Families lose trust after transplant foundation closure

OKLAHOMA CITY (KFOR) — It's been nearly a year since the National Foundation for Transplants closed. The organization helped patients come up with the necessary funds needed to get on a transplant list.

Almost a year later, some Integris Health patients feel like they can't trust another organization after the closure.

"We just don't have the trust to do that all over again," said Pamela O'Brien, whose husband needs a kidney transplant.

For nearly two years, Eric O'Brien has been waiting for a kidney transplant.

The family had almost $5,000 in their account with the National Foundation for Transplants, but that funding disappeared when the foundation suddenly closed last year.

"Nobody got their money back and everybody was just out that money," said O'Brien.

The closure left the O'Brien's feeling uneasy about raising money with a different organization.

"We don't trust anymore. The hospital wants you to... have an organization. But we've said we'll raise some money ourselves one way or another. If he can get on the list, I will have the money.... I'll figure it out," said O'Brien.

News 4 reached out to Integris for a comment on how the year has been without the NFT.

We continue to work closely with our patients during their transplant process. Since the closure of the National Foundation for Transplants in May 2024, we have added 207 patients to the national transplant waiting list. There are multiple mechanisms for patients who need additional funds to support a successful transplant. The specific avenue may be different depending upon the patient’s unique needs. We are here for each individual patient, providing guidance and support throughout their transplant journey.

Integris Health

The O'Brien's are now raising money on their own, but are still scarred from the sudden loss less than a year ago.

"To have that money ripped away was just horrible. Not just from us, but from everybody. Like, there's so many emotions that go into that," said Pamela O'Brien.

O'Brien said the family has a donation account set up for "Eric O'Brien" at City National Bank, if you'd like to help the family.