William Meck IV

William Meck   

Transplant Type:   Liver

What if you were living on borrowed time? 

William is described by those closest to him as a deeply gentle and kind man, someone who makes an impact on everyone he meets.  He is a skilled woodturner, painter, musician, loving husband and grandfather. William even turned his passion for woodturning into a small business making beautiful cedar carvings to be sold in local shops. William would often be found partaking in one of his many hobbies, or maintaining the garden and property of his lush Arkansas home where he lives with his wife, Tracy. This was until William was diagnosed with liver and kidney failure and all his passions had to come to a halt.    

In November 2022, William was hospitalized and told by doctors that his previous diagnosis,’ from years prior, of Nonalcoholic Fatty Liver Disease (NAFLD) and Cirrhosis had worsened. Immediately following this hospital visit William began regular hospital visits to drain fluid from his body. These hospital visits will remain necessary until he is able to receive the liver and kidney transplants needed to save his life.  

Since William’s condition has worsened, he is no longer able to work. His wife Tracy serves as his fulltime caretaker. William is a self-proclaimed foodie and says that it has been difficult to adjust to the many dietary limitations. He muses that Tracy has used her prowess in the kitchen to recreate many beloved recipes within Williams dietary restrictions. William is extremely grateful to have Tracy by his side during this difficult time. William is also surrounded by family and friends that want to do everything in their power to help him get well. 

Unfortunately, William’s hope for a new life comes at a very high price. 

The average liver and kidney transplant costs more than 1 million dollars. Even with the support of health insurance, William still faces significant medical expenses related to the transplant. Post-surgery he will require lifetime follow-up care and daily anti-rejection medications. These medications are very costly, and they are as important to his survival as the transplant itself.  

While William and Tracy love their home and the land around it, they live over ninety miles from William’s doctors and transplant care team. Following his liver and kidney transplant, they will need to stay in long-term housing near the hospital for three months at a minimum. The regular travel to see doctors and the additional expense of long-term housing near the hospital add to the couple’s financial strain.

You can help by making a tax-deductible donation to the National Foundation for Transplants in honor of William.  

If you'd prefer to send your gift by mail, please send it to the National Foundation for Transplants, 3249 W. Sarazen’s Circle, Suite 100, Memphis, TN 38125.  Please be sure to write "in honor of William Meck” in the memo line.

Thank you for your generosity!

Transplant Center:   UAMS Medical Center (Transplant Center)

If you have any questions about The National Foundation for Transplants, feel free to contact the staff at 800-489-3863.