Corey Warrington

Corey is a 28-year-old from Tallahassee, Florida, living with end-stage lung disease caused by emphysema of unknown origin and alpha-1 antitrypsin deficiency. Born critically ill and not expected to survive his first night, Corey has been defying the odds ever since. After years of medical appointments, treatments, and hospital stays, he was officially placed on the active lung transplant list on October 10, 2025.

Despite a lifetime of medical challenges, Corey has never let his condition define him. He’s a lifelong learner with a love of languages—he’s taught himself Chinese, studied some Korean, and dabbled in several others. He collects vintage books, enjoys exotic teas from China, and relaxes with both modern online games and nostalgic classics from the original Nintendo. Those who know Corey describe him as kind-hearted, unfailingly polite, and always thinking of others. His constant companion is Shadow, his elderly black Pomeranian and best friend.

Corey’s daily life is a constant balancing act. He experiences severe shortness of breath and fatigue that limit even the simplest activities. Every day includes 4–6 breathing treatments, and he has never spent a day without his nebulizer. Outings require both his nebulizer and oxygen equipment, making routine errands or social activities exhausting. Some days, Corey must choose between basic tasks like showering or doing laundry—because one activity is often all his body can manage.

Now that he’s been approved for transplant, Corey and his family face the financial reality that comes with this next chapter. They must stay in Birmingham, Alabama for at least three months following his discharge from the hospital. His mom, Tracy, will stay nearby during his month-long hospitalization to provide support. Expenses include lodging, meals, gas for travel between Tallahassee and Birmingham, post-transplant medications (up to 40 lifelong prescriptions), medical co-pays, uncovered procedures, and pet care for Shadow while Corey recovers. These costs are expected to reach around $30,000, and could rise if any complications occur.

Through successful fundraising, Corey hopes for something simple yet life-changing: the ability to breathe easily, regain stamina, and live a full, independent life. He dreams of finally being able to shower and do laundry in the same day—things most of us take for granted. Looking ahead, Corey hopes to pursue his dream of opening a small in-home bakery and, for the first time in his life, travel to experience the cultures and languages he’s loved from afar.

Please consider donating to Help Hope Live in Corey’s honor today, and share his story with your friends and family. Every contribution—big or small—brings Corey one step closer to a new set of lungs and a new chapter of life.

If you’d like to help organize a fundraiser or have questions, please contact his mom, Tracy, at [email protected]. Thank you for your kindness, generosity, and prayers of hope.