Support Hilary's Fight for New Lungs and a New Life

Help Hilary Breathe Again: Lung Transplant Fund

My name is Stef, and the cover image is of me and my BFF, Ride-or-Die, lifelong Bestie, my Chicky, Hilary Greek. I chose that photo because it's the most recent photo I have of Hilary before she got SICK.

About Hilary's Fight for Life

Hilary has battled chronic illness for years, but last year, 2024, was a complete dumpster fire of a year. It started in January when she was admitted to the hospital for emergency surgery to remove her gall bladder. When she got to go home, she went home needing to be on oxygen and with a new medical relationship - a pulmonologist. And the year went downhill from there.

A few months later, she told me she might need new lungs. In July, her pulmonologist thought she had either pulmonary hypertension (PAH) or pulmonary fibrosis, so referred her to two other pulmonologists - one for each possible diagnosis. Adding fuel to the dumpster fire that 2024 was, she learned that her lungs have BOTH!

They are genetic, and one comes from Mom's side of the family, and the other from Dad's side.

That led to a good news/bad news announcement. The bad news is that her lungs are going to continue to deteriorate until they just don't work anymore. The good news is that it's genetic, and if she lives long enough to get new lungs, the new lungs won't be affected by the (as she calls it) "genetic sludge."

The Financial Burden

Testing and Medication Costs

Here's what they don't tell you, though... learning you need new lungs doesn't automatically get you on the list; there are tests to be run, and medications to try, and BMI goals to hit, and, and, and.... It's a LOT.

Some of the medications are thousands of dollars per month, and insurance doesn’t cover all of it. At least one of the (MANY) tests was $12,000, and insurance only covered a portion.

Transportation Challenges

Reliable transportation is a critical requirement for being listed for a lung transplant. Unfortunately, Hilary’s car broke down, forcing them to invest in a new-to-them vehicle to ensure she can attend all necessary appointments and treatments. This unexpected expense added significant stress to their financial situation.

Increased Living Expenses

To survive this arduous journey, Hilary relies on oxygen, which has increased their electric bill by an additional $150 per month.

Groceries are expensive, too - eating healthy is expensive, but it’s required to meet her nutrition needs without adding additional empty calories.

This are just two examples of the many ongoing costs that they must manage during this challenging time.

And that’s just leading up to the surgery. Shen might have to relocate while Hilary’s in the hospital to be closer. The Transplant Center that Hilary is listed with is 78 miles from home. It’s close enough (barely) that they don’t have to move closer while she’s waiting for new lungs, but it’s far enough that it’s not safe as an everyday commute for Shen to visit for the three-or-so months she is expected to be hospitalized following a successful transplant.

How You Can Help

We are reaching out to you, our community, to ask for your help. Any contribution, no matter how small, will make a significant difference in easing the financial burden on Hilary and Shen. Your support will go towards covering medical expenses, medications, tests, and the cost of living healthy.

· Medical tests and procedures not fully covered by insurance.

· Payments for their new vehicle.

· Increased utility bills due to oxygen use.

· Any additional costs associated with Hilary’s care and recovery.

· Help Shen with any potential relocation expenses during Hilary’s hospital stay.

Every Donation Makes a Difference

No amount is too small, and every dollar brings Hilary one step closer to being able to survive the journey to getting the new lungs she so desperately needs. Your support will not only alleviate the financial strain but also provide emotional comfort knowing that they are not alone in this fight.

Share Their Story

Even if you are unable to contribute financially, you can still make a huge impact by sharing Hilary and Shen’s story with your network. Raising awareness is crucial, and the more people who know about their situation, the better their chances of receiving the help they need.

Thank You

Hilary has always been a fighter, and with your help, she can get through this. From the bottom of our hearts, we thank you for your kindness and generosity. Hilary and Shen are incredibly grateful for your support during this critical time. Together, we can help Hilary breathe again and give her the gift of life.

With gratitude,

Stef