Please help support Joelle’s medical expenses.

UPDATE: 2/11 (from Joelle)

I am currently going in for blood work twice a week, I meet with my liver specialist every two weeks and my blood doctor once a month and so far my levels have very slowly been heading in the right direction. We are reducing the amount of prednisone I take every day and I have started a new medication called cellcept that I have to take twice a day and will likely be on for the rest of my life if it continues to work. I'm still in the “at risk” zone for a transplant but if things continue as they are, my liver will be able to function for a while!

I cannot thank everyone enough for your prayers, donations, support, and encouragement. Through this difficult time in life God has blessed me so much through all of you and continually shows me just how good He is and how He'll always take care of us

added note - Since Joelle is still off work and all the expenses of life are piling up. I have decided to increase the financial support needed. Not only will she have thousands in medical bills, but the cost for traveling to these appointments and the medication will add up. Joelle also has been put on a low sodium diet and has to watch carbs and sugar intake. With being on steroids it does impact the pancreas, so that is being watched.

Joelle's family is overwhelmed and appreciative of all the support and kindness shown during this difficult time! Words cannot express the gratitude we feel towards everyone that keeps showing up!

UPDATE: 1/24

Joelle has received the results from the liver biopsy.

She has been diagnosed between stage 3 and 4 of liver cirrhosis. (With stage 4 being the worst). Right now her body is responding to the steroids and treatment. She will be re-evaluated in a couple days and they will check her blood to see if this is something she can continue long term. If not, they will pursue a liver transplant. This will be a long journey for Joelle and Andy as she will need to be off work while they evaluate her situation.

We are grateful that Joelle has been sent home for outpatient care. Thank you for showing your support and love during this difficult time!

1/23 Dear Family and Friends, on January 11th, Joelle was admitted to Providence Hospital due to high levels of bilirubin causing extreme jaundice, her blood not clotting, and other life threatening symptoms. A week later she was transferred by ambulance to Corewell Beaumont Hospital in Royal Oak. Joelle has been in the hospital for 12 days now. She has undergone several ultrasounds, a CT scan, a paracentesis procedure to remove fluid from her distended abdomen, and a transjugular liver biopsy. They are keeping her in the hospital to monitor her levels while she’s on steroids and other medications to reduce inflammation in her liver. She has been diagnosed with Autoimmune Hepatitis and Cirrhosis of the Liver. She is waiting for the liver biopsy results to determine the extent of damage to her liver.

Several have asked how they can help support Joelle and Andy during this difficult and trying time. As insurance has been an issue and Andy has been off work taking care of Joelle’s needs their financial burden is growing. If you feel led, please consider donating to her medical expenses. Joelle has a Venmo account if you’d prefer. (@Joelle-Murdie)

They are overwhelmed with the love and encouragement from everyone! Thank you all for your support by prayers or financial means.