Russell Mill’s life was thrown into upheaval when he was diagnosed with COPD (chronic obstructive pulmonary disease) and emphysema about 10 years ago. During this time he has lived with his diseases under the care and direction of his doctors. Unfortunately, about a year ago, his condition worsened so rapidly that he has been placed on a waiting list for a lung transplant at Duke Medicine in Durham, NC. Most recently, he has been diagnosed with pulmonary hypertension in addition to the other medical issues he faces.
No matter what his diagnosis, Russell remains in good spirits and is up for any challenges that may come his way. He does have a host of family and friends that include his mother, two sisters, three brothers, and his nieces and nephews. They all are very concerned and willing to help. Their love and support is appreciated more than words can express, but they can only do so much. He has 7 grandchildren and 2 step-daughters and has had a productive, rewarding life helping the homeless, people in need and counseling those with substance abuse issues. Russell would love nothing more than to get back to a healthy life, be a productive member of his community again and have many more years with those he loves so dearly.
After many years of helping others, Russell is now the one who needs your help and support. Transplants are life-saving but financially draining. Though Russell has insurance, there will be many out-of-pocket expenses. He and his caregiver will have to move to Durham, N. C. for at least 4-6 months as requested by his doctors, and transplant team. He has to be in the vicinity in case any concerns arise with his transplant afterwards. He will encounter living expenses there as well.
To help with the financial burden of Russell’s uninsured expenses, a fundraising campaign in his honor has been established with HelpHOPELive, a trusted nonprofit organization that has been providing community-based fundraising guidance to patients and their families for more than 30 years. All donations are tax-deductible, are held by HelpHOPELive in the South-Atlantic Lung Transplant Fund, and are administered by HelpHOPELive for transplant-related expenses only. Please consider a contribution.
For credit card contributions, please click the Donate Now button.
Your support is critical to the overall success of Russell’s struggle. Please know your contribution counts. On behalf of Russell and his family, we thank you in advance for your kind consideration.
With sincere gratitude,
Iris (Russell’s partner and caregiver)
704-568-9344
