Waiting for the Wish of a Lifetime to Come Through!
My latest update: I am currently working on bringing a lifetime wish within reach! My new apartment will be a “dream home” that can last the rest of my life. The larger space will give me an additional bedroom that I can use as an office for paperwork and crafting.
My artwork:
My coloring artwork has come full circle, as thanks to the support of my community over the years, I am now able to concentrate on other aspects of my life.
The remaining pictures can be purchased in exchange for a donation to Help Hope Live in my honor at $20.00 for 1 and $30.00 for 2 with limited inventory.
I wish to thank everyone for your support as I continue on with my new endeavors.
My story:
I’ve had a long fight for independence. With the support of my community, I am thriving—and I’d love to tell you my story, show you how I found my hope and strength, and explain why fundraising has been such a key part of my journey to where I am today.
My name is Jane Koza, and I am a lifelong resident of Linden, NJ. In 2006, I became paralyzed while receiving surgery for an infection.
At just 47 year old, I was put in a nursing home. I was told I would be a lifelong resident. Or So they thought! They didn’t really know me!
With hard work and hope, I fought my way out – in 2019, I finally found my pathway to living independently.
Today, I am celebrating multiple years of independent living in my own ADA accessible apartment.
Along the way, fundraising and community support have been key ingredients to building my hope and independence. I have worked with the nonprofit Help Hope Live for fundraising, and I have sold my artwork through the nonprofit—making art has given me such pleasure, and I love being able to share it with the community.
All of the funds raised through this nationally trusted nonprofit Help Hope Live in my honor help cover critical unpaid medical and related expenses as a paraplegic amputee.
The nonprofit verifies my medical diagnosis and only pays verified medical and related expenses. Donations are tax deductible.
Learn about me in the NJ Elder Ombudsman: www.facebook.com
And here’s even more of my story from nursing home to independent living in Linden:
At the age of 47, I was an active, healthy adult woman. In my youth, I was an all-star athlete excelling in both basketball and softball, so the years of playing did take a toll on my body. It was apparent that I would need arthroscopic knee surgery to repair the torn cartilage. It had progressed to the point where I could barely walk.
The arthroscopic knee surgery did not go quite as planned. I contracted MRSA, better known as a staph infection that led to a second surgery. This time it was a total knee replacement. Again, I became infected with MRSA, this time infecting the bone. I have no knee joint.
I returned home with a badly infected knee and slipped into a coma for a brief period. Doctors gave me no chance to recover. That night I went into a grand mal seizure and, though I awoke with a fully intact mind, I went into arthritic septic shock causing yet another infection. This time it traveled to my spine, causing a rare autoimmune disease called transverse myelitis. It paralyzed me from the chest down.
To have gone from a healthy, active person to one living in a nursing home was devastating but I refused to let these past 12 years of health issues hold me back.
My dream became securing my independence and relief from being bedridden.
I started fundraising for those medically-related expenses that insurance will not cover but are necessary to improve my quality of life dramatically.
First on my list was a specially designed cushion for my wheelchair that would help alleviate pressure points that resulted in multiple bedsores.
The frame of my old wheelchair had somehow become bent. A new but basic wheelchair became my next goal.
In November of 2018 I had my left leg amputated, it was just a few short months after having my right leg amputated in the summer of 2018.
My legs were amputated because of complications due to the MRSA and in the case of my left leg a broken leg and femur.
Those months of recovery were not easy, but they have also been uplifting – because I found the strength to move forward.
I pursued physical therapy at Kessler Rehabilitation in West Orange, NJ, where I was taught how to transfer myself out of my wheelchair to a bed, sofa, or anywhere necessary. It was an important step to becoming independent.
Throughout this journey, I had to remind myself of my strength and that I can still move forward.
I applied for and received a wish from The Twilight Wish Foundation. An organization, like the Make a Wish Foundation, grants wishes, but in this case to seniors.
I asked for a trip to Yankee Stadium because I’d never been there before and they gave it to me. I went on September 15th to see the Yankees play the Toronto Blue Jays. I celebrating my 60th birthday. I got to wear a World series ring (I had to give it back) I saw the trophy and had a phenomenal time.
I began selling my art both in-person and online to help fund some of my most necessary medical and related expenses.
Today, I continue to fundraise with Help Hope Live and I also give back to my community in any way I can – such as through this campaign I initiated to get a new bingo machine for the residents of my old nursing home in early 2024: helphopelive.org
So, despite everything that has happened, I am still here and I am still moving forward.
Your support and belief in me has helped me continue on this journey called life. This is not something that I can achieve on my own.
Please know that your contribution counts.
With sincere gratitude,
Jane Koza
908-494-6057
mauijanexx@gmail.com
For more information on this fundraising campaign in my honor, please contact Help Hope Live at 800.642.8399.
For Checks:
Make checks payable to: Help Hope Live
Note in memo section: In honor of Jane Koza
Please send to: Help Hope Live
2 Radnor Corporate Center
Suite 100,
100 Matsonford Road
Radnor, PA 19087
Updates (29)
June 21, 2024
Thank you to Andy Williams for this coverage of my journey to get here. www.nj.gov
April 10, 2024
Updates!!
I will celebrate 6 YEARS of independence made possible through support from this community in October 2024.
I've upgraded to a spacious 2-bedroom apartment.
The support I've received over the years has allowed me to find ways to give back to my community and help others: I was able to champion the process of getting a new bingo machine for the AristaCare facility.
Take a look at the photos I've added to the 2024 News - Bingo and the local news coverage!
June 20, 2023
The summer art show are upon us this year I have 14 events scheduled for art show around Union county New Jersey.
They range from to metuchen to Cranford my major outdoor events.
I have 5 different in door events scheduled capping off with my alma maters mother seton who have always been my best supporters.
The summer season goes from April through December.
Thank you for the great help of Peggy Qualy and Elaine Alverez without there support it would have been a long hot summer.
April 20, 2023
In the years of my independence with over 3 years and counting I much to be thankful for.
I have successfully transitioned from the nursing home to living successfully in my own independent living apartment.
To help me along the way I have developed my adult coloring with permanent markers skills to the point where I’m now becoming recognized as a accomplished artist.
I’ve been working on my artwork for 8 years and counting and have grown into quite a successful artist.
My artwork has been recognized in the linden public library for over a year.
I’ve had my artwork displayed at Kessler Instute for rehabilitation.various craft fairs in the union county are.I’ve been recognized for the roselle park art festo be commissioned to do there official art poster for the festival which was quite an honor.
I’ve now progressed to the point where I’m entering juried art exhitions.
The latest being the union county senior artist competition.
The possibilities are endless.
My artwork has given me a new dimension in my life that I never dreamed possible.
This craft has become my passion and even after years of honing my craft I fell like each new piece brings me the same joy as if it was like the first picture I ever did way back in the beginning.
So I would like to thank everyone for your support and encouragement and hope to see you in person at one of art exhibits.
September 20, 2022
Special thanks to Morgan and the News 12 team for taking the time to share my story! newjersey.news12.com
December 14, 2021
In the news! unionnewsdaily.com
August 25, 2021
On august 8 I returned to Yankee with my friend Peggy.w enjoyed a game against the Seattle Mariners.
Our seats were right behind home plate field level.
Thank you to the Yankees Cristina Campana who donated he handicap seats.
It was a great biofuels the game.
On September 19 I will return to Yankee stadium with 4 tickets to see the Yankees play the Cleveland Indians.this time I will take my sister and 2 friends from my high school mother seton.
The mvp tickets were won at the mother seton tricky tray.
As my independence continues to progress mylife is growing by leaps and bounds .
Enjoying a full unrestricted life.
August 22, 2021
As my quest for the ultimate in independence continues I returned to Kessler after my wounds of life had finally healed.
A big shout out to dr Zeitels of the Woundcare center with his extraordinary expertise helped healed my wounds finally after a 14 year saga of infection and problems.
I’m finally free to live my life free once and for all.
As I’ve returned to Kessler for further rehabilitation after the COVID-19 crisis a big shout to the staff with special support from Elizabeth and Maureen the best training group of special needs anyone could ask for.
At the present time I’m relearning how todo a transfer to gain even more independence.
My dream for total independence continue with hard work and a great attitude along with the help of the Kessler Instute staff.
My dream could not be possible without the great staff help and encouragement.
August 20, 2021
As my second year of independence approaches I’ve finally started to settle into my new lifestyle.
I’m enjoying the simple pleasures of life with time spent alone enjoying my artwork and time spent with friends and family.
It has been quite the journey but I’ve realized my dream of living independently successfully.
My apartment is lovely filled with my artwork and stained glass lamps.
I’ve finally made a nice home that I can call home.
As my new life progressed my artist talents of my adult coloring with permanent markers as really taken off to a successful endeavor.
So far I have done art shows in roselle park and mother seton and this year will be repeated.
In my hometown of linden I’m doing a art exhibit for the residents to see and possibly purchase a picture for a great cause.
In the near future a Facebook page will include my artwork for purchase
So the future loo Very promising as I continue my independence with a positive attitude.
November 26, 2020
As the date of October 16,2020 approached it was my one year anniversary of having successfully made the transition to my new apartment.
The transition was smooth with the help of my friends it took approximately 3 months to put the apartment together. It was no small task but I enjoyed every minute of it.
Leaving the nursing home was a major endeavor in itself.no one gave me a chance of successfully making the transition but here I am today over a year later living successfully in my own ada handicapped apartment.
I’ve made a new home for myself decorating walls with my artwork.
I love my home and feel very comfortable here.
This place called the apartment at saint Elizabeth has become my peaceful resting place that I had been yearning for for many decades.
Thank everyone who has supported me.
September 10, 2019
In my quest for independence I’m finally realizing my dream of getting a barrier free apartment called the apartments at st Elizabeth’s in my hometown of linden. It’s equipped with all the necessary equipment to live independently.
It has been a dream come true for me to leave the nursing home where I have been a resident for 13 long years.the time has come for my dream to become a reality.with your help I can make my dream come true.
August 20, 2018
HI everyone, Twilight Wish Foundation has granted my wish for a trip to Yankee Stadium. On September 15th, celebrating my 60th birthday, me and a friend will travel by van to Yankee stadium and attend the Yankees game against the Toronto Blue Jays. Included in the package are two Yankee Legend Suite seats, meeting with former Yankee players and an all you can eat buffet. This is a great gift and Ican't wait to get to Yankee Stadium.
And there's more... In November an old friend is taking me to see Elton John at Madison Square Garden. This is Sir John's final tour and I'm really glad that I will have the opportunity to see him live in New York.
Also, as I mentioned, I've started painting again and I will soon put some of my pictures up for auction. Details will follow soon.
Thank you
December 20, 2017
My campaign and art projects were featured in the latest Help Hope Live holiday Blog post! See it here: blog.helphopelive.org
June 21, 2017
My story was featured on the Help Hope Live Blog! Check it out: blog.helphopelive.org
March 28, 2017
its been a long hard road but thanks to the generous donations of friends particularly to those of the Mother Seton Alumni the long awaited arrival of the Blue Opal Quickie Lite wheelchair will arrive today.
The new wheelchair will enhance my independence as well as physically and aesthetically.
I'm truly blessed by the outpouring of support in which I have received.
It's true you can go home again to MSR to the best days of my life.
I wish to thank all of my contributors once again for their generous support and donations.
February 5, 2017
at this point in time I would like to thank all of my friends for their generous donations towards the purchase of my new and much needed wheelchair.
At this time I have reached the monetary level of covering some of the cost of the wheelchair reaching close to the purchasing price.
Your heartfelt donations are greatly appreciated and will be put to good use.
towards the wheelchair and my independence.
Thank you once again for your generosity.
January 23, 2017
Dear Friends,
I want to take this opportunity to thank you all for your past donations. I am asking you, once again, if you could find it in your hearts to continue your support to help me in purchasing a new wheelchair. I have reached the half way point but still need to raise $1000.00. This chair would help me to be more independent and functional.
Any amount would help!!! I thank you for your past and continued support! With greatest gratitude!!!!!
Donations can be made to HelpHopeLive
Sincerely
Jane Koza
January 12, 2017
NEW WHEELCHAIR DESPERATELY NEEDED
January 12, 2017
As the new year has begun I wish to thank my friends for their prayers and donations.
I appreciate each and every one.
A special shout out to the MSR alumni for all of your help.
The fund has allowed me to purchase medical necessities for which I couldn't afford on my own.
At this point in time I'm in desperate need of a new wheelchair for the present chair is worn out and lasts only 5 or 6 years.
My present chair is now 6 years old.
Any donation towards a new chair would be greatly appreciated.
I wish to thank you for everything that has been done to help the cause.
November 30, 2016
Many people are inclined to believe that your most formative years are that of your high school days. If that is the case I have been truly blessed to have spent my four years at Mother Seton Regional (MSR) in Clark. Looking back I can honestly say the best carefree and happiest days of my life. The setting and the feeling of togetherness made you feel as if you were somewhere special.
This is where I came into my own in the start of organized sports which included playing in basketball and softball. These were by far the days for laying the groundwork for a future in life and other future levels of organized sports.
At MSR being part of a team was something special and in or senior years winning championships in both basketball and softball. These were very rewarding moments of my life. I enjoyed every minute of those days. The good old days will never be forgotten.
Graduating in the bicentennial year of 1976 was one of the biggest highlights of my life,
November 30, 2016
As December arrives it has come to be my one year anniversary of my mammoth and very successful urinary diversion surgery. Finally after a decade of compromised health issues that nearly killed me on several occasions I'm finally enjoying health in sound mind and body with my only issue being a paraplegic.
As I enjoy my new found health I have realized that it has taken me a full year to recover and experience the pleasures of everyday life the world has to offer.
I have persevered through the hardest times and now it is my true believe that the future is limitless for me.
It has always been my goal and intention to leave this facility and become more independent.
With the new coming year I believe all is possible.
Thank you my friends for keeping me in your thoughts and prayers.
November 21, 2016
it has been a while since my last update but I'm happy to report great progress in my health as my one year anniversary approaches of my very successful massive urinary diversion surgery.
At this point I'm enjoying a sense of health and well being that I can enjoy the good quality of life that being healthy has afforded me.
It true if you don't have your health you don't have anything.
I thank you for keeping me in your thoughts and prayers has it has greatly helped to improve my situation.
I wish you my friends a Happy and Healthy Holiday Season.
March 11, 2016
just recently I recieved my 3 month check up after my mammoth urinary diversion surgery
The check up was great and the doctor was given the thumbs up as successful in his surgery
Periodically check ups with be performed but the hard part is over
March 11, 2016
just recently I started attending the Kessler wound care clinic to assist me in healing those nagging bedsores
The initial consultation was both informative and helpful.
I will be attending the clinic once a week until those issues are healed.
In essence I'm healing the wounds of life
March 11, 2016
On March 4th, the Tricky Tray Auction was held at MSR. The event was packed with alumni and guests! It was great to see some familiar faces and visit with old friends. The fundraiser was an astounding event for the school and myself. I was so deeply touched by the outpouring of support.
February 24, 2016
on Monday February 22 I finally went to Kessler for my long awaited mapping for the seat cushion.it was a awesome productive hour with much that was accomplished.
The cushion was computerized and mamped out the area for the compromised pressure sores.
The Kessler team was outstanding in their expertise in totally realigning the complete chair.
The cushion should arrive in a few weeks and I will return to Kessler one more time for the fitting of the cushion and chair.
Thank you all for your donations and continued support
January 8, 2016
tomorrow will be my one month anniversary of a new chapter of my life towards independence with urinary diversion surgery I had on
December 8th. The surgery was a complete success and couldn't have asked for a better outcome.
I'm recovering and healing up nicely with the hope of a new and improved healthy life.thank you for all of your prayers and support.
January 7, 2016
on January 13th I will finally be going to Kessler for the much anticipated mapping for the seat cushion. Wish me luck as I'm counting down the days of my new beginning.
A very happy new year to all
Thank you again for all of your heartfelt supports
November 24, 2015
My heartfelt thanks for all of your support! I've reached my initial goal and can now afford to purchase a customized wheelchair cushion from Aquila called sofTech (pictured below). My next goal is to raise funds to go to rehab post-surgery. Happy Thanksgiving to all!
Photo Galleries (29)
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Guestbook
July 4, 2024
Thanks for your support of a local small business.
JULIEN'S Army&Navy
May 17, 2024
Stay strong keep going
Charlie Mafargeh
July 6, 2023
Thank you for the artwork!!
Marie Christiano
December 2, 2022
Jane's can-do spirit is amazing. We met in grammar school and she still has the same after all these years. When she sets her mind to doing something, it happens. She's the definition of 'rocking on' with grace and kindness.
Paula Harvan
November 29, 2022
Hi Jane,
I would like to purchase the Owl on the Moon picture.
Thanks Ila
Ila Rasmussen
October 25, 2021
Jane as I went to high school together. I am in awe of all she has done to maintain her independence! Her art work is amazing! I am very interested in the peacock picture.
Carol Vaughn
August 13, 2021
Art
Anonymous
July 20, 2021
Thank you for the first Hope artwork you created for us!
Anonymous
December 2, 2020
Miss you Jane wishing you the best of luck
Laquanda Sanders
September 17, 2019
Jane -- you are an amazing person -- never giving up on your hopes, dreams and goals. I think of you often when I drive past the nursing home on my way to work, and I say a little prayer for you. I hope you are in your new apartment very soon!
Mary Phillips
September 14, 2019
Please contribute to help Jane's dream become a reality. She's really is an amazing person who just doesn't give up - no matter what the circumstance!
Paula Harvan
February 6, 2017
Hi Jane, I hope my donation helps you get your wheelchair soon. Stay strong and God Bless you. Will keep you in my prayers.
- Madelyn Estornell Simon
January 12, 2017
Hi Jane, I hope my donation will help you in your recovery. I am recovering from hip replacement surgery & I had a MRSA infection before surgery. It is my privilege to help a Seton Sister. Best regards & continued progress.
Kathleen Flanagan
March 7, 2016
I'm happy to see the progress you are making. I know it's been a long, hard road.
May your light continue to shine brightly.
Kay Osborn
December 10, 2015
Jane - I hope the cushion is giving you relieve and hope you can get the chair very soon. Best of luck to you - your story and meeting you at Delaire truly touched me.
Yissel Yi
November 26, 2015
Jane I hope my donation helps to get you to your goal! You were in high school and continue to be a inspiration!
Mary Margaret Gorda Buklarewicz
November 21, 2015
Jane - Wishing you the best!
Swedler
November 17, 2015
Jane, So sorry to hear about your health struggles. I wish you all the best and hope you regain your independence real soon!!
Barbara David Monte
November 16, 2015
I'm so sorry to hear this. I hope my donation and others' will help you get not only your SofTec cushion for you but more independence for you SOON. I hate to think of you suffering like this. Please reach out to me if you need a caring ear or to give me good news on your recovery! xoxo
Peg McCrohan Teichman
November 15, 2015
Reach for the stars my friend. Hope to see you soon!
Kennedy
November 14, 2015
Jane - wish you the best.
Kathy Williams Villaggio
November 13, 2015
I wish the best to you.hope you receive the cushion needed to further progress to get rehab.
Donna poko
November 13, 2015
Jane - all the best for a successful campaign! I hope you raise enough funds to buy your seat cushion.
Mary Phillips
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Make checks payable to:
Help Hope Live
Note in memo:
In honor of Jane Katherine Koza
Mail to:
Help Hope Live
2 Radnor Corporate Center
Suite 100
100 Matsonford Road
Radnor, PA 19087
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