My mother has been diagnosed with non-alcoholic cirrhosis of the liver. This genetic condition took the lives of my grandmother as well as my aunt before we realized it was an issue in our family. My mother is now on the transplant list waiting for life-saving care, but the transport costs alone are nearly insurmountable. Trips to the Mayo Clinic are 14-hour round trips, and to keep up with registry requirements, these need to be made often, twice a week.

Alongside issues with insurance, co-pays, emergency transport, and prescription costs, we have accrued significant debt, and the added stress is only making her health degrade.

Sue Martin, my mother, has been an avid scout mom for most of the life that she has had children. She has helped foster and build confidence in so many young lives, including at-risk youth and young men with disabilities. She has been a pillar of support in her community and an active participant in any goal where she can help and feel like she is giving back.

We pray and hope for a miracle, but we know when the time comes where we need to ask for help. I know the time is coming where she will be given a second chance, but the road has become more difficult as time goes on, and we really need a helping hand from friends, family, and people who want to help save the life of an amazing woman who has given so much of herself.