Paul's Fight Against Cystic Fibrosis

Paul Langenecker is my brother-in-law and most know he has been battling Cystic Fibrosis since birth. For those who don’t know, Cystic Fibrosis is a progressive, genetic disease that mainly effects the lungs and digestive system. The body produces thick sticky mucus that decreases lung function, and stops nutrient absorption. This also puts the body at great risk for infection.  

Paul is 26 years old and has been with my sister for the last 10 years. In September 2018 they had an absolutely beautiful wedding and shortly after they found the house of their dreams as any couple wishes to do someday. Cystic Fibrosis had other plans though, that made life challenging for them and the entire family so far. Shortly after they bought their house Paul’s health deteriorated, the discussion about a lung transplant, which is inevitable with Cystic Fibrosis, was the topic after that. His daily medical regimen includes multiple breathing treatments, enzyme medication to help with digestion of food, vest therapy, and many medications. All the hours that he takes out of his day and life and he has NEVER complained, but it was about to get harder. As time went on he was spending more and more time in the hospital, having to stay for weeks at times to fight the nasty infections that caused havoc in his body. 

Throughout all of this Paul has stayed so positive and optimistic. He is the last person in the world who should have to go through something like this. With all the challenges and the fight to breathe every single day of his life he is always determined to keep everyone around him positive and is always trying to help others when he is able. Paul is currently waiting out at the UW Health  University Hospital in Madison  to get a perfect match on lungs to be able to breathe again.  He will hopefully soon undergo a bilateral lung transplant. In the years I’ve known Paul and all the help he has done for me and everyone around him I feel it is now our time to help him. Throughout this challenging journey, Paul and my sister Amy have been struggling financially; they hate to ask for help but with the upcoming transplant my sister won’t be working so that she can stay by Paul’s side.  

I want to help lessen their financial hardship during this difficult time. Any help with easing this stress would be greatly appreciated by them but also by their entire family. Please continue to pray for Paul as he continues to fight every day. 

Thank you to everyone for all the support and love during this time!