Vincent Chiarella

Family and friends of Vincent Chiarella are raising money for the nonprofit Help Hope Live to fund uninsured medical expenses associated with a transplant. Vincent has chosen to fundraise with Help Hope Live in part because donations are tax deductible for contributors and will only be used to cover medical and related expenses.

Our father, Vince, has been fighting the toughest battle of his life. Vince was admitted to Christ Hospital on March 21st for a routine procedure, an ablation for his AIFIB. However, immediately after the procedure, his health unexpectedly declined rapidly. After three weeks of uncertainty, the doctors at Christ made the tough but necessary decision to send him to IU Methodist Hospital for a double lung transplant—he has since been diagnosed with Pulmonary Fibrosis. He was airlifted to Indianapolis on April 20th and placed on a lifesaving ECMO machine while awaiting transplant.  

At IU, Vince underwent several rigorous assessments to determine his eligibility for a transplant. He persevered every step of the way despite barely being able to move for nearly a month. Vince was approved for a lung transplant on April 24th. On April 26th and after a whirlwind of a month, we received notice that Vince would receive lungs. My family and I cannot understate our gratitude for this incredible gift. Our hearts are with the donor and their family.  

Vince has dedicated his life not only to his own children but to the 100’s of students he impacted in his 18-year career as a Cincinnati Public Schools teacher. Before his health rapidly declined, Vince lived an incredibly active lifestyle, playing tennis, going on overnight camping trips, and taking long walks with his dog. We are hopeful that post-transplant, he can return to the activities he loves and enjoy his newfound retirement with my mom.  

To say the least, this has been a terrifying experience for my mother, sister, and me. We are beyond grateful to our extended family and friends who have stepped up to help in this crisis. From helping finalize the process of selling their house, moving to their new apartment in downtown Cincinnati, and (at doctors’ recommendation) rehoming their beloved pets.  

Even with all our loved ones’ support, this process is a massive financial strain on our family. IU Hospital has connected us with the nonprofit organization Help Hope Live to assist with fundraising on his behalf. We are asking for donations to assist with our temporary relocation to Indianapolis for 2-3 months while my dad rehabs and readjusts to a life with a lung transplant. These donations will also cover Vince’s numerous medications, physical therapies, and hospital bills.

This is by far the greatest challenge our family has ever faced, and we appreciate any support that can help us through this dark time.