Carolyn Louise (Simpson) Word has spent 25 years caring for others as a dedicated registered nurse, always putting her patients first and serving as a true Florence Nightingale for her community. As a first responder during the COVID pandemic, Carolyn was exposed to a double virus that left her with devastating lung damage. Now, at just 63 years old, she requires a double lung transplant and 24/7 care. The effects of her illness have been so severe that she is dependent on a trach tube and has lost much of her independence, unable to do the things she once loved or care for herself as she did for so many others.

Carolyn’s husband has been by her side every step of the way, but the demands of her care have put his job of 30 years at risk. The financial strain is overwhelming, with mounting medical bills and the need for constant home care until Carolyn is strong enough to travel to John Hopkins for her transplant. Every day is critical—Carolyn is on borrowed time, and her health is rapidly declining. She has given everything to her patients and her community, and now she needs help to get the life-saving care she deserves.

Your support will help cover the costs of round-the-clock care, medical expenses, and the journey to John Hopkins for her transplant. By coming together, we can give Carolyn a fighting chance and show her the same compassion she has shown to so many others throughout her life.