Support the Murphy Family for Molly's Surgery

Molly will be undergoing Tracheopexy surgery on December 4 at Johns Hopkins All Childrens Hospital (JCACH) in Tampa, FL. We are humbled and honored that many of our family and friends have asked if you can help monetarily. We graciously accept any financial assistance you feel compelled to provide to help cover travel expenses for our extended stay in St. Petersburg.

For context, Molly has been diagnosed with Tracheomalacia and moderate persistent asthma. Tracheomalacia can cause the walls of the windpipe to collapse due to a malformation of her trachea cartilage (oval instead of round); this makes it difficult to breathe, and can result in recurring and severe respiratory illnesses. This combination has led to quite a medical journey for us over the past 2 years, with monthly doctors appointments, endless medicine regimens, and ultimately 4 hospital stays for Molly.

Molly was evaluated after her most recent hospital stay by the Esophageal Airway Treatment program at JCACH on November 15. They performed a dynamic bronchoscopy, meaning they stimulate a cough while doing the scope. This allowed them to see the level of collapse in Molly’s airway when she coughed, which they found to be 100%. For reference, 50% or less collapse is normal. Therefore, her existing Tracheomalacia diagnosis was re-classified from moderate to severe.

After they showed us a video to see the 100% collapse for ourselves, we were aligned with the Tampa team that the Tracheopexy surgery was best. During this 4+hr procedure, they will attach the front or back of the trachea to a strong ligament or bone via sutures to prevent the trachea from collapsing. This decision was obviously heavy and is not our first choice. The thought of surgery for our girl is terrifying for our family, but this will be a permanent solution and improve Molly’s long-term quality of life. We are grateful to feel very strong resolve on the path forward, and we know the best of the best will be operating on her.