COTA For Donald's Liver

Our Story

Our family member and friend, Donald Asher, is battling end stage liver disease due to a genetic condition. This page is dedicated to sharing his journey and supporting the COTA For Donald’s Liver campaign.

Donald was born with a single-cell genetic condition called Alpha-1 Anatrypsin Deficiency, which overtime attacks and ultimately causes liver failure. He received this diagnosis on February 1, 2022. In the spring, he began having weekly paracentesis procedures at the hospital. Each week, 7 liters of fluid is removed from his abdomen. This process will continue for the foreseeable future until he receives a new liver.

On July 20, 2022, Donald and Trina had a consultation with the (outstanding) organ transplant team at Indiana University Health University Hospital in Indianapolis, Indiana. Donald underwent testing to complete his evaluation process and on August 23, 2022, he was medically approved to be placed on the liver transplant list! 

Even though Donald has health insurance coverage, medical bills are expected to grow and will substantially increase in the future. The Asher’s are looking at future costs of doctor visits, travel expenses, a major surgery, hospital stays, weekly post-transplant follow ups, as well as crucial anti-rejection medication, which Donald will be required to take for the rest of his life.

As all of this began to unfold, a close friend connected them with a non-profit organization called COTA. COTA exists to help children and young adults who need a life-saving transplant by providing fundraising assistance and family support. COTA’s services are free of charge and 100% of ALL donations given to COTA in honor of Donald will go directly to transplant related expenses (and are also tax deductible to the fullest extent of the law). The Asher’s are immensely blessed to have the support of COTA at this time!

Donald’s entire life has been devoted to his family; especially his wife, Trina, and to raising their 3 wonderful children, Hannah, Evan, and Nolan. For many years, Donald dedicated a majority of his time coaching youth football in Brown County, Indiana, focusing on helping kids excel in sports and serving as a positive role model in the community.

For those who feel led to rally around Donald through his fight, please know how much your support means to Donald and his family.

Follow along with Donald and Trina during this journey by visiting their facebook page, www.facebook.com/COTAForDonaldsLiver (a facebook account is not required to view the page).