This fundraiser is being organized for my brother-in-law, Andy, with his wife and my sister, Jenny, as co-organizer and beneficiary. Over the last few months, many friends, colleagues, and former students have asked how they could offer support after hearing Andy's story.
Andy has been part of our family for over 25 years—not only as my brother-in-law, but as a friend and "brother I never had". He has spent much of his career as a physician assistant in the neonatal intensive care unit, caring for critically ill and premature infants, and for the past decade has also served as a physician assistant educator, training and mentoring future clinicians. His work has always been rooted in compassion, calm, and an unwavering commitment to patients, families, and students. He now enters the healthcare system not as a caregiver, but as a patient with a life-altering diagnosis.
Recently, Andy was diagnosed with a very rare autoimmune disease that requires complex, ongoing medical care across multiple specialties (rheumatology, pulmonology, hematology/oncology, and endocrinology). This diagnosis has been devastating for Andy and has affected our entire family as we navigate a new life of treatment plans, unending appointments, and uncertainty about what lies ahead.
In addition to his local medical team, Andy's physicians have recommended evaluation at the Johns Hopkins Myositis Center, one of the country's leading centers with expertise in his condition. This level of care involves significant travel and related expenses that are not covered by insurance.
To learn more about Dermatomyositis visit the Johns Hopkins Myositis Center (video series) here.
Funds from this campaign would be used to help offset costs related to:
- Travel to and from Baltimore, Maryland
- Lodging and meals during specialty evaluations
- Specialty consultations and referrals
- Infusion treatments of donated antibodies and chemotherapy
- Medical and logistical expenses not fully covered by insurance
There is absolutely no expectation to donate. Sharing this page, offering encouragement, or simply keeping Andy and our family in your thoughts is more than enough. For those who choose to contribute, please know how deeply grateful we are.
Thank you for taking the time to read and for the kindness and support that so many have shown.
With appreciation,
Kristin, Jenny, & Andy