Heart Hope Life- Russ’ heart transplant assistance

On Dec 22, 2016, Russ was  admitted to Overland Park Regional because of a heart attack.  The Doctors attempted angioplasty on a blocked artery.  On Dec 23rd while in ICU, the artery dissected and clotted which required emergency open heart surgery.  During this surgery the Doctors discovered Russ' artery anatomy is not normal and has aneurysms.  The Doctors performed bypass surgery.  There is significant damage to Russell's heart.  His heart ejection fraction was 24, normal heart ejection fraction is 65 to 75.  .  In April, while at cardiac rehab, he experienced chest pains and was admitted to St. Luke's Hospital where Doctors found the bypass surgery in Dec was unsuccessful.  The team of Doctors determined a surgery at this time would be too risky and chose to  treat with medications and continue cardiac rehab and hope for improvements.  In June another heart function was performed with no improvement found.  On Jul 06th, the Doctors placed an internal defibrillator to give Russ some freedom from wearing the lifevest.  In September another heart function test was performed.  Test results show the results are weaker now compared to prior tests. Russ is now listed on the heart transplant list. Unfortunately there is no time  frame for the transplant. During this trying time, Russ has not been released to work.  He becomes very tired and rundown, mentally and physically due to his condition.  Many have asked how they can help alleviate some of the day to day living expenses as well as the ongoing medical expenses.  Anything and everything you can do to help Russ is greatly appreciated.