My friend Katie (30) needs double lung transplant!

Hi all! My name is Elisa, and I have created this fundraiser for one of my dearest friends in life that is going through an extremely difficult time in her life. For those of you that are unaware of Katie's diagnosis a couple of years ago, here is a quick summary.

 

In 2019, Katie collapsed on the street while dropping her son Juliano off at school. Shockingly, she flat-lined right outside of his school. Thankfully, paramedics were able to bring her back to us. But these last few years have brought on hardships that no one expected.

 

Katie was diagnosed with something called Pulmonary Arterial Hypertension, aka PAH. Specifically, Heritable Pulmonary Hypertensive Arterial Disease (CMS-HCC). This is a genetic and chronic illness that can not be cured. Unfortunately, this was passed onto Katie from her grandmother, who unfortunately ended up passing away from the same disease. With this being a genetic disease and still without a cure, we are praying that this disease stops with Katie and does not get passed on to her two young children. 

After the diagnosis, her daily routine has changed drastically. She was put on medication that must on/running through her system 24/7. This medication is called Epoprostenol (AKA, Veletri) and continuously flows through an IV in the chest that is attached to a small pump, which is worn in a fanny pack. Without this medication, results would be fatal. Even though this medication helps stabilize her from day to day, Katie's condition is in one of the worst stages, so it is like putting a band aid on a bullet wound. Every day is a battle filled with uncertainty. 

 

The only way for Katie to have any hopes of a somewhat normal life is for her to get a double lung transplant. She has finally received the amazing news that she is on the list back in April! However, insurance will only cover a portion of this and we all know medical bills hurt the most. With extensive amounts of medical bills already adding up, the hope is to raise money to help ease the pain of these costs and the surgery costs.

 

Katie has a fiancé and two children that she adores more than anything in this world. She wants to be around long enough to finally be able to get married and watch her babies grow! If you are lucky enough to know her, you know that she is the first person to be there if someone needs something and would never ask for anything. But it is our turn to help her, which is why I have created this fundraiser.

 

Anything helps and is truly appreciated! If you cannot afford a donation, we completely understand and just ask for continued prayers for our PAH warrior, Katie <3

Here are some pictures of Katie's journey..