Janet Perez

MY LUNG STORY

I have been diagnosed with Pulmonary Fibrosis, an interstitial lung disease in which extensive scarring and inflammation damage the lungs. This lung disease is both aggressive and terminal. The only “CURE” is a lung transplant. I am currently on the “call wait list” for a left lung transplant at Northwestern Memorial Hospital in Chicago. This lung transplant is the only way to extend my life in order to have more time with my family and friends–in particular with my four precious grandchildren. My two youngest grandchildren have never even known me without an oxygen cannula on my face and oxygen tubing trailing behind me as I walk.

Costs involved with a lung transplant are extremely high. After insurance, I will be personally responsible for any remaining expenses which include insurance deductibles and copayments, extremely expensive specialty post transplant drugs, lodging in Chicago near the hospital post transplant, and transportation costs for traveling back and forth between my hometown of Chillicothe and Chicago.

I have always tried to care for others–as a mom, a daughter, and as a teacher. When I retired from teaching, I looked forward to enjoying my retirement years by participating in and helping to care for my grandchildren. Then came the diagnosis that would rob me of my retirement dreams and prevent me from being involved in my grandkids’ activities. Going to my grandkids’ baseball games is a thing of the past due to my inability to lift and lug around heavy oxygen tanks and the oxygen deprivation upon walking even short distances. I can no longer actively interact with my two youngest grandbabies because I don’t have the physical ability or stamina to play with them, carry them and keep them safe. The time that I’ve already lost can’t be replaced, but I am so very grateful for the hope and promise that this lung transplant represents.

I realize that not all may be able to contribute financially. Please consider contributing through prayer for me and my family, and also for the donor’s family. Also would you please contribute by spreading awareness of my needs to others. It’s very humbling for me to ask for help. I have every intention to “pay it forward” once I’ve recovered. I am very much aware of the blessing I’m receiving and I will be eternally grateful to God, my donor and their family, and to all of you. I highly encourage all reading my story to consider being an organ donor. God bless you all!

Family and friends of Janet Perez are raising money for the nonprofit Help Hope Live to fund uninsured medical expenses associated with transplantation.

Janet has chosen to fundraise for Help Hope Live in part because Help Hope Live assures fiscal accountability of funds raised and tax deductibility for contributors. Contributors can be sure donations will be used to pay or reimburse medical and related expenses. To make a tax-deductible donation to this fundraising campaign, click on the Give button.

For more information, please contact Help Hope Live at 800.642.8399.

Thank you for your support!