Rachelle Ledbetter

On May 1, 2024, I celebrate three years of a new life with my donor lungs. I can’t begin to describe the many milestones that I’ve experienced since this life giving transplant, never imagining what was possible. I was a part of my youngest daughter, Sierra’s, wedding; I flew to Idaho to witness my eldest daughter, Meaghan’s, life changing transition; Steve and I attended Dodgers spring training in Arizona; I am able to ride my e-bike into Sequoia National Park; I hike the hillsides filled with blooming wildflowers in the foothills; Steve and I now play pickleball; I’ve hiked a portion of Moro Rock (I plan on the entire 350 steps hike this season); I’ve received my first ever passport as an adult with plans of a 2025 spring adventure to Italy.

Pre transplant, none of this was possible. I was living a compromised life bound by a 50 foot line connected to an oxygen concentrator. Any time I stepped out of the comfort (prison) of my own home was cause for great anxiety, with the fear of running out of oxygen tanks before reaching my destination. No more ambulance rides in the middle of the night, epi pens bringing me back to life, my daughters hovering in the ER, wondering if this was the last time they’d see me.

A not so distant past. By the grace of God, and my unknown young male donors lungs, there is more to this story. A life to live as a servant of God, helping others as I was so lovingly helped. Giving hope to those who may not see it. Sharing my health crisis with others who are in the midst of their own. Organ and tissue donor awareness, an Ambassador for HelpHopeLive that provides fundraising help with non covered medical expenses; a 12 Step recovery program that is life changing and spiritually driven.

So why do I still fundraise? Even with my new life, post transplant patients suffer with ailments caused by the surgery,and the immune suppressant life time medications. Currently I am dealing with squamous cell carcinoma that requires Mohs surgery at UCLA. In the past year I’ve had 10-12 procedures, which is a monthly expense. A visit with my dermatologist, Dr. Menguin Hu, for a full body scan. Followed by surgery with Dr. Teresa Soriano on a separate day. This requires an overnight stay at a local hotel. Each trip to Los Angeles is at least $400-$500 out of pocket. Monthly blood draws, quarterly lung transplant clinics, gastroenterology doctor for gut health, oculoplastics for complicated Mohs, plus a $7,000 deductible. All while living on a postal pension in the Golden state of California!

As my third lungaversary approaches, please consider a contribution to my medical fund on HelpHopeLive. I will be selling tshirts as well as some swag during the month of May, commemorating this huge milestone.

I, and my family, are eternally grateful for all your support, love and prayers. Every day is a miracle and cause for celebration in living well.