Hello friends, family, and kindhearted supporters,
I’m Leslie Cruz, and I’m reaching out as a sister who loves her big brother more than words can express. Nathan has always been my protector, my role model, and one of the strongest people I know. Now, he’s facing the biggest fight of his life.
Nathan is so much more than just a patient fighting this disease—he is a loving husband, a devoted father, a proud big brother, a man of faith, a Derby High School graduate, and a Kansas State University Wildcat alumnus. He has always been the kind of person to step up for others, and now, he needs our help.
A Battle for His Life
In 2015, Nathan was diagnosed with Primary Sclerosing Cholangitis (PSC)—a rare autoimmune liver disease that silently but aggressively damages the bile ducts and leads to liver failure. For years, he fought through it, continuing to be the incredible husband, dad, and brother we all know and love. But now, his disease has progressed to stage 3 of 4 for liver cirrhosis, and his liver is failing.
For the past 17 months, Nathan has been on constant antibiotics just to keep his body functioning and to avoid life-threatening infections that have repeatedly landed him in the emergency room and ICU. During a visit to the Mayo Clinic in Rochester, MN, his doctors gave us devastating news—this antibiotic regimen is not a long-term solution. His body will eventually build resistance, and without a transplant, his health will continue to decline.
At first, we pursued transplant options at the Mayo Clinic, but due to insurance challenges, we had to shift Nathan’s care to the University of Nebraska Medical Center. This transition was difficult, but we remained hopeful, knowing that time was of the essence in getting him the transplant he so desperately needs.
A Miracle: A Living Donor Match
For months, we searched for a living liver donor—someone selfless enough to give a part of themselves to save my brother’s life. Then, our prayers were answered. Our cousin, Craig Buskohl, stepped forward without hesitation. He underwent extensive testing, waiting, and hoping. And last Friday, we received the news we had been praying for: Craig is a match!
Even more, the transplant surgery is officially scheduled for May at the University of Nebraska Medical Center.
Words cannot express how grateful we are for Craig’s incredible sacrifice. He is giving my brother a second chance at life. But with this life-saving opportunity comes an overwhelming financial burden.
How You Can Help
With this transplant comes a growing financial strain—medical expenses, ongoing treatments, frequent travel to and from the University of Nebraska Medical Center, and the loss of income while both Nathan and Craig recover. While we are working with insurance to cover as much as possible, the out-of-pocket costs are significant.
I wish I could take on this financial burden for him, but I can’t do it alone.
That’s why I’m reaching out to our community, friends, and even kind strangers who may be moved by Nathan’s story. A purchase of apparel will help ease the financial strain and allow Nathan to focus on healing once he has his surgery.
Purchase a T-Shirt to Support Nathan’s Journey
You can help by purchasing a t-shirt from the "KSU Alum Needs a Wildcat Victory" section. A large portion of each sale will go directly toward funding Nathan’s liver transplant surgery and related expenses. Not only will you be contributing to a life-saving cause, but you'll also be showing your support of one of K-State’s own.
If you can’t contribute financially, please consider sharing this website and keeping both Nathan and Craig in your thoughts and prayers.
The Importance of Organ Donation
Nathan is incredibly lucky to have found a living donor, but thousands of people are still waiting for a life-saving transplant. If you’ve ever considered becoming an organ donor, please take this as a sign. You have the power to save a life.
To learn more and register as an organ donor, please visit https://www.organdonor.gov/sign-up.
Your decision could mean hope, healing, and a second chance at life for someone in desperate need.
Thank You for Your Support
My brother is one of the strongest people I know, and with your support, I know he can make it through this. Thank you from the bottom of my heart for reading, for caring, and for helping in any way you can.
We will keep you updated as we move closer to the transplant date.
With love and gratitude,
Leslie Cruz
