Hello,

This GoFundMe campaign is being launched on behalf of our sister/mother/wife/aunt and friend, Kimmie Short. We are reaching out earnestly with heavy hearts and hopeful spirits.

Her Journey:

This journey is one she is all too familiar with, having walked it with her mother 25 years ago. Kimmie was diagnosed at a much earlier stage than her mom and that helped us all stay positive and look to a future with her in it. But the fear of what would lie ahead remained.

Kimmie is the mother of 3 who loves spending time with her children and giving them all her love & support. She has always been the life of the party and a true social butterfly. Instantly ready to host a party or invite friends to join her around a warm fire and perhaps enjoy a cocktail or two. Sadly, the progression of her condition has taken away these simple pleasures in the recent months.

The Diagnosis:

It all began with a routine bone scan for cancer, one of many battles Kimmie has endured and conquered. An x-ray taken to confirm a fractured rib revealed suspected fibrosis in both her lungs. A CT scan and pulmonary fitness test confirmed the diagnosis, leading to a whirlwind of information and further testing. The timeline for IPF is unpredictable, but when first diagnosed, she was given an optimistic 3-5 years before an inevitable transplant would be the only option for her survival. And in true Kimmie style, she pushed on, determined to make the most of every moment!

The Transplant List:

By February 2024, her disease had progressed substantially. Numerous trips to Toronto General Hospital followed, and in April, she began the process with the transplant unit. Many additional trips to Toronto with more tests, meetings and assessments were required to ensure a successful match when the time came. Thankfully, she was placed on the transplant list on March 25th of this year.

Current Situation:

Three weeks ago Kimmie was taken by ambulance to Guelph General Hospital when her daughters were unable to stabilize her oxygen levels after simply getting her ready for bed. Her condition continued to decline while there and an emergent decision was made to intubate and transfer her to Toronto. She is currently under the care of the ICU and Transplant teams to best determine the best next steps.

As you can imagine, this rapid decline and sudden relocation to Toronto has presented her family with not only an extreme emotional challenge, but also a heavy financial burden. Your support could alleviate some of the financial strain and allow them to be near her.

Thank you for taking the time to read her story. Your support means the world to us, and we are grateful for any contribution you can make. Together, we can make a difference and help her family through this difficult time.

Any amount you are willing to contribute is greatly appreciated and if you are unable to contribute, sharing this GoFundMe would be greatly appreciated.

By the way, Kimmie’s last words before being intubated were, “I’m going to the beach with a margarita, I’ll see you soon.”