Robert Blass

Dear Family, Friends and Community,

My Name is Jeannette LaRose, fiancée of Robert Blass. Robert has suffered from cystic fibrosis since birth and is now in need of a double lung transplant. At 39 years old, Robert deserves the chance to breathe freely and live a long and healthy life. He needs your help to make this happen.

Robert has been a hard worker since his early teens and is still employed at the same place of business and has worked his way up to a Quality Inspector and Coiler for the Aerospace Industry. Robert has also been an Exterior Volunteer Firefighter for his local town since 2003. In the past couple of years as his health declined Robert has been unable to volunteer, as it takes all his effort just to work and get through the day.

Robert’s step children are a big part of his life. Katrina (13), Kai (11), and Kiana (9) have witnessed Robert’s ups and downs throughout their young lives. They can’t wait for the day he can take them fishing or camping or even just on a family walk with our pets.

Robert has been evaluated for a double lung transplant at New York Presbyterian Hospital in New York City, as his lung function has fallen below 20%. Doctors feel he is an excellent candidate for the transplant because of his tremendous determination and will to live. Now Robert is on the United Network of Organ Sharing (UNOS) waiting list, waiting for the call for the gift of life.

Transplants are lifesaving but very expensive. Robert will be facing a lifetime of very expensive anti-rejection medications and frequent visits to New York Presbyterian. He has been told that he’d be unable to return to work for at least the first year post-transplant if ever.

To help with this financial burden, a fundraising campaign in Robert’s honor has been established with HelpHOPELive, a nonprofit organization that has been assisting the transplant community for 30 years. All donations are tax-deductible, are held by HelpHOPELive in the Northeast Lung Transplant Fund, and are administered by HelpHOPELive for transplant-related expenses only. Your contribution is greatly appreciated.

Anyone who has met Robert, would tell you what a good-hearted person he is. Please help us keep him in our lives for a long time. Thank you.

Jeannette “Netty” LaRose
860-459-2523