
Love 4 Lisa
Donation protected
When Lisa McMahon, age 51, started to feel "off," she and George chalked it up to work exhaustion. Lisa was working nights again--12-hour shifts--at Quantico Marine Base. Lisa and George had also brought home a new puppy. Lisa only just retired from law enforcement in July 2019, after 30 years of service, 22+ years of which were spent with the City of Fredericksburg. (The City of Fredericksburg stopped giving their retirees Healthcare or letting them purchase it thru the city. This change was made by the city council just before she was hired.)
However, when Lisa's coloring and appetite drastically changed, to the point she was jaundice, George knew his wife needed medical attention. Lisa was admitted to Stafford Hospital on Thursday, March 5. They soon learned that the jaundice was caused by complete liver failure. It is likely because of a Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease (NAFLD)--a condition her maternal grandfather succumbed to. After a week of more tests, including a liver biopsy, as well as a biopsy of her lung and an upper GI test, Lisa was diagnosed with advanced colon cancer. The cancer has spread to her lymph nodes and lungs.
Because of the cancer in her body, a liver transplant is not an option. Until Lisa's bilirubin number is at a one (her bilirubin fluctuates between a 10 and 16; normal bilirubin range is 0.2 to 1.2), chemo is not an option.
Lisa was discharged from Stafford Hospital on March 19 and is now receiving hospice care at home-- but she is NOT giving up. George is waiting for a call-back from John Hopkins, but due to COVID-19, it will take a few days.
In addition to prayers, Lisa and George need all the love and support we can offer. George is Lisa's sole caregiver and providing around-the-clock care to his wife. We know many want to support them. At this time, a meal or monetary support is an awesome way to help carry them through this. We are in the process of setting up a meal train and a link where you can donate online.
From the bottom of our hearts, we thank you for the love, encouragement, and support you have shown Lisa and George.
Xo, Dawn Kerns (Lisa's best friend) and Vanessa Weglian AKA Butt-nessa (Lisa's cousin)
Organizer
Donna Sehl
Organizer
Fredericksburg, VA