Help James Get a Life-Saving Lung Transplant

Hello, my name is James Fitzgerald. I’m a U.S. Army veteran who proudly served in Iraq during Operation Desert Shield and Desert Storm (1990–1991). During my service, I was exposed to toxic chemicals from “burn pits,” where a variety of hazardous materials were burned. Over time, that exposure has taken a devastating toll on my health.

I was later diagnosed with Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD), a severe respiratory condition that has made it increasingly difficult for me to breathe, work, or move around without assistance. I’ve been on disability for over three years as my condition continues to worsen.

Recently, I received the news no one ever wants to hear: I need a lung transplant to survive. While I’m able to cover my basic living expenses like rent and food, I simply cannot afford the enormous cost of the transplant and the ongoing medical care that comes with it.

The Department of Veterans Affairs has not yet ruled on my service-connected disability claim, which means I currently have no financial support from the VA to help cover these medical expenses.

I’ve done my best to research the potential costs, and while I hope the final amount will be less, this isn’t just about money—it’s about saving my life. I’m doing everything I can to pursue the care I need without losing everything I’ve worked for.

Any donation, no matter the size, will make a tremendous difference and bring me one step closer to getting the transplant that could give me a second chance at life.

Thank you for taking the time to read my story and for any support you can offer—whether it’s through a donation or by sharing this campaign with others.

With gratitude,

James Fitzgerald