Help Heal David's Heart

In the Fall of 2009, David had a lingering cough and shortness of breath. He was treated for bronchitis for several months because he was an otherwise healthy 25 year old man. In December 2009, he was urged by relatives to go to the hospital because of his worsening symptoms. He was admitted to the hospital and diagnosed with heart failure. He spent the next few months getting acclimated to his new heart medications and ICD. Thankfully, for the last 8 years, he was able to manage the symptoms with medication alone. David and his wife were living the suburban dream--a little white house, a 3 year old daughter and a dog-sized cat.

 However, in November 2017 he began to feel ill and was admitted to the hospital again. After some testing he got the news that his heart failure had progressed to the "advanced" category and could no longer be managed on medications alone. In a few days, he will have surgery to implant a Ventricular Assist Device to help his heart pump more effectively. This surgery will allow him to have the cardiac support he needs at home, but the recovery time could be anywhere from 6-12 weeks.

David hasn't been able to work since November due to his advanced heart failure. As much as David and his wife want to try and tackle this themselves, they are having to swallow their pride and ask for help. The medical bills are already coming in. While he does have insurance, some things aren't covered--like medical transport, genetic testing, prescription copays, etc. These bills are starting to add up and will continue to do so with each passing day in the hospital.

David is also being evaluated by specialists at VCU to determine whether or not he is a candidate for a heart transplant. If approved, the average wait time for a heart for someone his size and blood type is about 2-5 years. If David is approved for a heart transplant, his family will need the financial assistance to help pay for the portions of the transplant not covered by insurance.

Although the last few months have turned their world upside down, they are trying to take it one day at a time. They are already overwhelmed by the amount of support from family, friends and the staff at The Pauley Heart Center at VCU. By alleviating some of the stress that comes with this financial burden, they can focus their energy on David's recovery. His family is ready to have him home!

The funds that you help us raise will go right to David's wife Jackie to use for all of David's medical expenses!

Thank you!