A Heart for Tyra

#TyraTough

Hi! My name is Tamika.  I have started this Gofundme page for my niece Tyra, who  is in need of a heart transplant. It is tough asking for help, but we could really use your support during this time. 

Tyra, now 18 years old, was born with congenital heart failure. She had her first heart surgery at only 6 weeks old. She had additional surgeries at 18 months and 4 years old. She has had a total of 7 surgeries since she was born and is on her third pacemaker. She has been able to pull through each time and enjoy a great life because she is tough, TyraTough.

Tyra graduated high school in 2020. Unfortunately, because of Covid, she didn't get to have senior prom or graduation. She went on to attend North Carolina Central University last fall.  Everything was going fairly well until recently when Tyra began to cough a lot, retain fluid and easily become fatigued. She was admitted to hospital several times. The doctors have said she is experiencing heart failure and will need a transplant. She is unable to leave the hospital while she waits due to the condition of her heart.


Why Tyra Needs Your Help

Tyra's mom and her grandmother have been by her side daily keeping her encouraged and in good spirits. They are staying at a hotel right across the street from the hospital. This is the third time Tyra has been admitted to the hospital this year.  We don't know how long it might  take to find a suitable heart for Tyra . There is also an extensive recovery period for heart transplant surgery. Her mom and grandmother are planing to stay at the hotel for the duration.  There will be many expenses and financial challenges during this time including hotel fees, medical bills, and expensive anti-rejection medications that Tyra will take for the rest of her life.  We greatly appreciate your thoughts, prayers, and  financial support. No amount is too small. 

Our family is looking forward to the day when Tyra is healthy, happy and full of energy. She wants to be able to go back to college and graduate and live a full life. I can't wait to have a big family cookout and see her hanging out with all of her cousins with a big smile on her face.

Thank you for taking the time to read about my niece, Tyra. I hope you will consider donating if you are able. Your kindness and generosity are greatly appreciated.