Big-Hearted Boss To Donate Kidney To Employee

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Marcus Gilbert to give his 16-year-old employee a kidney & new shot at life

September 23, 2008 // Franchising.com // Orem, UT — On September 12, Marcus Gilbert, a Utah-area Charley's Grilled Subs franchisee will take the day off from cooking Philly Steaks to donate a kidney to his 16-year-old employee, Juan Delgado.

Juan's battle with End Stage Renal Failure or Chronic Kidney Disease began three years ago. Although health problems made it difficult for Juan to work, Marcus hired him on about six months ago at his Charley's in University Mall (Orem, Utah).

Shortly after starting work at Charley's, Juan learned he needed a kidney transplant. Marcus and his entire team began fundraising to help Juan's family with medical expenses. No one in Juan's family was a match, so Marcus got tested, found out he was a match, and, without hesitation, agreed to donate his kidney.

"This is an amazing story of brotherly love," shares Charley Shin, CEO and founder of Charley's Grilled Subs®. "We are so proud to have an extended family that serves each other - and the community - with such compassion. Marcus' dedication serves as an inspiration to us all."

Delgado's medical expenses are estimated to exceed $100,000. Consequently, a fund has been established with the Northwest Kidney Transplant Fund, a nonprofit organization that raises money exclusively for noninsured expenses. Donations can be made in Juan Delgado's name by calling 800-642-8399, by visiting www.transplantfund.org or by sending donations directly to the National Transplant Assistance Fund (For Juan Delgado) at 150 N. Radnor Chester Road, Suite F-120, Radnor, PA 19087.

About Charley's Grilled Subs

Ohio-based Charley's Grilled Subs, has over 350 locations 39 states and 12 countries. Founded in 1986, Charley's Grilled Subs® is best known for its fresh grilled Philly Steak & Chicken subs, gourmet fries and flavored lemonades. More than 90 percent of Charley's Grilled Subs® restaurants are independently owned and operated by local franchisees. The restaurant chain has been recognized at the top of more than ten national lists for successful franchising, entrepreneurship and management.

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