Hi everyone,

I never imagined I’d have to write something like this, but my family truly needs help right now. My stepfather’s heart is only working at 15%, and without a major surgery called an LVAD procedure, doctors say he has less than six months to live.

He’s always been the rock of our family — strong, hardworking, and always taking care of everyone else. Now, for the first time, he’s the one who needs help. Because of his condition, doctors have told him it’s impossible for him to work. My mom, who’s been by his side through every appointment, will also have to stop working to care for him full-time.

The surgery can only be done at Emory Hospital in Atlanta, which means they will have to travel and stay there during this life-changing operation and his recovery. With his heart functioning so weakly, doctors say there’s only a 50/50 chance he will survive the surgery.

Unfortunately, due to other existing health conditions, he is not eligible for a heart transplant — meaning this LVAD surgery is his only chance to keep living.

After surgery, he will remain heavily sedated while my mom must stay with him 24/7 to make sure he’s safe and comfortable. During this time, they’ll still have bills to pay, food and travel costs to cover, and no income coming in. We’re asking for help — any amount, big or small — to help ease the financial stress so they can focus on what really matters: his fight to live.

❤️ For Those Who Don’t Know: What Is a LVAD Surgery?

An LVAD (Left Ventricular Assist Device) is a mechanical heart pump that helps the left side of the heart pump blood more effectively. It’s used when someone’s heart is too weak to do it on its own, usually in people with severe heart failure who no longer respond to regular treatments — and in cases like my stepfather’s, when a heart transplant isn’t an option.

Here’s what happens during the surgery:

• The surgery is open-heart and takes about 4–6 hours.

• The surgeon opens the chest and stops the heart while a heart-lung machine keeps the body alive.

• The LVAD device is placed next to the heart — one part connects to the heart’s main chamber and the other to the main artery that sends blood through the body.

• Once it’s implanted, the incision is closed and the heart-lung machine is turned off.

Recovery:

After surgery, patients usually stay in the hospital for 7–10 days. They’re monitored closely, treated to prevent infection, and begin learning how to live with the LVAD.

Benefits:

• It can greatly improve heart function

• Reduce symptoms like shortness of breath and fatigue

• Extend life expectancy

• Allow patients to regain some independence

Risks:

Because this is a major surgery, it carries serious risks such as bleeding, infection, stroke, or even death.

We’re praying for the best possible outcome, and we’re holding on to hope. ❤️

If you can donate, please do — even a few dollars helps. And if you can’t, please share this page and keep our family in your prayers. Your kindness, generosity, and love mean more than words can ever express.

Thank you from the bottom of our hearts,

Tierra & Family