Jeff Weber survives cancer & kidney failure; inspires others
Shari and Jeff Weber are bonded in a way most couples could never—and never should have to—imagine. Jeff has one of Shari’s kidneys. Read more about how this couple is helping inspire others to give the gift of life at a Hoxworth blood drive
From Cancer to Kidney Transplant, Jeff Weber Has Been Through a Lot
In 2003, Jeff Weber was diagnosed with a low-grade type of non-Hodgkin lymphoma. On top of the cancer diagnosis, he was already living with a genetic form of kidney disease. Because of this, he could not receive chemotherapy, but radiation and surgery successfully treated the cancer. In 2010, the cancer returned, and he underwent treatment again.
From Cancer to Organ Transplant
After two cancer diagnoses and continued kidney issues, Shari was tested and found to be a match for donation. On Feb. 11, 2014, Jeff received a healthy kidney from his wife.
Unfortunately, his health challenges didn’t end there. In early 2025, Jeff was diagnosed with cancer for a third time. This time it was diffuse large B-cell lymphoma, a common form of non-Hodgkin lymphoma. With his new kidney, Jeff was eligible for chemotherapy, which meant more blood transfusions.
“I spoke to one of the nurses about all of the blood Jeff was getting,” Shari said. “I asked if this was abnormal. The nurse told me this is totally normal. I couldn’t believe that much blood was needed for one person!”
During one of his hospital stays, Jeff received three transfusions in just five days.
Did You Know?
- 25% of the blood supply is used by cancer patients.
- A patient undergoing chemotherapy may need eight platelet units per week.
- Cancer patients are the largest group requiring blood in the United States.
Ironically, Jeff’s first day of chemotherapy was Feb. 11, 2025—11 years to the day of his kidney transplant.
Giving Back to Help Others
Shari said many people asked how they could help Jeff and the family. She realized that organizing a blood drive would be a simple way to make a big difference. She contacted Hoxworth Blood Center to host a drive to support people like Jeff who receive blood products during treatment.
To me, it seems like a no-brainer—it’s an easy thing to do
Shari Weber
In April, the Weber family blood drive was a huge success, with more than 50 appointments scheduled, including many first-time donors. A few friends even traveled from outside the Cincinnati area to help save lives like Jeff’s.
During the "JonJon and Friends" Wellness Wednesday segment, Shari said she hopes to host another drive in the future—one Jeff can attend.
Looking Ahead
Jeff continues to recover from his latest battle with cancer and faces more treatment ahead. He looks forward to making more happy memories with Shari, their three children—Maura, Mason and Miles—and their dog, Fergus.
Join These #HoxworthHeroes Today
Every two seconds, someone in the United States needs blood. At Hoxworth Blood Center, more than 400 donors are needed daily to meet the needs of over 30 local hospitals.
You can save up to three lives with one donation. Find a drive near you or visit one of seven neighborhood donor centers to continue saving lives close to home.