Becky's Journey for New Lungs and Life

From Becky-

I’ve had a blessed life and God has been good. In August of 2021 I tested positive for Covid, I thought no big deal. Very quickly I couldn’t get my breath, Larry took me to Union Co. ER. I was admitted and watched closely, my O2 stats were dipping into the 70’s. At 2:00 am I was transferred to Deaconess Midtown ICU, there 3 days and in a room for 15 more days. Of course no visitors, that makes you feel so alone. The time came for dismissal and I had to go home on oxygen, that alone is a life changer. Little did I know that the big change was coming. I soon was diagnosed with interstitial lung disease and pulmonary hypertension, there’s no cure, just pray to keep it stable. I will never get better and may have 4 yrs. left. I’m on oxygen 24/7, that alone has been a big adjustment. In one of my Dr’s appointments, the words lung transplant was mentioned. My immediate thought was, no absolutely not. Over time I met some wonderful new friends, they were successful transplant patients, some new and others 10 yrs post transplant. They encouraged me to at least be evaluated, so on Feb.14th I told my Dr. I was ready to be evaluated.

Things happened fast! My first visit to Vanderbilt was March 3-5, then we went April14-18 & 22-24. After extensive testing I was approved by the Transplant team.

Now, the cost is big and we’ll have to live in Nashville 3 months post transplant. The cost of apartments start at $3500, plus we’ll have gas, groceries, many new rejection meds., plus all the medical bills.

My motivation for double lung transplant are my grandchildren. Our girls will remember me, but Judah and baby girl on the way in July will not. A successful surgery will give me many years, with them.

Any personal or church love offerings will be so appreciated. Fund raisers would be great too.Most of all your prayers are priceless and much needed.

God Bless and Thanks!

Becky & Larry.