My name is Kerian Kennedy and I'm a patient of the Heart Failure team at Cornell  since September 2014, when I presented to the emergency room with life threatening pulmonary hypertension.  This is a disease that affects the blood vessels of the lungs and the right heart has to pump against the high pressure.  The only curative measure for pulmonary hypertension is a lung transplant, and I'm being sustained by a 24/7 medication that is provided through an infusion pump.  This type of medication and treatment possibilities do not exist in my home country, Jamaica. 

I'm 34 years old, and a mother to Martina and Mario; who remain in  school, in Jamaica.   While I continue to pursue citizenship, and work with my immigration attorneys; I would love nothing more than the oppertunity to see my children.   Unfortunately, I do not have resources to fly my children to New York for any visits; and I am unable to leave the US to visit home due to my advanced disease.  I would be considered for a lung transplant if I'm allowed to remain in the US.

Please help me and my family during the holiday season, one of giving thanks and gratitude for those we love.  Any small amount will be helpful, Martina, Mario and I are incredibly grateful for the kindess we have received.  Medications and superior medical care are only a portion of the fight, the support of family is just as important in battling chronic illness.  My thanks for hearing my story, and wishing you all the best.  - Kerian
My son Mario (above) and my daughter Martina (below).