My name is Nicki, and I’m currently in the hospital waiting for a tricuspid valve replacement or possibly a heart transplant. It’s been two weeks since I was admitted, and every day brings new challenges and uncertainty. Being far from home during such a critical time is difficult, but I’m grateful that my mom, Margie, has traveled all the way from Ohio to be here with me. Her presence has been a huge comfort, even as we both face the stress and worry that come with waiting for major surgery.

While I focus on my health and recovery, Margie has been managing everything else—finding a place to stay, arranging transportation, and making sure I have the support I need. The costs of car rentals and hotels are adding up quickly, and it’s been overwhelming to keep up with these expenses on top of the medical situation. We’re doing our best to stay positive, and having Margie here has helped me stay hopeful through it all.

I’m looking forward to the day when I can recover and return home, with my mom by my side. Any support will go directly toward covering the travel and lodging costs that have become such a big part of this journey. Thank you for helping us get through this challenging time.