Phil Koch's Medical Fund
Donation protected
Two weeks shy of his 29th birthday, Phil was hit with a lifechanging diagnosis.
Over the last month, Phil had been noticeably exhausted and began to lose weight. His family began to notice. His clothes weren't fitting and he was always tired and thirsty. But he ignored their requests for him to see a doctor.
Finally, one day, he looked terrible; his eyes were sunken in, his coloring was ghostly, and he had lost about 50 pounds; and mom was able to finally convince him he needed to see someone.
Upon arrival at the ED, he was asked to lay down and almost immediated admitted to the hospital.
At 28 years old, he was diagnosed with Type 1 Diabetes. Type 1 (formerly known as juvenile diabetes) is rarely diagnosed in adults. It is the form of diabetes in which the body (pancreas) can not produce insulin.
He has now spent 2 days in the ICU with an ion gap (due to insulin and potassium levels), a staph infection, and thrush. He has recieved IV antibiotics, Potassium Chloride, and Insulin. And is currently learning how to inject himself and diabetes education.
Phil has a high deductable policy and the life changing start up cost of diabetes is overwhelming. We know that he has a large group of family and friends who care for him. He does not want to ask for help. As his family, we are hopeful that the love and support surrounding him will help to make an easier transition during this life change.
Over the last month, Phil had been noticeably exhausted and began to lose weight. His family began to notice. His clothes weren't fitting and he was always tired and thirsty. But he ignored their requests for him to see a doctor.
Finally, one day, he looked terrible; his eyes were sunken in, his coloring was ghostly, and he had lost about 50 pounds; and mom was able to finally convince him he needed to see someone.
Upon arrival at the ED, he was asked to lay down and almost immediated admitted to the hospital.
At 28 years old, he was diagnosed with Type 1 Diabetes. Type 1 (formerly known as juvenile diabetes) is rarely diagnosed in adults. It is the form of diabetes in which the body (pancreas) can not produce insulin.
He has now spent 2 days in the ICU with an ion gap (due to insulin and potassium levels), a staph infection, and thrush. He has recieved IV antibiotics, Potassium Chloride, and Insulin. And is currently learning how to inject himself and diabetes education.
Phil has a high deductable policy and the life changing start up cost of diabetes is overwhelming. We know that he has a large group of family and friends who care for him. He does not want to ask for help. As his family, we are hopeful that the love and support surrounding him will help to make an easier transition during this life change.
Organiser and beneficiary
Michelle Koch
Organiser
Rochester, NY
Phillip Koch
Beneficiary
