David Eckstein is going the distance to bring a new transplant facility to Florida Hospitals on his 40th birthday. Eckstein is a long-time Nerdist pal who c0-founded Her Universe with his wife, the kickass Ashley Eckstein in 2009. We’re pumped to bring you all the details of this great birthday wish he’s hoping to fulfill as he turns 40 this year. The fundraising goal is to get $40,000 for a new Organ Transplant House at Florida Hospital through an ambitious crowdfunding campaign that you can contribute to on CrowdRise.

Eckstein had an illustrious 10 year career in Major League Baseball, and since he left baseball has been devoted to turning Her Universe into the success it is today. But healthcare, specifically issues around organ donation, have always had a special place in his heart. Growing up, he had four family members receive kidney transplants and another three who donated healthy kidneys to help others in need. He knows first hand how important it is to have the local support when the worst happens with long hospital stays, extensive travel for treatment and the financial burden that follows. As a result, he’s spent most of his adult life advocating for organ donation and raising awareness of the needs that families who face these medical crises can face.

In the press release announcing the campaign for the Organ Transplant House, Eckstein said, “When I found out that my siblings had kidney disease, I wished that I could trade places with them, I wished that it had happened to me. I hated watching my siblings going through everything. I had to stay home while they went to Gainesville and our family was separated during the treatments and transplants. It was a scary time. I want to help other families who are going through a similar experience.”

Ashley Eckstein added, “The Organ Transplant House will provide a safe haven and a sense of stability during a tumultuous time. We appreciate anything that you can donate to this great cause.”

Let’s rally together and show the Ecksteins – who have brought so much joy to so many through Her Universe, convention appearances, and Ashley’s acting – that the geeky community can help them make this new safe haven for families who need it a reality. You can donate to the campaign here and make sure to wish David a Happy Birthday when you do!

Feature Image via ksdk.com