Fundraiser for Kaleb Caufield – Kidney Transplant & Lifesaving Medical Care

Kaleb Caufield, a resident of Billings, Montana, is in urgent need of a kidney transplant. His father, Kirby Caufield, is a compatible donor and has graciously agreed to provide this life-saving gift. Because Billings has limited medical facilities capable of handling his complex case, Kaleb must travel to the University of Utah Kidney and Liver Transplant Center, where he will also receive essential post-operative dialysis and follow-up care.

Kaleb’s medical decline began suddenly. In January 2024, Kaleb became severely ill after contracting a strain of influenza. This caused major swelling and rapid weight gain. A routine visit to an eye doctor changed everything—the doctor immediately warned that Kaleb was likely experiencing either a serious heart problem or uncontrolled diabetes. Kaleb went straight to the hospital, where doctors discovered the full severity of the situation:

His blood pressure had risen so high that it caused permanent heart damage.

His kidneys were failing, and he was diagnosed with Type 2 diabetes.

His vision rapidly deteriorated, and he has since undergone two eye surgeries, losing most of his sight.

While the damage to his heart is no longer worsening, what has already occurred cannot be reversed. His kidneys, however, continue to decline—dropping from 30% function at the beginning of treatment to only 9% today. Kaleb has finally reached a point of stability where he is eligible for a kidney transplant, the only path forward.

Despite everything, Kaleb remains a goofy, fun-loving man with a contagious smile and unwavering positivity. His energy and humor brighten the lives of everyone who knows him. Standing faithfully by his side is his loving wife, Veronica, with whom he shares deep love and an unshakeable partnership. Together, they are facing this challenge with courage and hope.

Estimated Costs

Kidney Transplant: $220,000 (Kaleb is responsible for 20%)
Medications: $50,000+, with required post-transplant medications including:

Tacrolimus – approx. $1,000/month

Myfortic – over $800/month without insurance

Prednisone – essential immune-suppressing medication

Valcyte (valganciclovir) – antiviral for CMV prevention

Bactrim – antibiotic for infection prevention

Fluconazole (Diflucan) – antifungal, $23 per tablet, quantity varies

Multiple other medications will be needed; these are just a few. These medications are not optional—they are required for survival and to prevent organ rejection and infection after the transplant.

Additional Out-of-Pocket Expenses:

Travel frequently between Montana and Utah: $100 to $200 per trip, with numerous trips needed, but the exact number is unknown. Repeated trips for up to a year

Temporary lodging: The average cost for a one-bedroom B&B for up to three months varies widely, but can range from approximately $4,500 to over $35,000

Special renal diet: $350 per month for a single person

Time away from work for both Kaleb and his caregivers: too many factors involved to determine cost.

After the transplant, Kaleb will be required to stay within 30 minutes of the hospital for ongoing dialysis, monitoring, and post-operative care.

Dates for the transplant are TBD, pending the acquisition of necessary funding.

We are seeking financial assistance to help cover these overwhelming costs and give Kaleb the chance to continue living his life fully—surrounded by love, laughter, and the support of those who care deeply for him.

Your contribution can make a profound difference in the life of a man who continues to radiate positivity, even while facing the toughest battle of his life. Any amount helps, No matter how small, Please assist us and share this link 

Thank you from the bottom of our hearts for your consideration and generosity.