Help Michael Flaherty Breathe Easier Again

Title: Help Michael Flaherty Recover from a Double Lung Transplant

Introduction:

Hello, my name is Barb/Barbie/Barbara Ferrara Petersen it depends on who you talk to, ha ha. I am helping Mike, Mary, Kristy and Mark set up a fundraising campaign to support Mike during the challenging recovery process he is facing from double lung transplant surgery. Your support will make a huge difference to their family during this critical time.

Background:

For the past 7 years, Mike has been living with a severe lung condition that has significantly impacted his quality of life. Despite numerous tests and treatments, the root cause remained elusive until it was determined that his lungs were under attack by Rheumatoid Arthritis, a rare and severe manifestation of the disease. As a result, Mike has been included in a research study to help medical professionals understand more about this uncommon condition. Despite the efforts of countless doctors and numerous hospital visits, Mike's condition progressively worsened, making it increasingly difficult for him to breathe, work, and live a normal life.

After exhaustive consultations with various medical professionals, Mike was referred to Mass General Hospital. Here, the team felt confident that he was a candidate for a double lung transplant. To qualify, Mike had to undertake significant lifestyle changes, including losing over 100 pounds and stopping alcohol consumption. With tremendous determination, Mike achieved these goals, and the wait for a donor lung began.

The road to this point has been bumpy including a bout with COVID a year ago that set him back tremendously. The consideration to give up was real but his grandkids, Kevin and Ben, have given Mike the needed strength and motivation to fight hard and continue to live.

The Transplant Journey:

On July 10, 2024, Mike underwent a life-saving double lung transplant, offering him the chance for a healthier and longer life. While everyone is incredibly grateful for this opportunity, the road to recovery is long and filled with challenges. Mike will spend several weeks in the hospital, followed by an extended stay at a rehabilitation facility where he will continue his journey toward recovery.

Recovery and Financial Need:

Recovering from a double lung transplant requires extensive medical care, including:

These medical expenses, along with the costs of daily living and reduced income during this period, have created a significant financial burden. Mike and his family are doing everything they can to manage these costs, but they need your help.

How You Can Help:

Your generous donation will directly support MIke’s recovery in the following ways:

Every contribution, no matter the size, brings Mike one step closer to a full recovery and a brighter future. Your support means the world to the family, providing not just financial relief but also hope and encouragement during this difficult time.

Thank You:

We all are profoundly grateful for your kindness, generosity, and compassion. Your support is a lifeline that helps Mike navigate this challenging journey. Thank you for being part of the recovery and helping Mike breathe easier again. All money will go toward medical bills and any expenses he and the family incur.

With heartfelt gratitude,

Barbie