Please Help Support My Mom's Life-Saving Liver Transplant

Dear Friends and Family,

I am reaching out to share the journey my mom Lynda has experienced over the past few years. In May 2022, my mom was diagnosed with severe liver disease and was informed the only solution would be a liver transplant. As you can imagine, this was a scary diagnosis - especially as liver disease is often silent and symptoms are not present until the disease is advanced.

For those who have had the pleasure of meeting my mom, you'd know that she is the most thoughtful and determined woman (some might even say stubborn - haha!), who would do anything for you in a heartbeat. For those who have not yet met my mother, I'd like to tell you a little about her.

My mom has always cared so deeply for her family, friends and loved ones. She never missed an important event and always ensured to be a listening ear to whomever needed. My mom has always been so detail oriented which made for great planning and organizing. She’s coordinated many parties and events, such as my grandfather’s 80th, both mine and my brother's graduation, surprise parties, etc. ensuring the day was as special as it could be.

I remember this day in high school, having an awful morning and really needing a self-care day (we all need one of these every now and again). I told her how I felt and she let me stay home - knowing it would help. We went to Sam’s Club that day and it was at that moment when I realized - taking a time-out/day off and spending time with your mom can really reset you and nourish your soul. As I've mentioned, my mom has always been thoughtful. Growing up, I had a close friend who went through a rocky time at home for a bit. My mom and stepdad allowed my friend to stay with us just about every day that summer. This goes to show you what an amazing woman she is - allowing and supporting another child who wasn't her own to stay in her home.

Another thing about my mom is she has this contagious laugh that will light up the room - really, anyone will agree! My mom has always been family-oriented. She loves spending time with family, but unfortunately, has not been able to travel to see them due to her diagnosis. One thing my mom mentioned is that she is really looking forward to meeting her new niece and nephew that were born, and it saddens her that she hasn’t been able to do so.

One thing I am beyond grateful for is the fact that my mom has always prioritized my brother Michael and I - striving to be the best mother she could be for us. She has consistently provided us with all we’ve needed to ensure we live a good life - and it would be an honor if we could help return the favor.

This has been an incredibly difficult time for our family as we’ve navigated through this life-threatening disease - doing everything we can to support my mom in this fight for her life. During the past year, this disease has really taken its toll on my mom - limiting her and what she is able to do. In August 2024, my mom was fortunately added to the Liver Transplant list. Every day seemed like an eternity as she struggled to do things she once did effortlessly - things that we take for granted.

My mom celebrated her birthday the last week of January. After we sang Happy Birthday - when it came time to blow out the candle - she closed her eyes and made a wish. The day after her birthday, my mom got the call stating there was a liver available for her! After the call, she mentioned she wished for a liver and honestly, I couldn’t imagine wishing for anything else. We are all beyond grateful for this gift - a second chance at life.

A couple days later, my mom went in for surgery - it was a long surgery, totaling about 6 hours. The surgeon stated that she was a champion and did so well that they were able to take the breathing tube out in the operating room. Another thing about my mom - she has always been so strong - even through all of this. I could not have been more proud of her for pushing through, even when the days seemed long and unbearable. The road after a liver transplant is an incredibly long journey, and recovery isn’t easy. But we will be there by her side every step of the way - just like she has always been there for us.

This transplant was a life-saving procedure. It allows us more time to spend with my mom and we will be grateful for that - forever. As I mentioned, this surgery has granted my mom another opportunity of life - allowing her to be here with us through such important milestones. We look forward to having her at our weddings, being the best “Nana” to our future children, growing older with her husband Mike, and enjoying time with her family with a much better quality of life.

The average cost of a liver transplant in the US in 2024 was approximately $1.1 million. The cost of a liver transplant can include:

Pre-Transplant Medical Care: This includes consultations, blood tests, transplant evaluations, and other necessary preparations.

Organ Procurement: The process of obtaining a liver, which can involve retrieval and transportation fees. A 2021 study found that liver procurement costs could exceed $75,000.

Hospital and Surgeon Fees: The largest expense, encompassing hospital stay charges and the transplant surgeon’s fees, which can total up to $500,000.

Post-Transplant Care: Follow-up care costs after surgery, including checkups, medications, lab tests, and additional medical care.

Despite insurance covering about 75% of the $1.1 million cost for the transplant, medical care, and medication, the remaining 25% and additional expenses are significant.

Our family is doing everything we can, but with my mom unable to work, the burden is overwhelming. Our family in New York and New Jersey have been so kind in sending things to the home such as prepared meals to ensure that's one less thing on our plate, and we are so grateful for that.

I’d like to take a moment to ask for a huge favor - something I never thought I would have to ask for. Please search in your hearts, and if you are able to help my mom and family by donation during this life challenging time, this would mean the world to us.

My mom has always been a pillar of love, strength, and support in our lives, and now it’s our turn to support her. Every donation, no matter the size, contributes to giving her the chance to live a long, healthy life. Even if you are not able to donate, I ask that you consider donating blood, platelets, and even becoming an organ donor.

Please consider sharing with others and contributing to her journey. Your kindness and generosity mean more than words can express.

Thank you from the bottom of our hearts.