Former New Hanover High School Player Needs Kidney

Reported by: Tim Pulliam

Bernard Siaki, a former New Hanover high school football player is on the waiting list for a kidney transplant. Saturday, the community rallied around him to raise money.

His one and only kidney is shutting down. He’s on dialsyis to stay alive unitl a kidney donor is available. He says, “When people go on dialysis it’s definitely a hard life.”

Siaki’s friends and family participated in a golf tournament at Echo Farms golf course for the fundraiser.

His Uncle, Larry Tootoo is amazed at the community’s support. “Just by the show of all these people it’s been very successful.”

At least teams participanted in the tournament and already 20,000 dollars has been raised.

There was a silent auction for items like a washer and dryer, and golf equipment.
Siaki needs to raise at least $300,000 dollars for the transplant. After that, he has to pay $3,000 in monthly prescription drugs.

His Friend and former football teammate Trot Nixon is optimistic about raising the money.

“We love Bernard. we love his family and we’re going to do the best that we can for them.”

Organizers plan to make this an annual event until all the money is raised.

“I’m hoping it will change my life and get back to normal,” Siaki says.

If you would like to donate log on to www.savebernardsiaki.org