My sister Marquita’s lung transplant to live!

Hi, my name is Cheryl, and I am fundraising for my sister Marquita, who needs a double lung transplant.

 

My fifty eight year old sister Marquita, is suffering from lung disease, coupled with hereditary asthma. She has 17% lung capacity, and relies on oxygen to live until she receives a double lung transplant. Her quality of life has been diminished for many years now, and it’s at a point that she cannot take care of herself, or live alone. She can’t afford a caretaker on her widows support, so her options are limited except a nursing home. That’s not an option for our close family.

 

She recently moved from MD after being on a lung transplant list for almost 2.5 years. They paused her for Covid, so that time is not included. So, I decided that she come live with me in FL, and get set up at Mayo Clinic. After much research, and Mayo doctors confirming, she will receive her lungs in 5-8 months, which is promising news! However, they will not give her lungs, unless she can prove she is able to financially relocate to Jacksonville, FL for 3-4 months. So, she is on pause on the waitlist, until we provide financial proof to relocate.

 

I am now her caregiver since April 2021, and take care of all her needs except bathing. I am glad she is with me, and is set up at Mayo.  I also have school aged children, and it’s more difficult than anticipated, when I have to drive them to activities, doc appointments etcetera. Also with my job away from home, it has made daily life a heavier load.  A load I welcome, but I need some help.

 

Marquita, and I are struggling financially due to three hour drives to Mayo for testing, gas and hotel fees.  She sees doctors almost every two weeks, and has pulmonary therapy three times a week.

 

Our other siblings are helping the best they can, but we’re struggling tremendously.  Since they live up north, they cannot help with appointments, shopping, cooking, and driving.

 

Marquita wants to live to get her lungs, (we all do,) but we need help. If it’s on your heart to help my sister get a second chance at life, I’m pleading with you to donate any amount. We’re in dire straits, and every dollar adds up!

 

I thank you with a humble heart for reading my sister’s story.

 

With gratitude,

Cheryl Jones