Patient Assistance Fund Recipient

Tim and Kathy Bartlett

When my wife, Kathy, and I moved to Montana, we never imagined the challenges we would soon face. I was diagnosed with liver failure and quickly became too ill to work. Without my income and with no insurance coverage, our financial situation became overwhelming. We were falling deeper into debt while also trying to navigate my complex medical needs.

I needed a liver and kidney transplant, and the only way to qualify was through extensive testing and procedures at the University of Utah. The frequent trips to Salt Lake City were expensive—gas, hotel stays, meals—all adding to our financial stress. At the same time, Kathy had to return to work to help us stay afloat. It felt impossible.

That’s when St. Peter’s Health’s Patient Assistance Fund changed everything for us. Thanks to the generosity of hospital employees who donated to this fund, we received the support we desperately needed to make the critical trips to Utah. Because of that help, I was able to continue my transplant journey. 

When I finally got the call—a donor match had been found—I couldn’t believe it.

I underwent my double transplant at the University of Utah, and though my recovery is ongoing, I am exceeding expectations. I’m alive today because of the care I received and the generosity of people like you.

Looking back, I realize that I don’t know how we would have made it through those first difficult months without the Patient Assistance Fund. St. Peter’s Health was there for us in every way—from Dr. Moore to my nurse care manager, Catie Cloninger, to the incredible emergency room staff, who treated me countless times when my condition worsened. One provider who made a lasting impact on me was Jacob Williams, PA, whose kindness and bedside manner stood out during some of my worst days.

Thank you to every St. Peter’s Health employee who donates to this fund. You may never meet the patients you help, but I promise you—your donations change lives. Mine is one of them. If you’ve never donated before, please consider it. Even a small gift can be life-changing. Because of you, I am here today, on the road to recovery, looking forward to the future with my wife by my side.