New Lungs for Nicholas

I want to start by saying THANK YOU so much for any donation that you give whether it’s monetary, prayers, or good vibes.

I’m getting new lungs!

Following my cancer diagnosis, I underwent two stem cell transplants. Following the second transplant, I developed chronic graft versus host disease of the lungs. This has led to the development of bronchiolitis obliterans syndrome, which has caused permanent damage to my lungs. For the last few years, my lungs have gotten progressively worse. I am now living with end stage lung disease. As of February 23, I am on the solid organ transplant list at The Ohio State University - so now we are just waiting on the call that they have a matched organ donor.  This transplant will be different for us as I am now retired and Abby works full time. Once I have my transplant I have to stay in Columbus and have a 24/7 caregiver as I am not allowed to be alone for the first several months after transplant.

My lung function has gotten so bad that I only leave the comfort of my continuous oxygen machine to attend medical appointments. I get very winded with minimal activity anymore. The doctors say I will be back to my normal self after the transplant! Most of you know I like to be in the garage working on whatever but I can’t even do that anymore.

Again, thank you for everything! This fundraiser will go towards prescriptions and lodging expenses. I will be starting a blog and Instagram to show progress along the way. 

#SMITHSTRONG #NEWAIRBAGS #OSU