Lee Lusk Lungs Transplant

My father, Lee, was recently diagnosed with IPF (Idiopathic Pulmonary Fibrosis) after years of repeated misdiagnosis.  His doctor's believe that he has had this disease for more than 10 years and his life-long career as a professional painter has accelerated it's effects.

This disease causes scar tissue to build up in the lungs and is irreversible.  There is no cure for the disease and treatments only slow it down.

Since is wasn't detected early enough treatments are no longer an option.  He has been told that he has lost over 50% of his lung capacity and it is progressing rapidly.  He struggles to breath just walking across a room.

His doctors have told him that without a double-lung transplant he may only have a year at most to live.

He has had numerous tests to determine if he is even physically able to undergo the procedure and luckily his doctors have given the green light to move forward.  They hope that by the end of October they can proceed.

We are starting this campaign not so much for the medical bills (which will be astronomical for sure) but for the his living expenses after the surgery.  Insurance will not help with these costs.

After the surgery my dad will have to remain close to the hospital for observation and recovery.  Unfortunately, the only hospital that can perform this surgery is 3 hours from his home. 

He will have to live in temporary housing until he is cleared.  My mother will be staying with him as his caretaker.  They've been told that it could be up to 3 months before he is cleared to go home.

Any donations will be greatly appreciated and will be used for living expenses.  Any remaining funds will go towards medical bills.

If you have experienced a similar situation and can offer any suggestions or guidance please send me a message.

Our whole family extends our deepest gratitude and appreciation for anything you can give to help us through this difficult time.

Thank you,

Tracey