New Lungs for Kathy

Cystic Fibrosis is a progressive, genetic disease that causes persistent lung infections and limits the ability to breathe over time. In people with CF, a defective gene causes a thick buildup of mucus in the lungs, pancreas and other organs. In the lungs the mucus clogs the airways and traps bacteria leading to infections, extensive lung damage and eventually, respiratory failure. In the pancreas, the mucus prevents the release of digestive enzymes that allow the body to break down food and absorb vital nutrients. A little more than 30,000 people are living with CF in the United States (approximately 70,000 worldwide).

  Until recently Kathy was ineligible for a lung transplant due to the need to be cancer free for five years and having an antibiotic resistant bacteria (Burkholderia Cepacia) growing in her lungs. Kathy was living her life accordingly with this knowledge and was definitely living life to the fullest. Spending time with friends, going on vacations alone or with some of her closest friends and spending as much time as she could with her Dad before he passed away.

  Over the last year Kathy has had to slow down. Two to three hospitalizations a year used to be a bump in the road. Now, like the disease itself, it has taken it’s toll. It has become more difficult every day to get out and see friends and even complete normal day to day tasks. She is now on oxygen 24/7 and her lung capacity is about 25-28%.

Last year Kathy got the news that she was one of a small percentage of CF patients who find they no longer have the bacteria B. Cepacia growing in their lungs. Then in September she was beyond excited when she was five years cancer free and was able to start the many treks to Seattle to be evaluated for a lung transplant. Good news was received in October that she would be listed for a bilateral (double) lung transplant. The gift of life! The phone is now always on and The Call could be any day. 

Because lung transplants currently are not performed in Oregon, Kathy will need to travel to Seattle for the procedure . After the operation she will be in the hospital for two to three weeks and will then need to live in Seattle for the next three to four months. Rent for a furnished apartment at The Transplant House is comparable to the Portland/Seattle rental market. Add to that food, non-covered medical supplies, medications, travel, etc. Friends have generously volunteered to take shifts as her caregiver as she will need 24/7 care and she will not be able to drive. She may need to hire extra caregivers as well.

Thank you for considering donating to Kathy’s cause.  All of us on Kathy’s friend support team would be very grateful on her behalf. 

Support Team:
Barb Walsh, Kathleen Lewis, Laura Shipley, Cara Bergeson