Help Karla Breathe Easier During This Difficult Time

**Introduction:**

My name is Joshua Pestaner. I am 40 years old and live with a condition known as Marfan Syndrome. The purpose of this GoFundMe initiative is to provide support for my beloved wife, Karla Pestaner.

**Current Situation:**

I am about to undergo my fourth heart surgery. Throughout all my medical challenges, Karla, my incredible and supportive wife, has been a constant presence. She has not only survived alongside me but has also taken on the roles of my full-time caretaker, head of our household, primary breadwinner, and full-time worker. My most recent heart surgery was just three months ago, on October 1st. Unfortunately, my job was unable to accommodate the extensive leave I required for recovery.

**Karla's Unwavering Support:**

Despite all odds, Karla has managed everything with grace and resilience, supported by some remaining funds. I had been recovering well and had even secured job interviews. I was overjoyed because my financial resources were depleted, and I was feeling physically strong. I was ready to contribute once again to our household and alleviate some of the stress on my dear wife. However, I recently received a call from my surgeon informing me that my aorta had rapidly enlarged (aneurysm), necessitating another surgery in the coming week to repair it.

**Request for Support:**

Staying positive, I am determined to make it through this surgery and achieve a full recovery, which, God willing, will take approximately three months. At this critical juncture, I kindly seek the support of my family, friends, acquaintances, and the community to help ease some of the financial burdens on Karla. This is the least, yet unfortunately, the most I can do for her at this moment, aside from fighting through the surgery. Below is additional information about my condition and history, and more importantly, how my extraordinary wife, whom I adore with all my heart, has been instrumental in my journey thus far. Thank you for any contributions. Be great.

**Marfan Syndrome:**

Marfan Syndrome is an inherited disorder that affects connective tissue—the fibers that support and anchor organs and other structures in the body. It most commonly affects the heart, eyes, blood vessels, and skeleton.

**My Journey:**

I was born with this condition but was undiagnosed until 2018 when I experienced an aortic dissection. By the grace of God and with Karla's insistence, I promised to return to her after the surgery, and I did. Karla remained by my side throughout the ordeal, caring for me at Washington Hospital, enduring uncomfortable and hard reclining chairs, while also working full-time, being a full-time student at Georgetown University pursuing her Master's degree, and managing our home and children. Her dedication is a testament to her incredible strength and love.

**Karla's Dedication:**

My wife is one of the smartest, most hardworking, and beautiful people I have ever known. She connected a previous heart surgery I had in 2011 with other characteristics to hypothesize that I had Marfan Syndrome. Her hypothesis was initially dismissed by my surgeon but was eventually validated by a geneticist. Her research and persistence were life-saving.

**Her Contribution:**

With her insatiable quest for knowledge, Karla discovered the condition and saved my life. Without her intervention, I would have continued my previous lifestyle, which could have been fatal. She has guided me and our children, who also share the condition, towards better nutrition and medical care. With her help, our children may never have to endure what I have, God willing.

**Final Request:**

I humbly request your support during this challenging time. Your contributions will help alleviate some of the financial stress on Karla and provide much-needed relief to our family. Thank you for your generosity and support.