Support for Scott O'Neill and Family
My husband's cousins have always been the siblings he never had. His cousin, Scott O'Neill, was always very active: a skilled athlete, a devoted husband to his wife, Chrissy Root O'Neill, and doting father to his sons Brendan and Tyler. All of that changed when Scott began battling colitis in 1999. He was eventually diagnosed with Crohn's disease following surgery in 2007. Years of intensive treatments took their toll and Scott developed bronchiectasis, a debilitating lung condition which makes it hard for the airways to clear mucus and leads to frequent infections. Over the past few years Scott has been hospitalized multiple times for pneumonia, including three septic episodes. His lung capacity now only functions at 20-30% and he is largely oxygen dependent.
Scott's illness has cost him and family so much over the years, both emotionally and financially. They have missed out on too many special events to count. Scott even missed both of his sons' high school graduations because he wasn't well enough to attend. His wife Chrissy has been the sole provider for her family since 2008. As a coordinator for home health care services for the elderly, she worked long hours throughout the pandemic to ensure that her clients received the care they needed. Chrissy also juggles Scott's medical appointments, unexpected hospitalizations, and has put in many hours as an enthusiastic Hockey Mom over the years. The covid pandemic added an extra layer of fear to their stressful lives as they did everything in their power to ensure that Scott was not exposed to the virus.
Scott's medical team has recently advised him that his only chance for a meaningful recovery is to receive a double lung transplant, a procedure which can cost upwards of $1.3 million and will incur numerous out of pocket expenses for his family. He has begun the arduous process of pursuing a transplant, completing a battery of tests and pulmonary rehab to ensure that he an appropriate candidate. Scott requires extensive dental work before he can qualify for transplant: this is necessary to prevent oral infections which would jeopardize his health once transplant is under way. His house is in need of substantial repairs to ensure he has a safe living space to further protect him from contracting life threatening infections, especially post transplant. The most time sensitive and crucial repairs include completion of a new roof, replacement of rotted support beams, and reparation of asbestos shingles used on their siding.
As an oncology nurse at Boston Children's Hospital for the past 22 years, I've witnessed the impact that chronic and life threatening illness takes on families. The emotional burden and financial strain can be devastating. It's heartbreaking to watch this happen to members of my own family. If their story touches you and you want to help a hard working family who only wants the chance to finally experience a healthy life together, even the smallest donation can make a difference. Small gestures can be life altering. Thank you for anything you can contribute to help Scott and his family as they face this immensely challenging time. We are so appreciative and grateful. If you have ideas to assist them in other ways please feel free to message me directly. Please share their story widely across social media or through the provided
link for those without access to such platforms. Thank you!!!
gofundme.com/f/f22226f6