Ben Weinberg, the dedicated founder and President of
tag4life, is on a personal mission to provide financial assistance for medical IDs, ensuring that medically vulnerable individuals have access to these life-saving devices. His unwavering commitment to this cause stems from a profound desire to make a positive impact on the lives of those who need it most, exemplifying his deep compassion and determination to promote health and safety in our communities.
But Who is Ben Weinberg?
Ben is a man of many talents. He holds a law degree. He has an MBA. And he is a celebrated International Food and Wine Writer, which has allowed him to travel the world, judge contests, and write for major food and wine magazines. But at the pinnacle of Ben’s storied career, the unexpected happened. Suddenly, the consummate connoisseur found himself at the beginning of yet another journey. And waiting at the end was a
medical ID for a liver transplant.
Ben’s Remarkable Tale of Resilience, Hope, and the Fight for a Second Chance at Life
Ben’s medical journey began when he was a freshman at Brandeis University. While visiting family for Thanksgiving break, he ended up in the ER. Following a myriad of tests, Ben was diagnosed with Crohn’s disease. He managed his condition for years before being diagnosed with another ailment—primary sclerosing cholangitis (PSC).
With the help of a hepatologist (liver specialist), Ben managed to control his PSC for a decade and avoid a liver transplant. Then, around two years ago, he became very ill. He needed a
liver transplant.
Indications for Liver Transplant: When is it Necessary?
Ben and his team of doctors discussed the next steps in great detail before the decision was made to have his liver transplant surgery at
Mayo Clinic in Phoenix, Arizona. Sadly, Ben’s liver transplant failed. His team of doctors believed it was due to transplant complications, not rejection. At a crossroads, Ben was unsure of what to do, until it became clear that a second liver transplant was necessary.
Embracing Second Chances: Celebrating Life After Transplantation
By the time Ben arrived at Mayo Clinic, he was extremely ill. But thanks to the amazing transplantation team at Mayo Clinic, his second liver transplant was a success. Ben credits the exceptional team at Mayo Clinic and his wife’s role as a caregiver for his successful recovery.
Post-Transplant Recovery: Navigating Challenges and Adjusting to a New Normal
Although liver transplantation saves lives, complications such as
hepatic encephalopathy (also known as “surgery brain”), vascular issues,
blood clots, biliary conditions, and a compromised immune system can arise. Ben experienced them all and then some. This led strict diet and lifestyle changes, which meant Ben could no longer participate in wine tastings, dine on rich foods, or continue his amazing career as a food and wine writer. That part of Ben’s life was over, so he set out to find a new purpose.
Bridging the Gap: Post-Transplant to Safety and Peace of Mind
Ben knew the importance of wearing a medical ID for liver transplant, and the peace of mind it gave him. Knowing this, Ben was stunned to discover that so many post-transplant individuals lived without this life-saving device. Ben soon realized that he could be that bridge between post-transplant and emergency care. That’s when tag4life was born—and where Ben found his purpose. He knew this simple solution could save lives and that wearing a
medical ID for liver transplant isn’t just a suggestion—it’s a
vital lifeline.
Gratitude and Advocacy: Ben’s Mission to Raise Awareness about Medical IDs for Liver Transplant
Incorporated as a nonprofit on March 28, 2023,
tag4life works closely with the team at Mayo Clinic to help liver transplant recipients obtain a
medical ID. This way, these courageous survivors can live a full life with 24/7 protection. Tag4life is also about education, empowerment, protection, and ultimately creating a community where understanding, safety, and support meet.
Exploring the Diversity and Versatility of tag4life
What makes tag4life truly special is its board of directors who are all liver transplant survivors. This collective team has catapulted tag4life’s vision beyond individual stories. The dedication of these survivors is a testament to the organization’s mission, which has grown bigger than any one person.
tag4life has given the board members a purpose—to give back to a community that needs support. And this support doesn’t stop at liver transplant survivors.
tag4life believes that everyone, regardless of their medical condition, deserves the assurance of having their vital information readily available in case of an emergency. Their dedication to inclusivity and accessibility sets them apart, ensuring that everyone can benefit from the peace of mind that a medical ID for liver transplant provides.
The tag4life mission statement speaks volumes:
To shine a powerful light on medically vulnerable people who, for whatever reason, can’t speak for themselves – no questions asked.
Unlocking Peace of Mind: The Perfect Pairing—MedicAlert and tag4life
MedicAlert is the original creator of the medical ID and emergency response system. Since 1956, MedicAlert has been established as the ultimate expert in medical identification. Similar to tag4life, MedicAlert began with the same purpose. Dr. Marion Collins,
MedicAlert’s founding father, wanted a simple solution to protect his daughter from a life-threatening allergy.
We have partnered with tag4life to help create a network of protection, ensuring that those who are medically vulnerable can confidently navigate life’s challenges and live a safe and fulfilling life—one
MedicAlert ID at a time.
If you’d like to support tag4life and their life-saving mission, follow this link to donate:
tag4life Donation.