Support Bill Coleman’s heart

My uncle Bill is one of the best people you’ll ever meet. He is kind and loving and gentle. He has always been the kiddos’ favorite.

Unfortunately, he has an extensive cardiac history which, after many years, has lead to the current circumstances.

After his latest cardiac event, he was thoroughly evaluated and was referred to St. Thomas hospital for further assessment and treatment options.

His wonderful wife and children have rallied around him during this time. They’ve traveled without hesitation, willingly putting their lives on hold to support each other.

While love and effort has never been anything short of the norm for us, this journey has been/will be emotionally and financially taxing beyond comprehension.

A brief update per the latest text from my aunt Vickie:

“We have had a CardioMem implanted to alert us of fluid levels. The LVAD procedure is on June 1. We are staying in the hospital at least 4 weeks after surgery and rehab…”

(They have already made several trips to Nashville and back, costing them at least $290 in gas [per trip], and there are many more trips to come. They are also responsible for lodging, which will average around $85/night…for many nights.)

“Hospital bills are mounting and his medicine, Milrinone, is $100 a bag and I change bags every 72 hrs. After surgery, follow up visits will be weekly, then start spacing visits out as time goes along. The extra LVAD gear will be costly at first but once we have what we need initially we won't have to purchase more, I will just launder and rotate the items. (The shirt that holds the battery packs and monitor is $100).”

Unfortunately, insurance hardly covers any of these expenses beyond medically necessary treatments. The medication he is prescribed is considered non-formulary… and fuel, lodging and food are obviously not covered.

While I know my family would move mountains for each other, I also know that they are facing enough turmoil and distress during this time.

They would never ask for anything more than prayers and well wishes, and those are appreciated from the depths of their hearts. But, if anyone is able to contribute to this journey financially, I know that would take such a weight off of them.

If you aren’t able to donate, please share and please pray for Bill and the family throughout the upcoming months.

Gratefully,

The Coleman/Gray family

*I have increased our goal amount and will continue to do so as my aunt and uncle continue to fund travel, lodging, medical expenses, prescription costs, etc.

Thank you all so much for your support and love!