Tucker Hosts Fundraiser for Liver Transplant Patient

This weekend Tucker residents are gathering to support a Dekalb woman in need of a liver transplant. The community is hosting a fundraiser for Andrea Johnson, a single mother of three, who was diagnosed last year with Hepatitis C. The disease, which Johnson’s doctors believe has been dormant in her body for nearly 30 years, has caused severe liver damage.

Johnson was taken to the emergency room Monday evening after experiencing complications with memory due to her damaged liver, and she remains in the hospital.

Frequent hospital visits such as these have created rising costs for Johnson, who recently lost her job. Gina Brody, Johnson’s sister and longtime friend Cathy Russ have organized the event in an effort to help Johnson cover the nearly $30,000 costs of post transplant medication; Johnson currently sits on the waiting list for a transplant. The Georgia Transplant Foundation will match dollar-for-dollar up to the first $10,000 raised; Johnson has until Nov. 1 to receive matched funds.

Despite the hardships, Brody said her sister remains strong, “I’ve seen her endure things that would cause most people to faint.”

Johnson’s fundraiser will be a family affair with jars of Johnson’s homemade salsa for sale as well as a silent auction, face painting, music and food. “To make this a success it’s taken a community,” said Russ, who was overwhelmed by the level of support. Everyone from local businesses such as hair salons to major chain restaurants in the area have contributed.

The fundraiser will take place June 18 at the Elks Club, 1775 Montreal Road from 2 p.m. -8 p.m. Tickets are $10 for adults and $5 for children and include both entry and a BBQ plate.

For more information, contact Gina Brody at 770-216-1247.