Hi,

My name is Nicole. My medical journey started in 2016. I had congestive heart failure. I was hospitalized for almost five months. When I first woke up, I was paralyzed and couldn't speak. Everything was compromised, particularly my heart, lungs, and kidneys. My prognosis wasn't good. Somehow, with support from my family, friends, and caregivers (lots of amazing doctors, nurses, therapists, CNAs, and technicians), I was able to recover. However, lasting damage had been done. In 2020, I started dialysis. In 2021 and 2024, I had heart valve replacements.

There were many hospitalizations during this time. My sister played a major role in terms of taking care of me. She drove me to appointments, sat in often, and attended therapy sessions. She made sure I took my meds. She made sure I ate. And when I needed hands-on care, she took me into her home and made sure I met with my home care nurses and physical therapists. She also supported me in my transplant journey.

I was recently cleared for transplant, which should be cause for celebration. Just when things seem to be working out for me, she's been diagnosed with stage 4 cancer. I will soon be losing one of my best friends and my biggest support system.

That's why I need your help. When the time comes, I will likely need to hire a caregiver to help me through my recovery. I have friends willing to help, but they have jobs and kids. I know what they can offer will be limited, and I honestly feel guilty asking. I'm hopeful that my sister will live long enough to see it, but even if she does, she won't be able to play the role she intended.

I have worked as much as possible, but medical bills and extended hospital stays have exhausted my emergency fund more than once. I am saving but know it's not enough.

I am here asking for your support to get through this chapter. I will definitely pay it forward if I get through this.