Jessica Thoren's Medical Fund

2020 has been difficult for all of us, and truly challenging for some. Back in May my daughter Jessica Thoren began feeling unwell, experiencing increasing shortness of breath. Her Covid-19 test was negative but her breathing continued to deteriorate. Fast forward to August when, after months of steroids, inhalers, nebulizers, and antibiotics, Jessica could no longer walk across a room. She was admitted to a CCU and put on oxygen. Another Covid-19 test came back negative, so multiple tests, x-rays, and biopsies were done. Jessica's lungs were inflamed and held a lot of fluid, and the doctors finally diagnosed "hypersensitivity pneumonitis" but couldn't pinpoint a cause. Nine days later Jessica left the hospital with over $6500 in immediate bills and ongoing prescriptions, oxygen, and doctor visits to pay. 
Jessica is a nanny, currently caring for 2 young boys. This requires a lot of energy and the ability to move quickly. Jessica was feeling a little better and 10 days after she left the hospital she went back to work for 1/2 days, even though she was so tired by midday that her "hands were shaking".  She seemed to be slowly getting better and went back to full days, but for the past few weeks her breathing has been deteriorating again. The boys' parents have been amazingly supportive but are understandably worried that she may not be able to keep up. Just when she needs it most, Jessica's job is in jeopardy. 
Adding to the crisis is Jessica's living situation, which may be contributing to her breathing problems. Her roommate smokes and the apartment was recently fitted with new carpets. Jessica has moved out, staying with her aunt and uncle for a few weeks to see if her health improves. If her living space is a part of the problem, Jessica will need to find a new, clean place to live.
Jessica needs financial help immediately. Anyone who knows her knows that she is usually a sunny, optimistic person who loves making people happy, particularly children. This ongoing illness and financial crisis are getting to her. She is feeling overwhelmed, scared of the prospect of never healing entirely, and depressed by the thought of not being able to work as a nanny. Jessica was a bit bemused by my insisting on setting up a Go Fund Me for her, but I think she's beginning to understand how much people care about her from all the messages of support that she's received. Please keep those messages coming, they are so important to her healing. Jessica is very grateful for any donation you can give to help pay for her hospitalization and continuing medical expenses.