Debra Tucker

Nearly four years ago, Debra’s life changed completely. She had always been an energetic person who lived a full, fast-paced and satisfying life. Then, she was diagnosed with cardiomyopathy and she was no longer able to work or do the things she always loved. Her outlook stayed positive throughout this trial – she just wanted her life to return to normal. Thankfully, in mid-June 2016, Debra received a life-saving heart transplant. There were some complications, however, she is improving daily with the help of an incredible medical team.

For more than 35 years, Debra worked passionately to improve the lives of thousands of children, youth, families and communities in the Greater Pittsburgh area. Helping her family and others has always been a core part of who she is. Mother to Nikia and Daniel, and “Nana” to four grandkids, she has been the bedrock of her family. When not working to help others, many know her as a talented singer and song-writer.

Debra is excited to regain her strength and get back to her life. In order to do this, however, she needs our help. She is facing expensive medical bills that she cannot meet alone. Post-transplant medical expenses, including follow-up medications, medical appointments, lab fees, co-pays and deductibles, can be as much as $1200 a month.

To help with this financial burden, a fundraising campaign in her honor has been established with Help Hope Live, 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 to the full extent allowed by law, are held by Help Hope Live in the Mid-Atlantic Heart Transplant Fund, and are administered by Help Hope Live for transplant-related expenses only. To make a donation to this fundraising campaign, click on the Donate Now button.

On behalf of Debra and her family, thank you for the many prayers, cards, and acts of kindness. Debra is immensely grateful. In the future, she plans to pay forward her blessing by continuing to teach, motivate, inspire and help others to experience more love, peace, hope and courage to endure.

With sincere gratitude,

Lynnette Taylor-Criego, Family Friend
(412) 759-6155