A GoFundMe has been set up for a former Kelowna resident, who was a staple of the city's softball community.
Photo Credit: FacebookTroy Wanner spent a lot of his time in Kelowna playing ball at the Mission Softball Complex.
More than 10 years ago, Troy Wanner received a heart transplant at the age of 29 after an unknown virus attacked his heart.
The transplant allowed him to continue living a normal live, a devoted husband and father to his wife Jessica and three children, Nixon, Madi and Jacob.
Photo Credit: GoFundMeJessica, Troy and the three kids.
However, his health took a turn for the worse about two months ago, a short time after moving his family to Edmonton, and Wanner began having difficulties breathing along with swelling in his stomach.
After 10 years of good health, Wanner’s body began to reject his heart and he was immediately admitted into the hospital, where he’s been for the past 47 days.
Photo Credit: GoFundMe
“Nothing has worked so far and now his kidneys aren't functioning as they should,” explained Wanner’s sister Jena Gidney, who started the GoFundMe efforts.
“The doctors are telling us to be realistic and that there is a possibility that Troy will not get better. I refuse to listen to this, this is my brother they are talking about.”
Photo Credit: FacebookTroy and his sister Jena
During his time in hospital, Wanner had continued to work remotely as the general manager of an Edmonton restaurant, but had to stop a few days ago as he's no longer strong enough to work.
Meanwhile, Jessica has had to go on compassionate leave from her job in order to take care of the kids and spend time with Wanner in hospital.
Photo Credit: GoFundMe
According to Gidney, the hospital and insurance will cover part of the cost of the drugs that Troy will need on a continuous basis.
However, there are also some very expensive and experimental drugs that the family will need to pay for as medical professionals try to find a solution that works.
Photo Credit: GoFundMe
“Nobody likes to have to ask for help, but it’s currently gotten to that point now that both Troy and Jessica can’t work,” said Gidney.
“Therefore, we are calling upon all family, friends, co-workers, fellow transplant recipients and anyone else that feels it in their heart to help by contributing financially.”
Photo Credit: GoFundMe
Gidney says every little bit helps and can make a huge difference into relieving the financial burdens that this young family will be facing as Wanner fights for his life.
To donate to the GoFundMe, which has raised more than $16,000 so far, you can click this link.
Photo Credit: GoFundMe
There will also be a fundraiser put on for Wanner at the Kettle Valley Public on Main, in Kelowna's Mission, on Saturday, Aug. 11 at 6 p.m.
Not many details have been released, but you can keep an eye on the Kettle Valley Public on Main Facebook page for all the information as it's made available.
