On October 7, Stephanie was diagnosed with Idiopathic Pulmonary Fibrosis (IPF), which causes scar tissues to grown inside your lungs and makes it hard to breath. This is a progressive disease and there is no cure for it. The doctors believe it is likely the result of exposure to COVID.

Stephanie was initially diagnosed with pneumonia, but after five days, a round of antibiotics, and no improvements with her breathing, she was hospitalized for two weeks in August. The doctors ran multiple tests, but weren’t able to conclude what was the cause of her low oxygen levels. Ultimately, they took out 15 pounds of fluid from around her heart and lungs. She was released from the hospital in hope that this procedure, and a permanent supply of oxygen, may improve her condition. It did not. And she was told she had IPF, which is progressive, meaning that over time the scarring becomes more widespread and lung function declines, and irreversible. 

Stephanie has currently qualified for a grant for a years supply of a $12,000 a month drug to slow the lung tissue scarring. Even with this new drug, she will need to be on oxygen for the rest of her life. Because she can no longer work away from home and doesn’t qualify for disability at the moment, we have established this GoFundMe page.  Our goal for this fund is to raise money to purchase a portable backpack style oxygen tank, to make it easier for her to tend to herself and the daily activities of life, and to defray the cost of her hospital bills. 

Any donation toward this goal will be greatly appreciated, as will prayers and positive vibes Stephanie’s way. Thanks in advance.