A Jacksonville man in need of a kidney transplant is turning to the Internet for help and is getting it thanks to a familiar face – his son, known as the “Success Kid” meme.
The Griner family is feeling joyful. The help is pouring in thanks to a GoFundMe page and a picture of their then-11-month-old son Sam, known as the "Success Kid."
Justin Griner said he was diagnosed with kidney disease in 2006 and kidney failure in 2009. Since then, he said he's been on dialysis for 12 hours a week and needs to raise $75,000 for a transplant and medical expenses.
"It’s so humbling and reassures our faith in humanity that people want to help people," Justin Griner said.
Justin's wife, Laney, created the page with a picture of their son, "Success Kid," who's 8 years old now.
"It's really surprising," said Sam Griner.
"We've had so many people comment this brought smiles to their faces and they donated because of that," said Laney Griner.
Since the "Success Kid" became an Internet sensation, some believe they don't need the money. The Griner family said that's far from true.
"Medicare pays for 80 percent, but 20 percent out of pocket," Justin Griner said.
This family said any little bit helps.
To learn more about the Griner family, visit their GoFundMe page.
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