Help Teresa's Family - Medical and Funeral Costs

My name is Kimberly Hollingsworth and I am seeking support for the family of my dear sister-in-law, Teresa Gorton, who passed away on December 18th. The funds collected will help cover the costs of her end-of-life medical care, hospice home stay, and memorial expenses.

Teresa had chronic health issues since birth and had always been patient and hopeful, waiting for the next treatment or procedure to improve her life. Born with Spina Bifida and only given 6 months to live at birth, Teresa has been a fighter her whole life, overcoming many obstacles and making the most of difficult situations. Those of you who knew her, recognize her love of people and her empathetic heart, always advocating for and encouraging others. It was difficult for her to quit working when she needed to be available for her treatments and home recovery. This added to her family’s financial strain as well.

For the last eight years she had been on kidney dialysis, needing 3 sessions per week to sustain her. She had finally received news in July of 2018 that she had been placed on the transplant list for a new kidney, but after contracting COVID, she was removed from the list, and sadly, never regained her health to be returned to the list. Her frequent dialysis took a toll on her systems and damaged her heart. While awaiting further tests prior to heart surgery, she had numerous emergency trips to the hospital via ambulance. In her last hospital stay, she was informed that hospice care would be her next step and the family was alerted that her end-of-life care would begin. Learning this news and seeing her quick decline was difficult for the family.

Thank you for considering a donation to help defray the costs of Teresa’s sudden end-of-life medical care and memorial expenses. Teresa had about 50 surgeries during her lifetime. We know the gifts she received from those who donated blood for her. In her honor, we hope you will also consider donating blood during this time when there is a national blood supply shortage.

Thank you all for your love and prayers for the family. A celebration of Teresa's life will be held on Saturday, Jan. 20th at 2:00 p.m. Andreason's Funeral Home, 320 6th St, Springfield, OR