Lung Transplant

I was diagnosed with PAH in 2011 (Pulmonary hypertension affects arteries in the lungs and the right side of the heart.) after my sister passed of it the year prior. At the beginning, the plan of action was to monitor it; a doctor's appointment every three to four months, an annual echocardiogram and finally, a right heart catheterization. This treatment plan worked until late 2015, when I became symptomatic. I started getting short of breath more often, making everything from showering to getting dressed a difficult task. I was hospitalized March the following year, as I was starting to undergo heart failure. During my stay, I started on seven medications, a central line was placed, and I lost 70 lbs of water weight. Despite the best efforts of my medical professionals, it is now 2018 and the medications I am on are no longer improving my condition. I have been staying in hospitals periodically for nearly seven months. During these stays, I have been on 5 rounds of antibiotics, had 2 central lines, and was put on oxygen support. Even after adjusting the treatment to incorporate these things, my health has remained stagnant. Because of this, the only way I can survive is to receive a dual lung transplant. There is no set date for the surgery, when they have a match for me, I will be notified with motion to move forward. They are trying to get the transplant done while my heart and I are still strong. My doctor is extremely adamant about doing the surgery soon.

It’s nerve racking but I’m excited to have a new life.

I would sincerely appreciate your help in assuring that I have the financial means to support myself in what is to come. Your donations will help me with medical cost, medical equipment, insurance, a living space closer to the hospital for the first 3+ months during recovery, parking, transportation (the bus or gas), food during hospital dates and more.

Thank you for reading and sharing my story!