Past Recipients

Cevallos has been a dedicated student-athlete at York University, who plays an integral part in the men’s soccer program. The NGF grant will help provide crucial support as he navigates personal and financial challenges, allowing him to focus on his health, academics, and continued involvement at York.
“Today I received great news that I would receive help with medical expenses for my cruciate ligament surgery. I want to thank you for your help with my medical expenses and knee recovery. My family and I are so grateful to you; you don't know what this means to us. I express my gratitude to everyone who contributed to the donation and made this possible. Now I am even more motivated to recover from this injury and return to the field better than ever”
Blessings,
Felipe Cevallo

After experiencing debilitating back pain, Isabella was faced with a difficult decision regarding her treatment options. Rather than undergoing invasive surgery, she chose to pursue an intensive physical therapy program to help her recover and regain mobility. However, the cost of ongoing therapy quickly became a financial strain. That’s when Isabella reached out to the Nebraska Greats Foundation for help.
"When I learned about The Nebraska Greats Foundation I finally felt confident in taking the next steps to address lingering concerns from my career in college athletics. Throughout the process, I felt endless support and great relief knowing that, with their partnership, feeling better did not have to be a burden. I'm so incredibly grateful for the generous people that make this foundation possible as they support a population whose needs might otherwise go unaddressed."  Isabella Hilger

Cheyenne Birkle, a former standout volleyball student-athlete at Peru State College, has been awarded a grant from the Nebraska Greats Foundation.
“I cannot thank the Nebraska Greats Foundation enough for helping me get through one of the toughest years of my life. I’m forever thankful and grateful for their continuous support, generosity, and patience throughout my entire surgery and recovery process. This foundation truly helped eliminate a lot of the stress that comes with dealing with two back-to-back surgeries and I cannot express my appreciation enough.”
-Cheyenne Birkle

In 1976, Porter suffered a serious injury that significantly affected his playing career.
Despite this setback, he faced the challenge with determination and resilience, qualities
that would continue to define him well beyond his years on the field.
"My wife, Diane, and I want to express our deep gratitude to the Nebraska Greats Foundation Board of Directors for the grant that will help us immensely.
The money will provide the in-home healthcare I desperately need. We thank you from the bottom of our hearts." - Budge

In late February 2024, Mark underwent surgery in Indianapolis to repair a cerebral spinal fluid leak near his right ear. Unfortunately, just one week later, on March 5, Mark experienced a brain hemorrhage while at home with his wife, Ann. She recalled that Mark began losing his balance before ultimately collapsing. He was immediately transported to the hospital, where he remained for an extended recovery period. Mark spent three months at a rehabilitation facility in Chicago, followed by another three months in Iowa, before finally returning home to continue outpatient therapy.
During his recovery, Mark reached out to the Nebraska Greats Foundation for assistance with home health care services and medical equipment. NGF was honored to step in and provide support during his time of need.

Todd Honas, a former Husker Football player participated with the Huskers from 2016-2020. Todd currently lives in Omaha and is pursuing a Law degree from Creighton University. During his time at Nebraska, he suffered numerous concussions. Todd enjoyed a successful career at UNL, but unfortunately now suffers from post-concussion issues. His hearing has worsened and he reached out to the Nebraska Greats Foundation for help with his medical bills and neurotherapy treatments.
“I am incredibly honored and grateful to the Nebraska Greats Foundation for awarding me this grant. As both a former student-athlete and a future advocate, this support means the world to me. It not only eases the financial burden of my recovery but also motivates me to continue advocating for others that may need help.”

Jay Sims, former Nebraska Football player from 1994-1997 has significant medical issues with an underlying diagnosis of hypertension.
In addition he has chronic renal failure and cerebral vascular disease, all of which have led to a debilitating stroke. He has had difficulty regaining mobility from his left hemiparalysis. He reached out to the NGF to help with the expense of a Cionic sleeve for his left leg.
I would like to thank Nebraska Greats Foundation for their generous support. My family and I can now continue to focus on my recovery from a stroke without the strain of medical bills. I will always be grateful for your help and support.
–Thank you,
Jay Sims

Kalei is a former Wayne State College Wildcat wide receiver, originally from Santa Rosa, California. He joined the program following stellar performances at Santa Rosa Junior College—where he hauled in 47 receptions for 632 yards, scored seven touchdowns, and returned a kickoff 85 yards for a TD—and a season at the College of Idaho. Aukai appeared in two games during his time at Wayne State, contributing on special teams in matchups against Winona State and Southwest Minnesota State in 2019.

Originally from Oklahoma, Hannah joined Midland University just recently and was a powerful addition to the team.
Unfortunately, in the middle of a match, just at the beginning of the 2022 season, Tillison suffered a fractured ankle, followed by hip injuries.
The Nebraska Greats Foundation we were able to step in and help.
“Without the Nebraska Greats Foundation helping me, I would not have been able to pay my medical bills. They were instrumental in navigating me through this process. Now, my medical bills have been taken care of. Thank you to the Nebraska Greats Foundation for helping me through these difficult life circumstances.” – Tillison Remarked.

Zoe graduated from the University of Nebraska Omaha in Summer 2024 with a degree in Multidisciplinary Studies. A dedicated student-athlete, she competed in cross country and track for four years, achieving the 5th fastest steeplechase time in UNO history during her junior year. Beginning as a walk-on, she earned her first scholarship that same year through hard work and perseverance.

Hannah studied Criminology and Criminal Justice at the University of Nebraska Omaha from Fall 2012 through Summer 2016 and was readmitted for Spring 2023. With 24 credits left to complete, she was working toward finishing her degree while currently living in Lincoln, Nebraska, where she works for a construction company.

Lamel was a Multidisciplinary Studies major at the University of Nebraska Omaha who first enrolled in Summer 2019. Having completed 94 credits, he had 14 credits to finish to graduate in Spring 2023 and 12 credits in Summer 2023. Based in Omaha, Nebraska, he is interested in pursuing a career as an EMT and is within the window to contribute to APR and GSR metrics.

Brahan is a first-generation college student who attended the University of Nebraska Omaha from Fall 2017 through Spring 2018, majoring in Multidisciplinary Studies. He had 9 credits left to complete at UNO. Currently based in Atlanta, Georgia, he is working in consulting and sales.

Mikhail is an international student from Gelendzhik, Russia, studying Cybersecurity with a minor in Computer Science at the University of Nebraska Omaha. He began his studies in Spring 2022 and has 30 credits remaining, with plans to graduate in Fall 2025. With an estimated $36,000 needed to complete his degree, Mikhail looks forward to pursuing a career as a Security Analyst.

Reagan is a first-generation college student from Houston, Texas, pursuing a degree in Electrical Engineering at the University of Nebraska Omaha. She began her studies in Fall 2021 and, with only 13 credits remaining, is set to complete her degree and graduate in Fall 2025 with NGF support.

Arnezha is an international student from Warwick, Bermuda, and a first-generation college student. He began his studies at the University of Nebraska Omaha in Fall 2021, pursuing a degree in Multidisciplinary Studies. With only 15–18 credits remaining, he is on track to complete his undergraduate degree and graduate in Summer or Fall 2025 with NGF support.

Rick had been navigating through a series of health adversities, including spinal complications.
The Nebraska Greats Foundation approved a grant to provide Rick with a new scooter and dentures, aiming to improve his mobility and quality of life.

Growing up in Ohio, Evan Taylor developed his skills on the basketball court before moving to Florida at the age of 13.
During his time at UNL, Evan Taylor became a vital member of the team. He had to leave his team due to ongoing foot and leg issues. With the help of his family, friends, and, of course, The Nebraska Greats Foundation will be quickly on his way to recovery.
“I extend my gratitude and deepest appreciation for everyone who is a part of the foundation.” – Said Taylor.

As a team captain, he played a pivotal role in leading the Huskers to 22 wins in his senior year
Anton continued to pursue his passion for basketball, playing in several foreign countries. However, he encountered health concerns that started getting in the way of his professional basketball career.
This is where the Nebraska Greats Foundation stepped in.

“I am honored and extremely grateful to be a part of the Nebraska Greats Foundation family. My family and I appreciate all the support as we navigate getting my career back on track.” -Anton Gill

Paul Kastl lived his dream to play Husker Football. The former Lincoln Pius X running back was a powerful part of one of the nation’s top rushing offenses. But injuries lingering from football began to make times tougher later in life. Medical bills started piling up. The NGF arrived with help.
“I had nowhere else to turn. My insurance wasn’t adequate. The Nebraska Greats really helped me out. Can’t thank them enough.” -Paul Kastl

Bridget contributed in over 12 games in her tenure and recorded five shots with two on goal for on goal percentage of .400.
She was diagnosed with Stage 3 Primary Angiosarcoma. Bridget began her journey to recovery with the help of the Nebraska Greats Foundation.

Tyler Wilt, a stand-out soccer captain for York University, suffered from a lingering back injury he received from his days on the field.
Wilt was referred to the NGF by a family friend and shortly thereafter awarded a grant to assist his recovery.

Dawnn was a promising and hard-working team player at Wayne State College. She transferred to Wayne in 1987 to become a junior college women’s basketball star.
In March 2022, Dawnn was diagnosed with Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS), a disease that has marked a new chapter in her life.
“I am beyond blessed and grateful that the Nebraska Greats Foundation is able to help with an accessible bathroom and a ramp for the front door. These things are going to make my life so much easier as I journey through my battle with ALS. I’m honored to become part of the Nebraska Greats Foundation family! Thank you from the bottom of my Heart for your generosity. You guys are Amazing!” -Dawnn.

Former UNO football star whose life took a challenging turn after a stroke. The NGF arrived with help
“My stroke has been life-changing; tasks that were once taken for granted are now obstacles. Basic life skills like walking, seeing, and using my dominant hand are now challenges. Sports taught me to persevere and compete; I continue to persevere and compete to get better daily, The Nebraska Greats have made daily challenges safer and easier. Thank you!” – Peter Coniglio

This Omaha native evolved into not only one of the most accomplished swimmers in state history, but Keefe Lodwig became a world-class swimmer and a champion master’s swimmer. But in his 70s, ALS crept in and after being victimized by criminal theft that left Keefe with no insurance, the NGF took over and made the last months of his life more comfortable for both Keefe and his family.

“ALS is a progressive disease where the victim never gets better, only worse. It’s very hard on the family and can cause tremendous stress. The Nebraska Greats Foundation worked with all the caregivers to make things better for me and my family. I’m so grateful to the Nebraskans who support this cause. Thank you!.”
– Keefe Lodwig

Keefe Lodwig passed away January 27, 2023
Keefe Ludwig August 3, 1943 - January 27, 2023

Former Husker football walk-on Anthony Branch approached the Nebraska Greats Foundation in the Fall of 2022 seeking assistance as kidney disease required a kidney transplant. The NGF put its network of followers and fans to work, and in the spring of 2023, a suitable donor was found.
“The Nebraska Greats Foundation saved my life. I had no idea that when committing to the University of Nebraska back in high school, the people of Nebraska were committing to me for the rest of my life.” – Anthony Branch

Hockey player Sky Thompson is the first grant recipient from the Nebraska Greats Foundation at Midland University in Fremont. While competing, she suffered a severe concussion that required an extended hospital stay. The costs exceeded what her insurance allowed coming from a foreign country. The NGF covered her outstanding expenses.”
“Upon receiving this grant from Nebraska Greats Foundation, stress was lifted. This grant gives me the opportunity to continue my education and hockey career without the added stress of bills from an unfortunate injury.” – Sky Thompson

A native of Brazil, Keven traveled across the world to play soccer for York College. After one game, he suffered a severe abdominal injury that required hospitalization. The NAIA only covers so much; since Keven is on work-study, he was left without the funds to cover his costs. The NGF covered those expenses, so Keven could return to class and on the field.
“I am very grateful for all the help and assistance the Nebraska Greats Foundation provided. I appreciate and recognize the great work they do in helping people and families who need or have needed help, just like me.”
-Keven Marques

Carlos Ortega a sophomore Midfielder from York College. Carlos is originally from Margarita Island, Venezuela. Carlos applied for a grant to assist him with medical bills stemming from an injury he suffered while competing. The NGF provided funds to a provider for services not covered by insurance. “I want to thank the Nebraska Greats Foundation for all your help and support. I truly appreciate what the NGF does for athletes in need. It will allow me to stay in school to continue competing and getting a college education.”

Gerald Morris (Concordia/Football) was seriously injured as a passenger in a spring automobile accident in Utah. His injuries required extensive surgery, rehabilitation and hospital stays. “The Nebraska Greats is a god-send to Gerald and his family. What an incredible, caring organization that literally changes peoples lives.” Said Concordia football coach Patrick Daberkow.”

Jeremy Fossum, of Bellevue, NE (Doane/Baseball) was diagnosed with an operable brain tumor. Beyond the age when he could be covered by his family health insurance, Jeremy was saddled with sizable expense from the operation and associated care. The burden was made worse by significant student loan debt as he pursues a career in physical therapy. Said Fossum, “Finding out about the tumor, I had no thoughts about the cost but then when the bills started to arrive, I became very concerned. I wasn’t sure I would have any way to pay for the health care. Glory to God, He changed my life through the NGF.”

Bernard Day, a two-year standout for Husker Basketball from 1985-87 received a grant to support his recovery from reconstructive knee surgery. Day helped lead Nebraska into its first NCAA Tournament game in 1986 and to the NIT Final Four in 1987 as a two-year starter for coaches Moe Iba and Danny Nee.

Jose Calderon, a Junior LW from York College by way Ranger Community College was seriously injured in a soccer match on August 21, 2021. He was admitted to the emergency room for exams, diagnosis, and treatment. The Nebraska Greats Foundation aided Jose in meeting medical expenses not covered by insurance.
Says Calderon, “The Nebraska Greats Foundation was help from heaven, without their help I would not have been able to pay for the hospital bills. I am very grateful for the help they have given me and the assistance they gave me. They are an incredible foundation, very professional and concerned.”

Christofer Monje, a senior Goalkeeper for the York College Panthers recently underwent facial surgery after being injured in a game. Medical expenses exceeded those covered by school provided insurance. Monje, originally from Santiago, Chile applied for a grant to cover those expenses directly related to the procedure and post operative care.
“When it came to cover the medical expenses, it was really hard, and more so being an international student. This is when The Nebraska Greats Foundation came to help me. Without them I couldn’t afford this injury and might have had to leave school.”

Rocco Gonnella, from Syracuse, NY is struggling from the effects of end-of-life issues including dementia, Parkinson’s Disease, and diabetes in addition to treatable but not curable throat cancer. He needs around the clock nursing care, transportation, and medication. The NGF grant will supplement his Medicare Benefits.

Lightner was infected with COVID-19 while visiting Lincoln from Japan and spent 32 days in the hospital. His fever spiked to 104 degrees, he suffered cardiac arrest, a collapsed lung and was in an induced COMA for 10 days. His treatment costs ran into the seven figures. The NGF assisted with care not covered by insurance. Said Lightner, “The bills piled up quickly. The NGF stepped in and took this burden off our shoulders. I will be forever grateful.”

A former Husker walk on from New Jersey, Walker was an impact player on special teams for the 1988 Big 8 Championship squad. His career highlight was a punt block returned for a touchdown in a 1987 game against UNLV. The NGF assisted Cartier after treatments for prostate cancer for provider expenses not covered by insurance.

I am forever grateful to the Nebraska Greats Foundation because without them, my dream of traveling to New York to undergo Birmingham Hip Resurfacing (BHR), by renowned orthopedic surgeon, Edwin P. Su, M.D., and receive the “gold standard” of hip resurfacing implants, would have stayed just that, a dream and never a reality. Thank you for helping me get back to winning in the game of life!”

Without insurance, Wurth applied for a grant from the NGF seeking assistance with Cataract surgery stemming from Type II Diabetes. Wurth also needed assistance with multiple hospital stays as a result of chronic neuropathy.

Tim Wurth passed away April 30, 2022
November 19, 1957 - April 30, 2022

Adam Driver was an elite Pole Vaulter for the Hastings Broncos and competed in national championship meets. He was injured in an industrial accident shortly after leaving college. The NGF provided Adam with equipment and facilities so that he could remain active. He is now an assistant Track and Field coach at his Alma Mater.

Hall survived a near fatal automobile accident, spent 20 days in the hospital before enduring months of physical therapy. A walk on to the Loper football team, the NGF assisted the family in meeting the insurance deductible.

Facing bankruptcy, Dennis reached out to the NGF for assistance with outstanding invoices from emergency hospitalization for heart disease and pneumonia. His disability insurance did not cover all of his medical related expenses.

The NGF assisted Morse with prescription medication to address his diabetes that was not covered by his insurance.

Miss Henry, a cancer survivor needed assistance with transportation to and from Chemotherapy treatments.

Darrel Walton was a standout high school performer at Omaha South High School who played Nebraska football in the Mid 1970’s ’75-78 on athletic scholarship. He moved to defensive back for his senior season as the Huskers captured the Big 8 Crown and played in the Orange Bowl.
The Nebraska Greats Foundation assisted Darrel with post-operative expenses not covered by insurance after surgery for a chronic knee injury.

The NGF assisted Hayes with lingering expenses from his cancer treatments not covered by insurance and from outstanding expenses related to surgical procedures.

Best known as the bruising fullback that paved the way for Heisman Trophy winner Eric Crouch, Miller suffered from chronic back and knee injuries that required multiple surgeries and much outpatient care. The NGF assisted Miller with these needs which allowed him a faster recovery and to enroll in post-graduate courses to pursue a career in nursing.

A standout, two sport performer for the Bobcats, she was diagnosed with ALS before her 30th birthday. As the disease progressed, the Nebraska Greats Foundation provided valuable equipment her family insurance would not cover. These facilities have allowed her more restful sleep and slowed the degenerative effects of the disease.

Harris was a standout performer during her collegiate career, bringing distinction and championships to Husker Gymnastics. Later in life, Harris began to develop serious Gastrointestinal and related illnesses that forced her to give up her career. After years of struggle, the Nebraska Greats Foundation provided Tami with funds to enter the Mayo Clinic where her condition was identified and a treatment program was created.

Former Omaha Central and Bluejay standout, Jones suffered from genetic heart condition that forced his retirement from athletics while still enrolled in school. The NGF provided residual co-pays from Jones’ NCAA insurance benefits toward major surgical procedures and after care. Today, Josh is one the NGF’s most passionate supporters.