Nathaniel's Heart Transplant

Hi, My name is Charissa. I am the oldest sister of Nathaniel. Nathaniel is a very intelligent, loving and sarcastic 16 year old boy. He is taking advanced placement/dual credit classes at Mosinee High School this year, as a sophomore, with a math and science focus. He also sings for the choir. Before progressions with his illness, he was available to start tutoring in math. In addition, he played for the Mosinee Basketball program, until his illness left him unable to this year. Last spring he worked his first job at Culver's, in Wausau, WI. In his spare time he enjoys fishing, 4-wheeling and drawing. Nathaniel is a very kind young man. He has been described as a "leave the last cookie" kind of person, who puts the needs of others before his own.

My brother also needs a heart transplant. After a series of diagnoses, Nathaniel experienced some dizziness and near blackouts. We learned he has cardiomyopathy caused by a rare disease called Myofibrillar Myopathy. Originally, findings left Nathaniel with very little to no restrictions in life. In a very short amount of time though, things have drastically changed. Doctors, at Mayo Clinic, have now determined that Nathaniel has Restrictive Cardiomyopathy. He is being placed on a heart transplant list. His doctors are hopeful that a new heart will slow the effects of the disease on the rest of his body and give him the best possible outcome going forward. We know that none of this came as any surprise to God. Nathaniel has been greatly encouraged by Psalm 23:4 "Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil: for thou art with me; thy rod and thy staff they comfort me."

Nathaniel's care will be extensive. His post operative plan will involve a number of phases. First, a minimum 2 week hospital stay. Second, a minimum 3 month period living close to the hospital. He will undergo checkups and physical therapy several times a week. Eventually he will have monthly trips, to Minnesota, for these check ups. One year from the transplant those checks should space out more and more until they become annual. We have been informed it will be difficult, if not impossible, for my mom to work during that 1st year. 

 My mother is also in need of a more reliable vehicle. I am hoping the Lord will allow us to raise the funds to help purchase one quickly, lessening the risk of an issue when a heart becomes available. 

While this page is designed to raise financial support, our family also covets your prayers. Please Pray for Nathaniel's swift healing and courage!

Please pray for the doctors' wisdom. Please pray for our family to be encouraged and for us to be an encouragement to others!

Thank you so much for your involvement!