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Dear Family and Friends,
I am writing to ask for your prayers and support for my husband, Steve. He was born with a congenital heart condition called TGA (Transposition of the Great Arteries). Steve has struggled with condition all of his life, although he never complained nor thought about stopping work. At ages three and 21, Steve required open heart surgery. After the second surgery, Steve began working full time and enjoying life.
Steve and I met in 1998, married in 2001 and had our beautiful daughter, Gianna in 2003. In late 2008, Steve’s health deteriorated and he lost his job in 2009. He tried to return to work in 2011 as his health declined even further and in 2012, Steve had his third open heart surgery. Six months later, Steve was told that his only chance at a healthy life would be to have a heart transplant. Before evaluations could begin, Steve was rushed to the hospital on January 1, 2013 where it was determined that he would need an artificial heart — a bridge-to-transplant — as his health was so compromised. On July 5, 2013, Steve had his heart removed and the artificial one implanted. He will remain in Brigham and Women’s until a compatible donor heart is available. It’s hard to imagine a person living with no human heart. Steve and I are so proud of our daughter, Gianna, who has been such a trooper through this — she inspires us with her positive energy and loving personality.
Even with insurance, Steve will have many uninsured transplant-related expenses such as: co-pays and deductibles, doctor visits, travel and temporary relocation to the Boston area and the costly immunosuppressant medications that he will need to take for the rest of his life.

Due to the upcoming astronomical expenses with the hospital stay and heart transplantation, a fundraising campaign in Steve’s honor has been established with HelpHOPELive, a nonprofit organization that has been assisting the community for 30 years. All donations are tax-deductible, are held by HelpHOPElive in the Northeast Heart Transplant Fund, and are administered by HelpHOPELive for transplant-related expenses only. Please consider making a donation today.Gianna and I greatly appreciate your positive thoughts and prayers. Your continued support and contributions are truly treasured and will help Steve survive this difficult journey.

With love and appreciation,
Jennifer DiSumma
jenniferdisumma@yahoo.com

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August 6, 2013

Uncle Steven I love you!

Get Well Soon!

Go Cowboys!

John DiSumma jr