LI Community Raises More Than $8K For Man In Need Of Liver Transplant

LINDENHURST, NY — A Lindenhurst man in need of a liver transplant is receiving an abundance of community support.

As of Wednesday, friends and family had raised $8,950 through a GoFundMe — in a single day — to support Dan Engelhardt, 44, who is suffering from liver failure.

Mike McNamara, co-creator of the fundraiser, wrote that all money raised will go toward Engelhardt's medical expenses.

He, Engelhardt, and the two other co-creators of the fundraiser have all been in a "tight knit" group since elementary school, said his wife, Christina Pickford McNamara. Engelhardt and his wife, Nicole, met in junior high school, and have been together ever since.

"Myself and most of his closest friends have been part of his life for over 30 years," said Pickford McNamara. "And although that may seem like a long time, we’re praying for as much more time as we can get. "

She continued to say that Engelhardt is currently in the ICU fighting off two massive infections.

Pickford McNamara said that he previously had "no other major health issues," and his liver failure was relatively recent and unexpected.

"We started this go fund me to help Nicole with her solo expenses and all the impending costs that will come this unexpected terrible news," she said.

The GoFundMe describes Dan as an irreplaceable friend, whose light shines in every room.

"If you know Dan, you are lucky," the description said. "You've experienced the pleasure of his warmth, friendship and above all his laughter."

Pickford McNamara said his friends, family, and community will support continue to support him.

"This will be a long journey, but Dans always been up for an underdog fight. And we will all stand by him and Nicole for every step of it."

To view the GoFundMe, click here.

GoFundMe is a Patch promotional partner.