christensen Tami Konakowitz Cyle Erie Marketing Event Coordinator Lori Ewoldt Receptionists Miranda Halling Ben Alker, Nicola Cavanagh, Ashley Grant Dr. Saad J. Kenderian Data Entry Clerk David Liebow Bookkeeper JoAnn Volker Paul Mensing Mary Dahlen Dr. Thomas Schwab