Helping Tony Get to Mayo Clinic

In October, my wife Michelle and I are travelling from New Zealand to Mayo Clinic in Rochester, Minnesota, seeking answers to some increasingly complex medical problems.

In 2012 I became critically ill with severe gallstone pancreatitis, spending 56 days in ICU and losing around 90% of my pancreas. More recently I have suffered repeated serious gastrointestinal bleeds caused by major problems with the veins around my digestive system.

Earlier this year a stent was placed in my portal/mesenteric venous system. Unfortunately, I have since experienced repeated high fevers and hospital admissions, with concern that the stent may be infected and partially thrombosed. I am currently completing six weeks of daily IV antibiotics.

Mayo Clinic has accepted me for a comprehensive specialist evaluation. The estimated cost for just the first week of appointments, tests and scans is already over NZ$50,000, before any treatment, flights or accommodation.

We hadn't intended to fundraise, but many friends have kindly asked how they can help. We have created this page for anyone who would like to contribute. There is absolutely no expectation to give — we are incredibly grateful for everyone's support, prayers and encouragement.

Tony & Michelle