Question re: assistance for donor expenses

[heatherway30]

http://helpmedonoatemykidney.chipin.com/kidney-donors-travel-expenses

I am able and willing to donate to a gentleman asap. His kidney function is at 8% and he is in dire need of a transplant.  The hospital however does not allow the recipients to pay a dime.  I have searched all over the net and this was all I could find to possibly raise money for my travel, lodging, and post-transplant care,,,  any leads appreciated!

[Fr Pat]

     According to U.S. law, the recipient (if willing and able) may legally reemburse the donor for lost wages during surgery and recovery, and for travel, lodging and other expenses directly related to the donation. You may not legally make any financial profit. Perhaps there was a misunderstanding with the hospital? It is true that the recipient may not "pay" you for the kidney, but the recipient CAn reemburse for losses, and is free to organize fund-raising events, etc. for that purpose.
    best wishes,
   Fr. Pat

[Michael]

Where are you located? Where are you trying to donate?

[Scott337]

Some transplant centers have grant-programs or financial programs that will reimburse donors for some related expenses (each is a little different).  You should check with the transplant coordinator or social worker attached to the program.  Part of their jobs are to make certain to provide for the donor's education, informed consent, mitigation of financial hardships, etc....   Additionally, many States have enacted enabling legislation for a one-time tax deduction for donors which is directly linked to lost wages, personal costs associated with the donation/surgery, etc... not all States have adopted this, but those who have are each a bit different from each other.  You could also look at the Federal IRS "Living Organ Donor Tax Credit Act of 2009" at  http://thomas.loc.gov/cgi-bin/query/z?c111:H.R.218:      

Often, recipient families will organize fund-raisers for just this type of assistance to donors.  Good luck and I hope you're able to find some help.  

Scott  

[rtufts]

My husband needs a liver transplant and the University of Minnesota and the Mayo Clinics both have scholarships available for donors lodging, meals and possibly transportation.  Here is the U's phone numbers for more info 612-625-5115 or 800-328-5465 and their website http://www.uofmmedicalcenter.org/Specialties/LiverTransplant/Livingliverdonorprogram/index.htm   I looked but this info may be in the printed material we got.