Zaria got new Lungs!!!
Donation protected
Zaria, (Kim Benedict), is my daughter; a young woman, was in her prime when diagnosed with a chronic lung disease called Lymphangiolyomyomatosis. She had a double lung transplant on May 10, 2018. See Zaria's full story below.
Lymphangioleiomyomatosis (lim-FAN-je-o-LI-o-MI-o-ma-TO-sis) is a rare lung disease that usually strikes women during the prime of their lives. Known as LAM, this disease is characterized by an abnormal growth of smooth muscle cells, especially in the lungs, lymphatic system and kidneys. There are two forms of LAM, Sporadic LAM (S-LAM) and Tuberous Sclerosis LAM (TSC-LAM)”, (The LAM Foundation). She still has Sporadic LAM. In March of 2007 I went to the hospital in the middle of the night coughing up blood and terrified. In my mind this was a very bad case of pneumonia; (I had been mis-diagnosed with chronic pneumonia since I was nine years old). After three months of tests, finally a ct scan. Before we could get the results, I had the first of 13 collapsed lungs. When you get a diagnosis like that it is like being hit by a brick wall. “Do you have any questions? Are you ok?” The pulmonologist ended. Drying my eyes, I’m looking at everyone as they were overwhelmed by this crushing news. Finally I spoke. “My God is bigger than LAM!!!”. Again I scan the room. My mom, sister, niece (all in tears) and my pastor smiling. Yes, my God is bigger than LAM!!! You see God had already prepared, in advance, circumstances that go beyond my comprehension. Despite all that has happened, I have been well taken care of. Since then I have had too many hospital stays to recall them all, twelve more collapsed lungs, double lung transplant and nearly died on several occasions. But, my God is bigger than LAM! In 2007, (the year of the diagnosis), I was bed ridden three to four days a week. I couldn’t even lift 5lbs. Today I have new lungs! The healing process from a double lung transplant is very long and tedious. I am still gaining strength and stamina. The funds raised through this go fund me my account will continue to go directly towards the on-going medical expenses. While I remain disabled there are still expenses that are not covered that I can not afford, (trips to Stanford every 1-2 months, prescription co-pays on most of my 21-23 medications, additional support items like braces for my ankle and knees, and the list goes on...). I don’t know what we would have done without so much love and support from all of you! I do hope to return to work eventually! I also need your prayers! This process has been extremely taxing. We’ve had quite a few setbacks, however, I am fortunate to have rebounded well. As of today I have not experienced rejection, praise God! I am walking lots, running a little and staying healthy. God’s got me. Your support means more to me than words can ever express! I am humbled and encouraged by all you give! Thank you and God bless you!!!
Lymphangioleiomyomatosis (lim-FAN-je-o-LI-o-MI-o-ma-TO-sis) is a rare lung disease that usually strikes women during the prime of their lives. Known as LAM, this disease is characterized by an abnormal growth of smooth muscle cells, especially in the lungs, lymphatic system and kidneys. There are two forms of LAM, Sporadic LAM (S-LAM) and Tuberous Sclerosis LAM (TSC-LAM)”, (The LAM Foundation). She still has Sporadic LAM. In March of 2007 I went to the hospital in the middle of the night coughing up blood and terrified. In my mind this was a very bad case of pneumonia; (I had been mis-diagnosed with chronic pneumonia since I was nine years old). After three months of tests, finally a ct scan. Before we could get the results, I had the first of 13 collapsed lungs. When you get a diagnosis like that it is like being hit by a brick wall. “Do you have any questions? Are you ok?” The pulmonologist ended. Drying my eyes, I’m looking at everyone as they were overwhelmed by this crushing news. Finally I spoke. “My God is bigger than LAM!!!”. Again I scan the room. My mom, sister, niece (all in tears) and my pastor smiling. Yes, my God is bigger than LAM!!! You see God had already prepared, in advance, circumstances that go beyond my comprehension. Despite all that has happened, I have been well taken care of. Since then I have had too many hospital stays to recall them all, twelve more collapsed lungs, double lung transplant and nearly died on several occasions. But, my God is bigger than LAM! In 2007, (the year of the diagnosis), I was bed ridden three to four days a week. I couldn’t even lift 5lbs. Today I have new lungs! The healing process from a double lung transplant is very long and tedious. I am still gaining strength and stamina. The funds raised through this go fund me my account will continue to go directly towards the on-going medical expenses. While I remain disabled there are still expenses that are not covered that I can not afford, (trips to Stanford every 1-2 months, prescription co-pays on most of my 21-23 medications, additional support items like braces for my ankle and knees, and the list goes on...). I don’t know what we would have done without so much love and support from all of you! I do hope to return to work eventually! I also need your prayers! This process has been extremely taxing. We’ve had quite a few setbacks, however, I am fortunate to have rebounded well. As of today I have not experienced rejection, praise God! I am walking lots, running a little and staying healthy. God’s got me. Your support means more to me than words can ever express! I am humbled and encouraged by all you give! Thank you and God bless you!!!
Organizer
Zariakilah Nyaholu
Organizer
Citrus Heights, CA
