Maria

For those fortunate enough to cross paths with Maria Entsminger, you know that she has dedicated her life to serving others. From educating children for 24 years, coaching countless athletes, planning weddings, and participating in community events, Maria has spent years pouring her time and energy into the community. Maria’s husband, JD Lorens, has also spent his life serving the community as a Cobb County police officer.

I have known Maria for nearly 20 years, and she was my twins’ fifth-grade teacher. Her impact was never clearer than when my son said, “Ms. E is so awesome. When you’re homesick, she really makes you feel at home. She’s like having another mom.”

Unfortunately, in June of 2023, Maria became very ill. Extensive diagnostic testing and treatment ultimately led to a diagnosis of stage 4 non-alcoholic cirrhosis of the liver, and they now find themselves in a position of need for support from their friends and community.

Maria has been unable to work throughout this process, and if you know Maria and JD, you know they don’t like to ask for help. With over 30 trips to Emory for treatments, medication, and emergency care, expenses have begun to accumulate quickly, and while they are paying their bills, they have $0 left at the end of the month and are using credit cards for food, parking, and other expenses, of which have totaled approximately $25,000 thus far.

CURRENT NEED AND MEDICAL STATUS:

$50,000

Maria is considered “Meld Sick,” meaning she is not sick enough to be on the liver transplant list but is sick enough to start the transplant eligibility process.

FUTURE PLANS AND NEEDS:

Maria and JD have been told to save at least $100,000 for their portion of the transplant, medications, and after transplant expenses, such as travel, food and parking.

The cost of a liver transplant in Georgia is approximately $900,000, of which Maria and JD will be responsible for 10% (~$90,000). Their insurance company will cover 90%.

Following a transplant, Maria could be in the hospital up to 3 months.

Your donations will help supplement treatment, medicine, and stays at the hospital, which will lessen the burden for this worthy couple. Let’s rally around Maria and show our support!