Hello to all,
It has been some time since we/I have provided an update, and in doing so today, I also have an ask.
Last winter, Laura was having some breathing issues and felt that something was not right. After numerous tests, the doctors determined that she was again in chronic rejection. Not the best news during a pandemic.
Following the diagnosis, she tried numerous procedures to slow her decline, but nothing was effective. As we entered fall, her lung function was in the high 20% range and required her to be on oxygen 24/7. Today she is confined to a wheelchair and in need of a 3rd double lung transplant.
Entering into the testing and evaluation stage for the third has been difficult. Due to the two prior rejections, doctors are concerned that a third outcome would be similar. Couple that with the actual surgery, which is very complex and difficult for the patient. (To date, there have been less than 20 third lung transplants in the US.)
We have gone through the review phase with UCLA, St. Joe's, and UCSF. All have declined Laura for a third. Tomorrow she will complete the last test for pre-evaluation for Duke. Duke is the leader in third transplants, completing 8. After tomorrow's final test, the team will send her results to Duke for review. When we clear that hurdle, we will then fly to Duke for an onside evaluation. That would then place her on the list for a third transplant.
We are fortunate to have a group of friends that provides so much support. Team Laura has enabled our family to make it through two previous transplants, and we would really like a third. So the ask, if you could continue to send your positive energy over the next few days, maybe a little extra if it could be spared, given the times, it would be greatly appreciated. We would have never made it this far without you all. We can not express the gratitude we have for all of you. We can not thank you enough.
