With the cost of a transplant often exceeding $500,000, many transplant patients are unable to shoulder the financial burden of such a procedure. The Children’s Organ Transplant Association (COTA) is a national charity dedicated to organizing and guiding communities in raising funds for transplant-needy patients. In Cincinnati, volunteers are raising funds for transplant patients like local child Amber Newman.

Born on August 17, 1991, Amber was diagnosed with Cystic Fibrosis. On March 13, 2007, doctors at Pittsburgh Children’s Hospital in Pennsylvania performed a life-saving double lung transplant. Due to further complications, on July 2, 2007 doctors performed a life-saving kidney transplant.  An estimated $65,000 is being raised by Cincinnati volunteers. Any donations are very much appreciated.  To further read Amber's story, please look at her journal.