Transplant Type - Lung

As a young child, Aaron had a recurring cough that would only stop for short periods of time. After seeing an allergist, he was referred to a pulmonary specialist. Soon after, when he was just 9 years old, Aaron was diagnosed with cystic fibrosis (CF). His older brother also suffers from CF, but he has been virtually symptom-free since middle school. Doctors have told Aaron, that a double-lung transplant is critical to his survival.

Although they try to stay positive, Aaron and his family worry constantly about his health. Lately things have been particularly stressful after changes in his Medicare coverage forced him to cut his medicine dosage in half. Aaron loves road trips, working on cars, fishing and being outdoors, but his declining health prevents him from spending much time outside the house. He is only able to walk five minutes at a time, and then he must rest for at least 10 minutes.

Aaron knows the recovery process will be difficult, but he looks forward to the lifesaving transplant that will allow him to breathe freely again and resume a normal life. He is the type of person who would go out of his way to help others, but right now, he needs your help.

A double-lung transplant costs approximately $650,000. Even with insurance, Aaron faces significant medical expenses related to his transplant. For the rest of his life, he will need follow-up care and daily anti-rejection medications. The cost of post-transplant medications can range from $2,000 to $5,000 per month--and they are as critical to his survival as the transplant itself.

Because of his declining health, Aaron is unable to work, adding to his growing financial strain.

You can help.
To make a donation to NFT in honor of Aaron, click the link below his photo. If you'd prefer to send your gift by mail, please send it to the NFT Oklahoma Lung Fund, 5350 Poplar Avenue, Suite 430, Memphis, TN 38119. Please be sure to write "in honor of Aaron Ogiela" on the memo line.

Thank you for your generosity!

Patient Health Institute: Integris Nazih Zuhdi Transplant Institute