PITTSBURGH -- Alan Checca has undergone two kidney transplants in the past 24 years and is in need of another, but a dental issue not covered by his health insurance is putting his chances of a third in jeopardy.

"If I'm not transplanted, I'll live life on dialysis or die on dialysis. It's that simple. It's cut and dry," said Checca.

Checca, of Derry, Westmoreland County, received his first kidney transplant in 1986 when he was 18. He underwent a second 12 years later in 1998.

"Transplanted two times -- kidney lasted 12 years each time. They were both successful transplants. Need to do it again, but I'm stuck," said Checca.

Checca's nephrologist at Latrobe Hospital told Team 4's Jim Parsons that he is ineligible for a third transplant because he has a gum disease and needs at least $10,000 in dental work, which isn't covered by his health insurance.

"I don't have the means to have the dental work done and I don't understand what people in this country are doing. How are people dealing with this issue? Because I'm running into roadblocks everywhere I go," said Checca.

Checca told Parsons that he has dental problems because "22 years of anti-rejection drugs from the prior transplants have caused bad gums."

After speaking with Checca's doctors, health insurance company and transplant specialists, Team 4 has determined that Checca, and others in similar situations, should file a written appeal with his health insurance company over the denial of coverage for his dental work.

He should also get consults from several dentists in hopes of finding one that would be willing to reduce rates or go to a university with a dental school that might be more willing to accept a payment plan.

"I think it's humiliating. To me, it's the same thing as begging. There's no difference than me standing on a corner with a tin cup in my hand saying, 'Hey, help me out. I need money,'" said Checca.

A friend of Checca's is setting up a fundraiser concert for him in North Huntingdon, where Checca serves as an ambulance EMT.

A family member has also established an online fundraiser through the National Transplant Assistance Fund.

Friday Update - Three dentists contacted Channel 4 Action News Friday offering to provide Checca with free dental care to clear the way for his kidney transplant.

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