A Helping Hand for a Lung Transplant Journey

​My Story

​My name is Kristen, and I'm 50 years old. I've been married to my best friend for 13 years, and we have two incredible children, ages 11 and 15. In May, I was hospitalized for what was initially thought to be pneumonia. After a series of tests, my team at the Mayo Clinic gave me a life-changing diagnosis: Desquamative Interstitial Pneumonia (DIP) with pulmonary fibrosis. Genetic testing suggests this condition may be hereditary.

​This diagnosis means my lungs are severely scarred, making it difficult to breathe. I am now on supplemental oxygen 24/7. My medical team has recommended a lung transplant, and I began the evaluation process in September 2025. While this is a necessary step full of hope, it comes with immense uncertainty and significant financial burdens.

​I want to live. I want to be there for my children's milestones—to watch them graduate, to help my daughter choose her wedding gown, and to share a dance with my son at his future wedding. I want to hold my husband's hand and experience all the moments we dreamed of together, from becoming empty nesters to welcoming our grandchildren. Most of all, I want to keep making memories with my family and friends.

​The Financial Burden

​The path to a lung transplant is long and costly. As I begin the lengthy process of testing and evaluation, we're facing a number of expenses. We were advised by the transplant social worker that we will need to have a savings account for transplant related costs and she recommends starting a GoFundMe to patients to assist in helping to raise these funds. Part of the evaluation is to look at the financial toll and ability of transplant and she encouraged us to get started in planning. I do have medical insurance, but there if there is ever a lapse in coverage there needs to be a back up plan and there is a lot of transplant related costs that are not covered by insurance. Currently, my husband Dave is working 2 jobs and I was just approved for disability (end of September 2025).

Some of the expenses we need to plan for include:

• ​Travel and Logistics: We live more than an hour from the Mayo Clinic. Frequent, all-day appointments mean significant costs for gas, parking, and meals.

• ​Temporary Housing: We'll need to find a place to stay near the hospital for appointments and testing. This is critical, as we are required to stay near the hospital for several months after the transplant for monitoring and rehabilitation.

• ​Medical Costs: My condition requires a lifetime of ongoing medications and medical supplies that aren't fully covered by insurance.

• ​Post-Surgery Supplies: To prepare for my recovery, I've created an Amazon Wish List with items I'll need, such as specific medical supplies, comfortable clothing, and items for the temporary housing.

• ​Lost Wages and Daily Expenses: My husband, Dave, has been my rock through all of this. He will need to take time off work to be with me during appointments and will have to take a leave of absence for at least 2-3 months after the transplant to be my primary caregiver. Your support will help us cover daily living expenses, household bills, and care for our children while I'm recovering.

​How You Can Help

​Every donation, no matter the size, will directly help us cover these costs, easing our financial stress so we can focus on my health and the long road ahead.

​If you are unable to donate, please consider sharing this campaign. Spreading the word is just as valuable and greatly appreciated.

​We also welcome your prayers as we navigate this journey.

​Thank you for your kindness, generosity, and support during this incredibly challenging time.