Transplant Type - Lung

We are thrilled to report that Holly received her lifesaving transplant in February 2010!

Holly, a North Dakota native, was diagnosed in 2007 with lymphangioleiomyomatosis (LAM), a rare disorder characterized by the spread and uncontrolled growth of specialized cells, after being misdiagnosed with asthma. There is no cure or effective treatment for LAM, and doctors told Holly a double-lung transplant was her only hope for a second chance at life.

In her late 30s, the progression of Holly's disease forced her to leave her job as a registered nurse. Although her life has completely changed, Holly remains optimistic about her future.

"I can't change what happened to me, but I can choose how I deal with it. I have chosen to keep a positive attitude," says Holly. That attitude is what helped her through the daily struggle of living with LAM.

The average double-lung transplant costs more than $650,000. And that's only the beginning. Even with health coverage, Holly faces significant medical expenses related to her transplant. For the rest of her life, she 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 her survival as the transplant itself.

You can help.
You can help! Your gift to the NFT Minnesota Lung Fund in Holly's honor will enable NFT to help with her transplant-related expenses. Your contribution, large or small, will make a difference in Holly's life. Please click on the link beneath her photo to make an online donation. If you prefer to mail your gift, please send it to NFT Minnesota Lung Fund, 5350 Poplar Ave., Suite 430, Memphis, TN 38119. Please be sure to write "in honor of Holly Bergo" in the memo line.

Thank you for your generosity!

Patient Health Institute: Mayo Clinic, Rochester