Vanessa Trotter's Big Heart

One of the first things you notice about Vanessa is her bright smile.  Spend just a few moments with her and you'll realize it's her big heart that makes everyone fall in love with her. 

That heart is in trouble. Vanessa has been diagnosed with pulmonary embolism and heart failure.  She received care in the Cardiac Care Unit at Asante Rogue Medical Center for a week including a coronary catheter. Her condition is severe enough to require transport OHSU in Portland. 



She arrive on the evening of November 1st by air ambulance and immediately began treatment with their heart team. They removed and replaced her coronary catheter.  Her future will likely include a heart transplant. This will include months and months of treatment and recovery. It's clear from the doctors that whatever happens it will significantly change their lives. 

**** Learn More About Vanessa's Current Condition and Treatment on CaringBridge  - updated daily by her partner Michael Maxson****

Since she arrived in the ER on October 24th, her partner of 11 years, Michael has not left her side. Her fiercest defender and biggest advocate, Michael has quickly learned everything he can about cardiac care. While they love to adventure together and explore new places, this is one adventure they never wanted to find themselves on.

Even with health insurance coverage, Vanessa and Michael face tens of thousands of dollars in out of pocket costs. Vanessa has been the primary earner since Michael went back to school. While Michael not working has been a financial challenge, it is also a blessing. Because of this, Michael can devote himself entirely to caring for and supporting Vanessa during this time and whatever the future holds.

Please consider supporting Vanessa and her cardiac care with a financial contribution. A quick breakdown of the costs they face is below:

$22,000 - Medical/Pharmaceutical out of pocket 
$12,000 - Lodging, food, transportation, incidentals in Portland
$11,000 - Loss of Income 

As daunting as the financial burden is, the emotional toll on Vanessa and Michael can not be ignored. While still in their 30's they are dealing with things no one ever wants to experience. Prayers, kind words and encouragement is always needed and Vanessa loves to hear Michael read off the texts and comments from friends, family members and supporters. 



This page is monitored by Erin Maxson, Vanessa's Sister-in-law.
Financial support can also be made personally through Venmo.

Profile Photo - Vanessa in at Uluru Rock in Australia 
#1 & 2 Photos - Vanessa being air lifted to Portland on November 1st 
#3 Photo - Vanessa & Michael in Florida
#4 Photo - Vanessa & Michael feeding kangaroos in Brisbane, Australia
#5 Photo - Vanessa & Michael at Jon (brother) and Amy's wedding with family
#6 Photo - Vanessa & Michael at Grand Canyon with family
#7 Photo - Vanessa & Michael in Bend, Oregon with family 
#8 Photo - Vanessa outside the Africa exhibit at the Australia Zoo
#9 Photo - Vanessa & Michael pose for a photo on the Oregon Coast
#10 Photo - Vanessa concurring her fear - snorkeling in St. Thomas