As a cadet in the United States Air Force, Robinson was in peak physical condition.

But in October 1987, he came down with a potent strain of the flu. Two months later, he began developing symptoms of Type 1 diabetes, commonly known as juvenile diabetes. Kathy Robinson, his wife, said diabetes can sometimes be triggered by a severe illness or an infection in patients who are genetically predisposed to the disease.

"He lost 25 pounds in six weeks," she said. "And he was underweight already."

Twenty-two years later, Scott Robinson is a different man. He now suffers from both Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes, conditions that have transformed his figure. Complications from the disease have made it almost impossible for him to work since 1998. And now his pancreas, an organ he's had replaced once already, is failing him. "It's taken a huge toll on him emotionally, and his spirits are very poor," Kathy Robinson said.

But Scott's friends are determined not to let his condition rob him of his life.

His most ardent supporters have partnered with the National Foundation for Transplants, a Memphis non-profit group that helps volunteers organize and market fundraisers for patients in need of organ, tissue and bone marrow transplants.

Their goal is to raise at least $275,000 - the cost of the transplant surgery. But their hope is to raise much more.

Scott Robinson was unavailable to comment for this story.

"In Scott's case, he'll have to relocate to get his transplant," said Mandy Scherer, a spokeswoman for the foundation. "He'll have travel expenses, and he and his wife will need temporary lodging."

Not to mention that the Robinsons will be temporarily without an income.

Kathy Robinson plans to take a leave from her job as a nurse to be at her husband's side in Chicago, where Scott is on a waiting list for a new pancreas at the University of Chicago Medical Center.

And after the surgery, the couple will pay thousands each month on post-transplant medications.

The first contribution to Scott's transplant fund is expected later this month.

The Lions Club of Apex has agreed to donate a portion of the proceeds from the organization's annual fish fry to his cause.

"This is our first big event," said Bekki Bennett, a longtime friend of the Robinsons and treasurer of Scott's fundraising campaign. "Once the weather warms up a bit, we'll be doing a lot more."

The fish fry will take place from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. on Friday at the Lila E. Jones Swim Club, 309 Holleman Street.

It's the first step on what the Robinsons know will be a long road.

"Round 2 is a lot harder," Kathy Robinson said. "He remembers what it was like the first time. ... It's a scary process."