Throughout 2025, William (who goes by Bill) had been struggling with fatigue that just kept getting worse. At first, it was easy to write it off, but as the year progressed, it got so extreme that he was unable to work at all. In early November, he went in and got the news: he had severe blockages in his heart, and his body wasn’t getting nearly enough oxygen. He needed open heart surgery, right away.

Caring Coworkers

Bill’s team members jumped in right away to make sure he had all the practical aspects of life covered. His broker set up a meal train so he wouldn’t have to cook post-surgery, found a place for his (10!) dogs to stay, and put together a fundraiser to pay for it. A fellow agent checked on the puppies and took Bill to and from all his appointments. And his Market Center leaders were there to offer whatever other assistance he needed.

Serious Surgery

On December 12th doctors set to work. The left anterior descending artery was blocked in two places—75% and 85%, respectively—but they were able to repair the blockage using a LIMA procedure. Bill also had a blockage on the right side of his heart that was repaired using a vein from his left leg, and his Aortic valve was replaced. They found an aneurysm in the upper ascending aorta, which also was repaired. If that sounds like a lot, it’s because it is!

I was overwhelmed at how much it was going to cost and didn’t know how I was going to be able to pay for everything, especially with the extended recovery time, where I wouldn’t be able to work.

Even a single open-heart surgery procedure has a long recovery time, and Bill had four procedures. That, coupled with the fact that he’s been out of work since November and realistically can’t get back to real estate before late April or May, makes living expenses a serious concern.

I was not making much money before the surgery due to extreme fatigue due to the condition of my heart. I didn’t realize that until I had the heart catheter and found out how dire the situation was.

How You Help through KW Cares

KW Cares helped with a portion of Bill’s expenses for the surgery and the time he’s recovering so he can get the rest he needs to fully recuperate.

I never really thought much about KW Cares before the surgery, but, after their caring and compassion in helping me, I will be making a donation with every transaction from this time forward. I hope that every agent will consider making a donation to this amazing organization. KW truly exhibits the motto of God, family and then business.

Your gifts to KW Cares help associates like Bill when major medical needs arise. Please donate today!

Thank you from the bottom of my mended heart!