Susan started noticing subtle changes in her physical abilities in May 2017. Shortness of breath while mowing the yard sent her for a Primary Care visit. Due to her doctor’s concerns, she was referred for a cardiac work-up which unexpectedly revealed a serious issue. Susan had dilated cardiomyopathy and heart failure. Through the loving, diligent care and support of doctors, family and friends, Susan bravely carried on with work and fulfilling obligations though the diagnosis brought numerous lifestyle changes.
On February 11, 2019, Susan was finally placed on the heart transplant registry. By God’s grace, many answered prayers and a most precious gift from a stranger, Susan received a call about a new heart March 11, 2019 (exactly one month from the day she was listed) and in the early hours of March 12th Susan went into surgery. Due to the dedication of doctors working to get her on the transplant list and the amazing care of nurses and doctors through complications encountered following the surgery, Susan now has a new and healthy heart.
Today Susan is in the early stages of her journey of recovery, but the swift progression of her illness, complications along the transplant journey (resulting in placement on ECMO and an extended stay in the ICU), many therapy visits, cardiac rehabilitation and countless anti-rejection medications not covered by insurance have resulted in mounting bills.
My wish and prayer is that through love and continued support of those who have been blessed by “Susan’s footprints”, we can help ease this financial weight. As a result, Susan can focus more on getting back to her normal routine including family, church, work and making memories with each of you.
Please join me in supporting our precious friend, Susan Cruse, through your donations to Help Hope Live. Help Hope Live assures fiscal accountability of funds raised and tax deductibility for contributors. Contributors can be sure donations will be used to pay or reimburse medical and related expenses. To make a tax-deductible donation to this fundraising campaign, click on the Give button. Together we can write a “happily ever after” ending to this story of faith, courage, love and joy!
Blessings to you each and everyone!
