Support for Lung Transplant Journey

Hello,

I have been diagnosed with Idiopathic Pulmonary Fibrosis (IPF) in June 2024. After a mild case of COVID in April 2022, I discovered that my breathing had become labored and my energy levels had dropped considerably. After 2.5 years of tests, including a biopsy, the diagnosis was delivered. After 3 years, I'm now on 3 liters of oxygen 24/7. Unfortunately, there is no cure for this disease. Lung transplants are my only option to survive. This is a rare disease, only affecting 100,000 people across the country. There are over 200 causes, but when unable to identify a cause, it is considered idiopathic. That's where I have to ask for help.

There are no transplant centers close to home, which means traveling to and living near the center for up to 3 months post-surgery. Cleveland Clinic is the closest, and I have already been there for 4 days of testing, returning on July 9th for follow-up breathing tests. If they accept me and list me on the national database, I will have to travel there. Depending on what shape I'm in, a medical flight costs upwards of $15,000, not covered by insurance or the hospital. If I have to leave the working world after 42 years, that will impact my income, having to find private insurance or COBRA, which is costly. Anti-rejection drugs, which I will have to take for the rest of my life, are also expensive until deductibles are met. So, these donations will give me the ability to stay afloat before and after while I recoup over the expected 6 months to a year.

So I ask for your help, if unable to donate please share this. Peace & Love to ALL!!