Help Denise Warner Breathe Again: Support Her Lung Transplant Journey
Family and friends of Denise Warner are raising money for the nonprofit Help Hope Live to fund uninsured medical expenses associated with a Transplant. Denise has chosen to fundraise with Help Hope Live in part because donations are tax deductible for contributors and will only be used to cover medical and related expenses.
Help Denise Breathe Again: Support Her Lung Transplant Journey
Denise Warner has spent her life inspiring creativity and nurturing others. From teaching in public schools to guiding students as a professor at Lock Haven University, while bringing art to life at countless Theatres as a costume designer, Denise retired from her artistic career at the Orlando Shakespeare Theatre having touched countless lives. She has been more than an educator: She’s been a friend, a family member, a mentor, and a source of comfort for anyone lucky enough to cross her path. She has shared meals, lent a listening ear, and offered unwavering support to the students, actors, and designers she worked with while pouring her heart into her craft.
Now, it’s our turn to support Denise. She is undergoing a double lung transplant at the Mayo Clinic in Jacksonville, Florida. Denise is in the hospital until her surgery (which could happen anytime in the next few weeks). Following her transplant, she will remain hospitalized for roughly a month then transition to a rental home in Jacksonville with her sister and caregiver, Deb, for the next 3–5 months. During this time, Denise will require daily medical appointments, and both will need safe, stable housing as well as support for food, transportation, and other medical expenses.
Even in the hospital, Denise brings joy to those around her. She dances to the music played during her daily walks, waves like a grand marshal in a parade as she is wheeled to tests, and spreads smiles to nurses and staff because being a forgettable patient is simply impossible for her. Her spirit is infectious, and her goal remains the same: Make those around her smile while facing life-saving surgery.
Your support can help Denise and Deb focus solely on healing. Donations will go towards:
Temporary housing for 4–6 months in Jacksonville
Food and daily living expenses
Transportation and medical costs
Please share this page and consider donating to help ensure Denise’s journey to recovery is one filled with hope and care—not financial worry. Together, we can lift the burden off her shoulders so she can continue to bring warmth, laughter, and comfort to everyone she meets.
Let’s help Denise breathe again.
Updates (17)
March 22, 2026
Hello everyone,It has been a little while since our last update on Denise’s recovery, and we’re so grateful for your continued support.Denise and Deb have been fully immersed in this new chapter of life following Denise’s lung transplant. While her journey has been filled with progress, there was a frustrating setback in January that required a return to the hospital. Though difficult, it served as a humbling reminder that healing is not always linear—sometimes a step back is part of moving forward.Since being discharged at the end of January, Denise has truly been on the move—both literally and figuratively. She is embracing this second chance with appreciation, determination, and joy. She has undergone two bronchoscopies (procedures used to examine how her lungs are functioning), and each time doctors have noted encouraging improvements.In February, Denise completed one-on-one physical therapy, focusing on balance and mobility. She has since progressed to a group-based cardiopulmonary program, where she continues to set and achieve new goals. One exciting milestone: she can now walk on the treadmill for 37 minutes! She is also relying less and less on her walker.As Denise works toward a return to “normal,” there are still some unknowns. Initially, the hope was to return home by the end of March. Doctors are now estimating April 19th (fingers crossed), though that timeline could shift depending on how her recovery continues.Denise and Deb remain incredibly grateful for the donations received so far, which have helped ease the burden of housing during their stay in Jacksonville. As her recovery continues, medical bills are beginning to arrive, and the need for support remains.We kindly ask that you consider sharing Denise’s story with your network. If you are able, please consider making a donation. All contributions made through Help Hope Live are tax-deductible. Help Hope Live is a nonprofit organization that carefully vets each case, ensuring that donations go directly toward medically necessary expenses.As always, your prayers, uplifting messages, and positive thoughts mean just as much and are deeply appreciated.Thank you for being part of Denise’s journey.
January 19, 2026
Click or copy and paste the web addresses below to see video updates from Denise. https://drive.google.com/file/d/15Ks49MsSDd1M7DQMzFe5E4pTMAdoNpJm/view?usp=sharinghttps://drive.google.com/file/d/1g65SI6Tb834Zhan_Y_UB4EEpLyIxuotI/view?usp=sharing
January 18, 2026
Happy Joyful New Year from Denise and Deb! We know it has been a few weeks since our last update. As we mentioned from the beginning, medical professionals warned that this would be a long road for Denise and Deb—and the last nine days have proven they were right.Since leaving the hospital in late December, Denise has been battling edema. Her doctors needed to change some medications to give her kidneys a break, which unfortunately allowed the edema to run amok and fill her new lungs with fluid. On Friday, January 9th, Denise was admitted back to the hospital and is hoping to return home on Monday, with the edema under control.These past nine days have been a bit of a rollercoaster. The doctors gently remind Denise and Deb that this is all to be expected. While this recovery looks different from what Denise had envisioned, she accepts that sometimes three steps forward require one step to help balance new medications and treatments.This hospital stay may mean Denise remains in Jacksonville longer than the originally planned mid-March timeline. Denise knows this is a long journey and, true to who she is (no surprise there), she is willing to do the hard work it takes to get back to the energy level where she thrives.We are hoping to share a video of Denise later today so she can speak directly to everyone—so stay tuned. Again, prayers, kind thoughts, cards, flowers, and donations are all extremely appreciative and help relieve stress.
December 31, 2025
I know it has been a few weeks since I was able to update you all, but please know that time has not kept Denise from moving forward. She is learning—day by day—the balance between freedom and the necessary constraints of her new life with new lungs.I was fortunate enough to spend a few days with Denise and Deb and can share where they are—both figuratively and literally.First, hats off to both Denise and Deb. Denise, as always, is hard to keep down. She stays busy learning her medications, discovering which foods agree (and disagree) with her, and—perhaps the hardest lesson—learning her limits. In every free moment, she is itching to do something, whatever that may be at the time. True to Denise form, she is tough on herself, with big ideas that don’t always align with reality (she once told me she wanted to walk around the neighborhood six times a day). Her blood sugar and digestion gently remind her that she is human—regardless of what anyone else might believe.And then there is Deb—the steady force who makes it all happen. She dutifully documents everything, knows and enforces limits, and organizes appointments, medications, and extra needs with the precision of a trained nurse, pharmaceutical technician, doctor, physical therapist, coordinator, and sister—all in one. Denise is learning to accept that someone else is now “in charge” of the costumes and quick changes. This is not a role for the weak, but one that Denise and Deb are more than capable of handling, with those watching left in awe as the art unfolds.While it may sound like a beautiful performance, this is a very different life. Hours are spent preparing and taking medications, completing required movement and exercises, and attending doctor appointments that would make anyone’s head spin—all while carefully balancing food and self-care. Managing these basics alone fills an entire day.Their appreciation for the donations goes without saying. Thank-yous will come in the months ahead, but right now they are still adjusting to a new life—one that takes every hour of the day. A life that is deeply worth it, because it involves living without oxygen tanks and without constantly wondering how much time is left. A life focused on healing, learning a new “normal,” and creating decades still left to live, love, and give.From the beginning, Denise has said her mission is to spread joy—and she has done just that. From decorating hospital wings with handmade stars, dancing to music, and waving like Queen Elizabeth, she brought smiles and laughter to overworked and underpaid hospital staff. One of my favorite moments was speaking with a social worker who told me how much everyone loves Denise and how much joy she brings wherever she goes.Thanks to donations, Denise and Deb have housing through January. In the coming days, we will begin various fundraisers to help cover housing costs in Jacksonville until they can return home—hopefully mid to late March. Stay tuned for Little Caesars fundraisers (available nationwide), Panda Express fundraisers (available anywhere Panda Express delivers), and possibly Denise-inspired wear that will showcase her incredible art while supporting her medical expenses. We will ask that you all spread these fundraisers far and wide.As we wrap up 2025, we wanted to share photos that capture Denise’s journey so far—from a year before surgery, when new lungs weren’t even a spark in her eyes, to a photo taken just yesterday as Denise and Deb settle into their three-month home in Jacksonville. I will add comments to specific photos with additional details. Thank you all again for the prayers, donations, love, support, messages, notes of encouragement, phone calls, and so much more. May you all have a blessed New Year, and as you celebrate tonight, please take a moment to think of Denise and Deb’s new year—and how it is possible because of those who love them and lift them up. Thank you.*Pictures will be added to the photo album. :) <3
December 19, 2025
12/18 - It’s been over a week since our last update, and we’re so grateful to finally share some more wonderful news.Less than three weeks ago, Denise received two new lungs, and she is doing AMAZING. She is up and moving around, having full conversations, and truly acting like someone with brand-new lungs—because she is! She is thankfully past the “surgery brain fog” and is thrilled at the prospect of being discharged from the hospital early next week.Denise is beyond thankful for every donation, prayer, and message of support. Because of your generosity, we have been able to secure housing for Denise and Deb through January. They will continue traveling to the hospital daily for the next several months and will remain in Jacksonville until at least sometime in March, assuming her recovery continues to go as well as it has been.While we are incredibly grateful for how much has already been covered, there are still many known and unknown expenses ahead. These include housing for February and March, medications not covered by insurance, medical bills insurance does not cover, transportation, possible medical equipment, and other unexpected needs.Because of this, we are exploring additional fundraising opportunities—some that also highlight Denise’s gifts or allow supporters to “help in two ways at once.” Examples include restaurant nights, where you can enjoy a meal and a portion of the proceeds goes toward Denise’s medical expenses. As these fundraisers are finalized, we hope you’ll share them with your friends and family. If you are willing to run a fundraiser in your 'neck of the woods' or social media circle, we would be so grateful!It is truly because of your prayers, love, support, and generosity that Denise has recovered so beautifully. Thank you for walking this journey with us. Stay tuned for more updates.Peace and love to all
December 7, 2025
12/6 Update From DebbieIt’s Saturday—exactly one week since Denise received her new lungs—and everyone is saying she’s doing great.She had a small tube in her nose to help remove fluid from her chest area, and that’s now out. Her catheter was removed, and this morning they also removed 2 of her 4 chest tubes (she originally had two on each side), so she’s down to just one on each side now.For pain control, she still has her epidural that releases small amounts of medication, but today she did have to ask twice for a little extra. Even so, she’s mainly just using Tylenol. She had another bronchoscopy today, and they used a much smaller amount of sedation this time. The doctor said everything looked really good.Her voice has come back pretty strong, and she’s sounding more and more like herself every day. Tomorrow morning, a speech therapist will check her swallowing ability so she can hopefully have some ice or water—honestly, that’s all she’s been asking for. We’re hoping tomorrow is the day she finally gets that water. Yeah!Every day she’s getting better and stronger. Now we just need her to get some solid sleep at night—she hasn’t slept well the last couple of nights. Please keep sending good thoughts and good vibes our way.
December 6, 2025
Debbie updates the last 2 days ✌️💕🙏12/4 – 1:43 PMOkay — They had to give her coffee through one of her IVs to try to wake her up more than she is, but no go. She has to be more awake before they will remove the tubes.She has been breathing by herself since yesterday afternoon (except during the night — the machine could take over if necessary).They even did the bronchoscopy without any pain medication, but still no go.She is alert — about twice as much as she was yesterday — but she falls asleep so fast that they will not pull her tubes. Physical therapy is coming in to get her up into her recliner chair — maybe that will do the trick. Fingers crossed.Debbie 👍♥️💕❤️💕♥️😀😀12/4 – 5:02 PMYeah!!!!!! The breathing tube is out. Talking will start soon, I hope. I am soooooooo happy.Debbie ♥️❤️♥️❤️👍👍👍💕💕💕12/5 – 10:51 AMOkay, big update for Friday. PT was here and Denise stood up all by herself. I can see walking and head-bopping coming up in the near future. And she’s in her chair instead of the bed.🎉🎉😀😀♥️♥️👍👍Debbie
December 3, 2025
12/3 Update from DebbieWell, Denise really had a very busy day. She had a bronchoscopy and also had an epidural put in for pain management. Then the physical therapist came in and got her sitting on the edge of the bed, working with her arms and a little bit with her feet and legs. The doctors came in at least four times, and her nurse kept checking on her—having her squeeze fingers, give a thumbs up, raise one arm and then the other, lift her shoulders, wiggle her toes, and even pretend to pump a gas pedal.She also got a good bath and did quite a bit of rolling back and forth so they could get clean sheets under her. And of course, I was bugging her by playing her rock-and-roll music very loudly in her ear so she would wake up.The head tech person finally came in and said it was time to give her a rest—she truly had a very busy day. They adjusted the machine and changed the settings so that when she did go to sleep, the machine would take over for her. (She had been breathing on her own most of the day, and they also stopped giving her the nitrate mix.)So tomorrow is going to be the day. I’m getting ready to send, hopefully, the good news that the tubes have been removed.Love, Debbie😀😀♥️💕♥️🫁😀😀♥️💕♥️
December 1, 2025
7:30 - This morning Debbie just got a phone call from Mayo. They are taking Denise back in for surgery this morning to see if the lungs are fitting so they can close her up. She will hear something back from the surgeon around 11:00ish. ❤️🙏🫁🙏❤️
November 29, 2025
4:26 PM - Ok. The surgery is done and she is back in the room. She is doing really great. No problems . They do have to take her back into the operating room on Monday because right now the new lungs are just a little too big but after a few days they maybe just right or they will only have to take 2 small pieces off that are not necessary - the wanted her to have the chance to see if they will fit in their new home. Both Doctors said they had no problems with the surgery they were able to put both right and left one in without any problem so things are looking GOOD. She will be sedated at least until Tuesday or even later. Thanks for all your prayers. Love. Debbie and Denise♥️♥️❤️❤️💕
November 29, 2025
2:20 PM - Both lungs are in. Proceeds
November 29, 2025
1:39 PM - They are transplanting the left lung now. The patient is stable. 😀👍
November 29, 2025
At 10:51 Right lung was implanted. Procedure in progress😊😊
November 29, 2025
9:14 AM - The actual procedure has started. It looks like it will be 10 or 12 hours? I will send updates as I receive them. 😀😀👍👍10:14 AM - Denise is on ECMO pump and is stable😀😀
November 29, 2025
11/29 7:37amIt is 7:37 and she went down the hall with "Eye of the Tiger" playing very loudly. Lungs are great . The surgeon came in to let her know they were great. I have been given a time period of 8 to 10 or 12 hours for the whole procedure. So it is time for her new 🫁 lungs. 👍👍♥️♥️❤️❤️
November 28, 2025
Updates from Debbie and Denise 11/288:55 AM - It is Friday. We are in the process of getting Denise ready for her new set of lungs . They got her up this morning and took another batch of blood/tested for Covid/ then let her have breakfast with the cutoff for food is going to be 9:00 am so we are now in our second run for new lungs!! They did call Denise and thought that the surgery would be around 9 or 10 pm tonight . So get all the prayers going that this set of lungs will be a perfect match. Love hugs and good wishes for this to be a GO. Debbie & Denise❤️❤️♥️♥️👍😀😀👍😀😀💕♥️💕❤️💕♥️4:32 PM - Friday update. As of now. Surgery is scheduled for 8;00 am tomorrow morning. We still will not know until almost that time if everything is good so keep the prayers coming our way. So far no news is good news. Debbie😀😀
November 24, 2025
Support Denise as She Awaits a Double Lung TransplantIt’s time for us to give back to Denise, who has offered so much support to countless people over the years. Denise is currently in Jacksonville, Florida awaiting a double lung transplant. Her devoted sister, Deb, is by her side helping her stay strong and hopeful for a “second wind.”The costs of living in Jacksonville, items not covered by insurance, and expenses that arise when insurance runs out are burdens that Denise and Deb should not have to worry about.Denise has touched so many lives—whether offering a listening ear, a creative solution, a way to maneuver costs to keep art alive, an enthusiastic “amazing!”, or a handmade bundle of love. If you know Denise, you likely remember a time she was there for you.Asking for help has never been Denise’s forte—she’s a doer. But now it’s our time to step in so her “to-do” list only has two items: heal and breathe.Throughout her career in costume design, Denise brought scripts to life using materials and chemicals that, sadly, have caused irreversible harm to her lungs. Now, the same community that has benefited from her creativity, generosity, and kindness can help her breathe again.Please consider:Donating to support her and Deb through this journeySharing this page to reach others who love and admire DeniseSending a message to lift her spiritsLet’s come together to show Denise the same love and care she has given all of us—helping her focus on healing, while we take care of everything else.
Photo Galleries (1)
Loading Images
Guestbook
March 17, 2026
Praying for your continued health and peace. God bless.
Connie Richards
February 24, 2026
Sending you much love, Denise!
Monica Tamborello
February 22, 2026
I’ve only had the privilege of working with Denise once, but that was enough for her to have left a mark on me with her kindness and her professionalism. Sending you all of the healing energy. I’m so glad that you were able to get the surgery and I’m looking forward to hopefully working with you in the near future but for now get your rest.
Anonymous
February 20, 2026
Sending so much love!!
Lisa Hardt
February 14, 2026
Dear Denise,
Just heard about your exciting journey with transplant......Spoke to Anne H. today and she will give you a card telling you how special and brave you are and how many people are rooting you back to excellent health.
You were a star at OST for so many years designing and creating such perfect costumes. Now you can sit back and just get well.....
Take care,
Pat Strasberg
Former OST board member & Gala Queen
Pat Strasberg
February 12, 2026
Wishing Denise a full recovery!
Valeria Shapiro
February 10, 2026
Sending all the healing vibes your way, Denise!!!
Deanna Gibson
February 10, 2026
Sending you much love, Denise. You were always there for me at Orlando Shakes and I'm happy I can be here for you.
Patrick Flick
February 10, 2026
Denise, we are sending you love and strength on your journey! All our best wishes, Sarah Mathews and Buckly Stephens
Sarah Mathews
February 9, 2026
Denise - You have supported me and the theatre for decades. I will support you in anything you do! Here's to a quick and wonderful recovery. Much love, Jim
Jim Helsinger
February 8, 2026
I love my Shakes family. I have been blessed to have enjoyed al the programming for the past 10 + years. I appreciate all the contributions to the world class performances including the spectacular costuming. Thank you Denise for your stellar contributions!!
Pamela Smith
February 7, 2026
Denise, best of luck with your treatment and recovery! Keith Koons
Keith Koons
February 7, 2026
For all the love you give, sending it back to you. Hugs!
Shannon Lacek
February 7, 2026
Denise,
I’m not sure if you remember me but I volunteered with you as a high school student in the costume shop on weekends for several years.
You made an indelible mark on me. I hold you as an example of kindness and calm, steady leadership. I had been working in professional theatre since 2008 and it is in large part because of you.
I wish you well and safe and smooth healing.
Sincerely,
Kate Laissle
Kate Laissle
February 7, 2026
Much love and healing coming your way Denise!
Jason Flora
February 7, 2026
Wishing you strength and healing, Denise! You are a wonderful, magical artist of the highest degree. Sending you love and gentle hugs.
Paula Rossman
February 7, 2026
Sending love and strength!
Kristina Tollefson
February 7, 2026
Denise,
You taught me so much during our time together at The Shakes! Hoping and praying for a speedy recovery. You remain one of the best bosses I\'ve ever had, and I miss you and Debbie.
Shayna McLaughlin
February 7, 2026
It's been almost a decade since I've seen you but thinking of you and wishing you a speedy recovery! From an 16/17 apprentice (and thank you for your artistry and support)!
Caitlyn Woods
January 20, 2026
Get well soon, Denise!
Kenneth Towery
January 4, 2026
All my love, Denise! Here's to a happy and healthy New Year!
Stephanie Spriggs
Stephanie Spriggs
January 3, 2026
I am so proud of you, Denise and Debby!❤️
Ruth Hering
January 2, 2026
You've got this Denise! You are a shining example of a good human, and I hope you feel all the love coming to you!
Alexander Mrazek
December 27, 2025
Merry Christmas! With love, Jennifer, Matthew, Patricia and Ethan
Jennifer Macsisak
December 6, 2025
Denise has been such a dear friend and so supportive of everyone in her life! This time we're the ones supporting her on this journey. Here's to Denise!
Richard Rauscher
December 2, 2025
Denise is an amazing artist who had given so much to our community. Sending you massive love Denise!
Mitzi Maxwell
December 2, 2025
Denise, I owe everything I have in my life to you and that seemingly simple suggestion you made all those years ago to try your hometown of Orlando as a place to start after graduation. My career my life here is all thanks to you. Please rest and get healthy soon so I can find an opportunity to hug you and thank you again in person. Love Stephen
Stephen Middleton
December 1, 2025
Dear Denise, I'm thinking of you and sending warm healing thoughts for a speedy recovery. I miss you and think of you often! Love, Carol (aka zee shrimp:-)
Carol Sirney
December 1, 2025
I love you, Denise! You are dear to my heart and have been an incredible mentor and friend to me for the past 20 years. Your kindness and generosity shaped who I am as an educator and as a person. I am holding you close and wishing you strength.
Monica Pasut
November 29, 2025
You are an amazing woman and I am so glad you found a match!
Noreen Marriott
November 28, 2025
Hi Denise - I am so sorry you are going through this. Many of my fondest memories from my LHU years have you right in the middle of them. You are treasured - sending much love.
xMo (Campbell) Schoenfeld
Maureen Schoenfeld
November 28, 2025
Denise Warner, you challenged me to be a better person both on stage and off. Thank you.
Toby Swaford
November 27, 2025
Denise!! You are such a light!! Sending love!
Alexis Harter
November 27, 2025
Sending you so much love, Denise!!
Colleen Doherty
November 26, 2025
Get well soon Denise.
Kurt Bippert
November 26, 2025
Sending you thoughts and prayers, Denise!
Brad Roller
November 26, 2025
Denise, sending love and healing vibes. You are a wonder of a woman. From one of the thousands of actors you have costumed beautifully.
Darlin Kalmes
November 26, 2025
Love you very much Denise.
David Mulle
November 26, 2025
Denise,
The LHU Theatre Department became my second home. You provided encouragement, support, and love for so many students!
Praying that you will receive the medical care that you need and you will find healing & peace.
With love,
Robin Strouse Callahan
Robin Callahan
November 25, 2025
What I have to say is ridiculously irrelevant, but saying it anyway: YOU LOOK FABULOUS. HEALTHY AND FIT! HOTTA HELP!
Penny Owen
November 25, 2025
Denise,
I am sorry to hear about your lung troubles. I remember my time working in the costume shop with fondness and that knowledge has come in handy over the years. You always let me use the serger, which I loved for some reason. I liked to call myself "the Sergen' general". I hope your transplant is a success and you are breathing easy soon!
Warmest Wishes,
Shelly Callahan
Shelly Callahan
November 25, 2025
Sending you spiritual strength and prayers for your quick recovery. You, Denise, have a true blue friend in Jennifer Carter and David Mulle. Best always. Because of your outgoing friendlyness an acceptance of others your fund will grow quickly. I am proud to be a part of this support group of feiends and family. Success toward your total recovery is in the works.
John B. Gordon
November 25, 2025
I remember our working together at Orlando Shakes. Wishing you well!
Jean Tafler
November 25, 2025
Denise,
I’ll never again hear the Shrek soundtrack and not think of you! The long days working in the costume shop at Orlando Shakes were made infinitely better by your spirit, encouragement, and the delirious laughs we all shared. You were not only the best boss I’ve ever had, but maybe one of the most wonderful people I’ve ever met. You’re in my thoughts always.
All my love.
Christina McCarty
November 25, 2025
Denise, I think of you often and all the things I learned from you at Lock Haven and in Michigan. I wish you a peaceful journey through this. You are so strong that I know you will work hard. I will pray for strength for you and calm hands for your doctors.
Lory (Fedor) Mundkowsky
November 25, 2025
Hope, prayers, peace, and so much love!!!
Jennifer, Matthew, Ethan and Patricia
