Hey everyone. My name is Kara Wilson and I, alongside my three sisters, are seeking support for the financial costs of a double lung transplant for our Mom, Tammy Gibbins.

February of 2023, our mom was diagnosed with Idiopathic Pulmonary Fibrosis.

Idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF) is a chronic, progressive lung disease that causes irreversible scarring (fibrosis) in the lungs. The scarring stiffens the lungs and makes breathing increasingly difficult.

Our mom’s life completely changed with her diagnosis. There is no cure to reverse the scarring in her lungs, but there are treatments - which for her began with inhalers as needed and supplemental oxygen. She is now on supplemental oxygen 24/7.

Now, two and a half years after her diagnosis, our mom is in the process of qualifying for a lung transplant. Of course there are a million (almost, literally) costs associated with this procedure including the procedure itself, medical evaluations leading up to the procedure, the hospital stay, several weeks in the ICU, post procedure medical evaluations, and housing following the procedure. Our mom will be required to live within 6 miles of Emory Hospital where her procedure will take place, for a minimum of 3 months. This will either mean an extended stay hotel or a long term rental.

As a family, we are reluctant to ask for help but we know that we can’t do this alone. At this time, we do not know how much (or if) insurance will cover costs associated with the procedure. We do know that insurance will not cover the housing expenses near the hospital after her procedure.

The average cost of a double lung transplant in the state of Georgia is over $1.2M.

If you know my mom, you know that she is the epitome of a strong woman and an incredible mother. If you know me or my sisters, you know just how close each of us is to our mom. She more than deserves this.

If you feel led to donate, just know that our level of appreciation is so great that it is difficult to put in words. If you are not able to donate, please help us in sharing our mom’s story.

All donations will directly support the costs related to the double lung transplant.

With all of our love,

Kara, Maya, Lili, and Ivy