ORAN MAN AWAITS TRANSPLANT; FUNDRAISER SCHEDULED SUNDAY

ORAN -- A 37-year-old former mayor of Oran is awaiting a kidney transplant.

Two weeks ago, Leroy Eftink had both of his diseased kidneys removed at St. Louis University Hospital. He was scheduled to come home today.

His mother, Alma Eftink of Oran, said that her son is now on a waiting list for a kidney. In the meantime, he20must undergo dialysis three times a week.

"I was up there yesterday and he really looked good," Alma Eftink said Tuesday.

"At first it was hard to take," she said. "Since he's pulled through surgery now, it looks brighter. Now we just have to keep praying for a kidney."

Alma Eftink said she's been through this before. Her husband's brother died of kidney disease. Her husband had a kidney transplant in 1974. "He lived for about nine and a half years," she said. He died of cancer in April 1983.

She said doctors have indicated that it could take weeks, months or even years to find a suitable kidney for her son. She said her husband was on dialysis for three months before receiving a new kidney.

Her son, Leroy, served as mayor of Oran from 1984 to 1986. He also has served a number of terms as alderman, most recently from 1988-1990.

Alma Eftink said her son has been unable to work since April 19. "He got very sick and lost 40 pounds over a short time," she said.

Leroy Eftink and his wife, Ginger, have a 12-year-old son, and two daughters, 7 and 4 years of age.

Alma Eftink said the Oran community has been very supportive. The Knights of Columbus have sponsored several events to raise money to help defray the medical costs.

They've already raised about $2,000, she said.

Another fundraiser a dinner is on tap for Sunday, from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Knights of Columbus Hall. Admission is $5 for adults, $2.50 for children, ages 6 to 12, and free for children under 6.