Hello, my name is Anthony Rosa.

The short story I am about to share with you is all about my sister, Ashley Rosa.

Ashley, when she was at the vulnerable age of 13 years old, she contracted a disease called Lupus. Unfortunately, her struggle since adolescence is incurable, and progressively worsens. It depletes the normal function of vital organs. The symptoms are heart, kidney, and liver failure. Although, she never complains. She cries quietly daily, due to unimaginable pain.

On September 21, 2023, Ashley received a life changing call from her Physician. Informing after 15 years on the transplant wait list, the hospital confirmed they had possession of a heart and kidney organ(s) match! In a moment’s notice, with feverish haste we arrived at University California San Francisco (UCSF) hospital emergency room. The Doctor(s) and Nurse(s) staff were immediately prepared for surgery.

The Heart Transplant surgery took 6 hours. The Kidney transplant took an additional 3 hours. UCSF Doctor(s) by their side Nurse(s), personalized an announcement the surgery was a success. I thank the LORD, Doctor(s) and Nurse(s) a thousand times. It would NOT be enough time(s) to thank them all for their magnificence. Without them her survival would NOT be possible. Our family thank(s) all with gratitude for their professionalism and amazing work. My sister lives another day!

Nine days after surgery was the first day, she was more conscious. She started texting more frequently. Checking in for her girl’s wellbeing, vitals and numbers are on track. Doctor(s) is thrilled. They come in-out to check on her frequently. The Doctor(s) advised Ashley to stay close to the hospital for at least 6 weeks after discharge. In prevention of occurrence of complications and where she can be closely monitored.

Ashley lives in Foresthill about 4 hours away from the hospital. Six weeks in San Francisco would be a financial hardship for someone like her who currently collects disability income only. After care assistance, medical expenses, and living expenses are impossible tasks for her to do alone. If you could find in your heart to donate for her cause and road back to recovery. Any donation would be deeply appreciated.

Thank you so much for taking the time to read Ashley’s story.

Update: 10/10/23

Hello, I just wanted to give an update on my sister Ashley. She did have a minor complication after surgery. There was some fluid building up around the heart and Ashley was having a hard time breathing. The doctors had to do an emergency surgery to drain the fluid. The doctors did drain all the fluid but wanted her in the hospital a little longer than expected to closely monitor her. The medical team said the fluid build up was from the inflammation from surgery. The good news is there was no more fluid building up after they drained it.

Ashley is now out of the hospital and living in the aftercare home where she has a caretaker with her 24 hours a day. She will be there for the next 6 weeks and will still have to be closely monitored. Ashley will continue to see the doctors, have biopsies and bloodwork done a few times a week. Today she is doing well and is in good spirits. Everyday Ashley has been improving and getting stronger.

Thank you to everyone that has donated so far. It has helped Ashley tremendously through this recovery process and she is very thankful.

Here are some updated photos of Ashley and her recovery: