Today, I’m writing with a heavy but hopeful heart regarding my dad, who is in urgent need of a lung transplant. This situation weighs heavily on our family, and I wanted to share a glimpse into our lives and the dreams we hold dear. Two years ago, my dad was diagnosed with pulmonary fibrosis, a condition that has progressively taken a toll on his health. Back in 2020, when the world was grappling with the pandemic, my dad’s successful bakery in Scarsdale, New York, was thriving. But just as we thought we could weather the storm, disaster struck when the bakery was flooded. The financial burden that followed was overwhelming, and despite my dad’s tireless efforts to rebuild, we faced many setbacks. Last year, we took a leap of faith and relocated to South Carolina, where my dad used the little savings he had to open a small bakery again, hoping to recapture the joy he found in baking. He always believed he had at least five more years before needing a transplant, but the reality is different now. Doctors are telling us that he needs the transplant as soon as possible, and this news has shaken our family to its core. My mom, my two brothers, and I have been doing everything we can to support him, but the financial requirements for the transplant are beyond our reach.

On top of the medical expenses, my dad is required to relocate to North Carolina for at least six months for pre-rehab, surgery, and post-rehab at Duke. This means not only covering the costs of his care, but also making sure our family can stay in our home in Myrtle Beach during this difficult time. Without these funds, my dad would be hard pressed to leave us without a home, and the thought of being separated during such a critical period is overwhelming.

I am only 16 and not ready to lose my dad. More than anything, I dream of having my dad walk me down the aisle one day. I envision him being there at my graduation, cheering me on, and celebrating all the beautiful milestones in my life. It breaks my heart to think that these moments could be taken away from us. We are reaching out to you, with hope in our hearts, in hopes that you might be able to help save my dad and keep our family together. Your support would mean the world to us. We are not just fighting for a lung transplant; we are fighting for a future filled with love, laughter, and memories that we have yet to create together. Thank you for considering our plea. Your kindness could make all the difference in our lives.