
Valarie's Heart Transplant Recovery Expenses
Donation protected
Hello, my name is September and my mother, Valarie health journey began in the fall of 2001 when she was diagnosed with Breast Cancer. She had surgery and started chemotherapy right away. As with any diagnosis that requires a form of intervention, there are advantages, but there can also be some risks. Well, my mom acquired the risk of heart complications. In 2011, she went for a heart test and upon leaving, she was called back to the hospital. At that moment, she was diagnosed with cardiomyopathy (enlarged heart). Despite various medications, her diagnosis advanced to Congestive Heart Failure. It was determined some years ago that she could no longer live alone and needed constant medical attention and care.
In October 2021, my mom went in to have a routine procedure done. Due to the results of that test, she was hospitalized for almost three weeks. Upon discharge, she was placed on an infusion pump that had to run 24/7 in order to keep her heart beating sufficiently. She was in need of a heart and placed on the transplant list. As a result, she had to stay put in Maryland for years awaiting the call. Her life became very restricted with the things she enjoyed most. Outside of being a cancer survivor, my mother is a very lively woman. However, when she was placed on the heart transplant list years ago, she started to feel hopeless due to her age. Imagine not feeling worthy or eligible to be a recipient of an organ because of your age despite doing everything required to get and stay on the list.
Here is a little background on my lovely mom. She is 73 years young. Before retiring in 2011, she served as an educator and administrator for over 30 years. She is a professional seamstress and interior decorator who loves helping others bring their vision to life, so much so that she opened Valique Fabric Store and sewing studio in 2006. She enjoys spending time with family (especially her grandson who has not seen her since she’s been hospitalized), driving, traveling, playing miniature golf, dancing, and watching movies, as well as supporting my dreams, goals and ambitions. We have always been and continue to be each other’s teammate, mother/daughter/grandson connection, and family.
I myself am a Registered Nurse who was working full-time. I’m also a mother of a young boy and a caregiver for my mother. As of June of 2022, her health began to decline further, resulting in more appointments, numerous tests, and more hospital stays. To date, needless to say, finances have become challenging throughout this journey. The process of managing all of our expenses, including but not limited to paying the mortgage, car loans, utilities, medical bills, alternative caregivers, and so much more, has become overwhelming.
Recently my mom had her heart transplant. She is in the hospital. Her immediate recovery period will be up to 6 months. It is expected that she will first be discharged to the acute rehabilitation center. After that, she will be coming home with services. While insurance pays for some things, it does not cover all medical expenses. Some things needed are medical equipment and supplies (not covered by insurance), personal items, a mattress for a remote platform bed, the cost of supplemental caregivers, etc. My family tends to be private people; but at this point, there is a greater need. I’m reaching out for financial support as I am unable to work full-time during her recovery journey as well as her being immunocompromised.
Thank you with much love, faith and gratitude,
September, Valarie and Family
Organizer
September Jones
Organizer
Baltimore, MD