Fundraising campaign started for tribal member Arlene Ortiz after kidney transplant surgery
Arlene Ortiz GoFundMe donation page and website information. (Submitted photo)
FORT HALL — Family and friends of Shoshone-Bannock tribal member Arlene Ortiz have set up a GoFundMe campaign to help support after she received a kidney transplant and is in need of funds for her stay in Salt Lake City, Utah.
Any assistance is appreciated.
Arlene lives in Fort Hall and has limited resources. She is reaching out to share her story during a pivotal time in her life.
On January 25, she received a kidney transplant after waiting 11 years on dialysis. The transplant happened very quickly, and while she is incredibly grateful for the life-changing opportunity, it has been quite overwhelming to process everything so suddenly.
Last year, 2025, was especially difficult, as she lost both of her daughters. “my youngest in April and my oldest daughter in August, just four months apart. They were my supporters driving me to and from dialysis and everything else,” she said.
Arlene said her husband is unable to work because of ongoing health issues, which has left her not only emotionally devastated but also with very limited financial resources. She is the only care giver to her two underage grandchildren who reside with her.
She explained the kidney donation came unexpectedly, and “I truly feel as though I have two angels watching over me and answered prayers. Last week was special significance for her mother’s side of the family, as they are descendants that survived The Bear River Massacre on January 29th, 1863.
Currently, she needs to stay in Salt Lake City for approximately six weeks to recover and ensure the success of her transplant. If you are able to assist in any way during this time, it would mean so much to her. Specifically, she is seeking support in the following areas:
• Reliable transportation; financial assistance to help with living and medical expenses during her recovery; renovation of her current home, along with words of encouragement, prayers, emotional support to help her stay hopeful.
If you would like to help, please donate. “May God bless you with more. I understand everyone faces their own challenges, and any kindness, no matter the form or amount, is deeply appreciated,” she said. “Your encouragement and support would greatly help me as I focus on healing and rebuilding. Thank you to God for helping me through this journey. Give and it will be given to you. Luke 6:38.
https://gofund.me/e142f959e
