October 22, 2019

Two more weeks on IV antibiotics. Surgery on my ear. And then well on my way to a new pancreas! Thank you for your love and support!!

August 24, 2019

I have been type 1 insulin-dependent diabetic for 33 years. During those years I have suffered unconsciousness, seizures and near-death episodes of low blood sugar on several occasions. At one point, I was in Des Moines, driving on the interstate 65 mph and had a seizure. Thank God my sister was a passenger. She somehow took over the steering wheel and maneuvered us off of the interstate, through 2 stop lights and into a parking lot safely without injuring us or anyone else. She had to go into a gas station and get me orange juice right away to increase my blood sugar. Two years ago, on Christmas Eve, I passed out having a low blood sugar and had to have an injection of Glucagon (a medication to release sugar from your liver) in order to live. The very next day, Christmas Day, I suffered a seizure from a low blood sugar and had to have another injection.

In the beginning, I was more aware of low blood sugar symptoms. Now, after 33 years, I no longer have awareness of these things happening. Diabetes treatment has come a long way in 33 years and it is amazing. Now, I have the opportunity to have a pancreas transplant which would be an instant cure!!

It is an amazing opportunity. I have been through an extensive workup to prepare. I would have to be off work for 6 weeks and will have to have someone available 24 hours a day for at least 3 weeks after the surgery.

I have worked hard my entire life. I have raised 2 amazing children. I am 50 years old and I need some help. I am not asking for assistance to pay for the procedure, I have and pay for private insurance. I do have some short-term disability while I am off work. I need assistance with living expenses while in Madison, Wisconsin, and with travel back and forth.

If possible, please consider making even a small donation.

Thank you!!!

August 18, 2019

As of Friday, August 16, I was added to the Pancreas Transplant List for the University of Wisconsin. As soon as my skin infection in my ear is clear, I will become “active.” When I do become “active” I am the #1 candidate for transplant!!! After 33 years of type 1 diabetes and all of the complications that I have suffered with it, I am more than ready!!