At 45 years old, I was diagnosed with a heart condition at Southern Maine Medical Center and was told I only had 5 years to live. At 51, I sought a second opinion in Boston, where doctors recommended gastric sleeve surgery to improve my condition.

I successfully underwent the surgery, and as a result, was offered a cutting-edge heart device, one of only 30 devices to be distributed in the U.S.

In October 2016, I became one of the first to receive this new device. It was expected to last between 5 and 10 years.

The device was part of a blind study involving 60 patients-30 who received the device and 30 who did not. I was among the first 30 people to receive it.

Now, at age 59, I need a new device called the CCM (Cardiac Contractile Modulation), made by Impulse Dynamics, to continue my fight against congestive heart failure (HFpEF).

My doctor believes I should receive the device sooner to improve my quality of life, as waiting would significantly impact my health.

I never ask for help, even when I needed it the most. But right now, I am asking to be able to live longer and spend more time with my children and grandchildren.

Every dollar brings us closer to giving me a second chance. Please donate whatever you can, and if you're unable to, sharing this page could make all the difference. Please reach out to me with any questions or additional support. The money raised will be used to pay for the device and surgery as well as travel expenses and recovery time.