By ROBIN SHANNON

L’Observateur

DESTREHAN – While working in Africa in 2008, Destrehan native Randolph “Randy” Butler Jr. was bitten by an unidentified insect. The bite caused a parasite to invade his body and wreak havoc in his blood stream for more than three years.

Family members said doctors have been able to identify the parasite, but the damage to Butler’s body has already been done. Butler has had to undergo five surgeries as well as two different liver transplants.

“All that came in the last month or so,” said Melissa Butler, Randy’s sister. “He is slowly improving, but he still needs a lot of help and support.”

Melissa Butler said she and other family members are aiming to lift Randy’s spirits while also aiding in paying off some of his extensive medical bills, and she is asking for some additional community support. The family is putting on what they have dubbed a “Party with a Purpose” for Randy this evening at the American Legion Hall in St. Rose. Melissa Butler is hoping the party can put a dent in the bills still due for Randy’s surgeries.

“The typical cost of a liver transplant is roughly $519,000,” she said. “The cost of medications to help prevent transplant rejection is more than $31,000 per year. Half of the surgery cost and both pre-op and post-op medications are not covered by insurance. Whatever help we can get would be deeply appreciated.”

Melissa Butler said the party is from 8 p.m. to midnight at the hall, located at 12188 River Road in St. Rose. Admission is $15 per person, and guests are invited to bring their own alcohol. In addition to the party, the family has also set up donation fund accounts at Capital One and Regions banks.

For more information or to make a donation, contact the family at 504-339-5953 or by email at randystransplantinfo@yahoo.com.