Support for Peter’s Medical Expenses

Molly Chassman-Hill works as a pediatric nurse in Lake Katrine, NY, helping to care for many of our babies and children.  Her eldest son, Peter, has suffered from intermittent GI tract and liver issues since age 7. He went through years of testing, visits to various specialists, hospital stays, possible diagnoses and gallbladder removal, a surgery doctors hoped would resolve all symptoms. Unfortunately, it did not. Now at age 16, Peter has been experiencing chronic nausea, diarrhea and vomiting with liver involvement for the last year. He was admitted to Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia (CHOP) on January 28, 2021.  His doctors spent the last two weeks attempting to manage his symptoms, including severe dehydration, while running numerous labs, imaging and undergoing invasive procedures. An Alpha-1 Antitrypsin Deficiency, a genetic condition typically involving the liver and lungs, was discovered but doctors have yet to fully understand the role it plays and possible treatments.  Once Peter’s symptoms were managed with medication and liver functions started downtrending, he was released from the hospital with scheduled, specialist appointments. Peter is set to meet with a hepatologist, gastroenterologist, adolescent medicine specialist and ophthalmologist at CHOP before the end of February. Hence more labs, more testing, more travel, more lodging, more bills, less possible work. As far too many know, medical care and the associated costs can cause financial devastation. Between travel expenses, deductible and copays, Peter’s two week stay cost approximately $10,000, not including lost wages. Molly is the sole financial provider for her family of four and must take leave from work to bring Peter to his appointments. If you find yourself able, any donation would be tremendously appreciated while Molly takes time away from the office in order to tend to her son’s medical needs.  

I befriended Molly, over the years,  through countless appointments as my children are patients of hers.  A friendship that eventually extended outside of the walls of the doctor’s office. I am grateful for the opportunity to help return some of the love she has given to my family. Molly has given permission to raise funds on her and Peter’s behalf.  All proceeds go to her family.