Support Suzie's Road to Recovery

Today, we reach out to you with a story of strength and resilience and ultimately, a request for support that is close to each of our hearts and, holds great significance for someone dear to all of us. As some of you may know, our beloved, kind, generous, loving, and funny Suzie Johnson, aka Mama Suz, is facing an extremely challenging health and rehabilitative journey ahead. 

On March 27, 2024 Suzie after working her usual day at the Preschool, felt a little “off ” and went home to rest. Within hours Suzie became extremely ill and was rushed to the hospital with septic shock. She became septic so quickly in part, due to her medication she receives for her rare blood disease paroxysmal nocturnal hemoglobinuria (PNH). The medication causes her immune system to not work as well as it should. Suzie was in the ICU for 5 days and barely survived. She had multi-system organ failure and was so acutely ill her blood pressure dropped dangerously low requiring multiple life saving medications to support her blood pressure. Our family was put on notice that she may not make it through the night. Frightened and confused we all dropped everything and got to her side. There was not much to do but pray and boy did we….

We are so grateful to the team at Huntington Hospital for saving Suzie’s life! However the medications to save her led to a lack of circulation in her extremities. This caused necrosis in her hands and feet. Suzie is now facing a very long recovery with multiple amputation surgeries for her hands, fingers, and toes, and feet.

In true warrior fashion, Suzie has maintained her strength, humor and infectious smile in her recovery. Suzie now has a long road ahead requiring multiple surgeries. For the next 6-8 months she’ll require help with everything; bathing, eating, drinking, wound care, physical and occupational therapy and will be in a skilled nursing facility. We found a great family oriented facility near her home, friends and family, her specialty medical team and even allows dog visits.

The financial burden for her care is substantial and that is why we are humbly reaching out. Insurance coverage is limited, capped and extremely expensive. Suzie’s estimated out-of-pocket costs for skilled nursing care alone will be between $126,000-175,000. This does not include all future care she’ll need for her challenging transition to independent living. This will include rehab, PT/OT, prosthetics, and home, and car adaptations.

We humbly ask for your support in easing the financial strain on Suzie during this challenging time. Your contribution, no matter how small, will make a significant difference in her life. Your contribution will not only provide the necessary funds, but also offer peace of mind and comfort to Suzie and her family.

If you are unable to contribute financially, your thoughts, prayers, and well-wishes are equally cherished and valued.To contribute, please visit our GoFundMe page [link]. Feel free to share this page with others who may be willing to help. Together, we can make a meaningful impact and provide the care and ongoing support that Suzie needs and deserves. Your kindness will forever be remembered and cherished as we navigate this challenging journey together.

Thank you for being a part of Suzie support network!!