A way to ease the burden

You may or may not be aware that my mom Teri (Mary Gray) has been listed on the California Pacific Medical Center Transplant list since August of 1999. She has not improved since then and this transplant is her only chance for survival.  In the time it took me to compose this letter 12 people have died waiting for their transplant. I vow not to let my Mom be one of them. I have included in this website information on ways to help my Mom and her family for those that are interested. Please share this information with any and all who may be interested in helping too.

While words alone cannot express how difficult the past couple of years have been. I would like to take a moment to explain:

What if I do not ask for help? What if I stop trying? What if I stop caring? The answer to those questions is this: A beautiful strong woman lies on the verge of death. Teri has many gifts to give the world still. She has taught me the value of faith and hope. Teri has shown me that any obstacle or vice can be overcome! Teri has a heart bursting with love. Teri is a woman whose strength, will and determination have inspired me to be a better person, and to make this world a better place.

Here are the facts:

Teri is now making numerous trips to San Francisco for testing and pre-transplant treatment. When finally called for the transplant operation, Teri’s husband, Gary Gray will have to relocate to San Francisco to care for Teri 24 hours a day (leave without pay). Leaving the Gray’s with no source of income until her recovery is complete. Other expenses are travel and meals, postoperative care (around $735 per month), anti-rejection drugs ($15,000 for 9 months) all of which will be needed for the rest of Teri’s life.

The projected costs of Teri’s, medical expenses range from $250,000 to $300,000 for the first year. Projected cost for five years is expected to be $493,000.

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While most patients find that insurance covers many of the medical costs related to transplant (physician charges, hospitalizations, tests, etc.), there are often "hidden expenses" not covered by insurance that can quickly drain financial resources. These expenses include insurance premiums, deductibles and co-pays; prescription drug co-pays; transportation; parking; temporary housing; phone calls; meals; child care and lost wages. These expenses are incurred at the time of transplant, and in the months following when frequent returns to the clinic are needed for close follow-up care.

Most people have come to transplant after years of chronic illness, spending any and all extra family income on medical necessities. Others have become suddenly ill, without the time to prepare and budget for the extra costs related to transplant. Whatever the case, people may feel intimidated by the extra expenses they are now facing. Fund raising may be a way to help ease those fears.

"I Couldn’t Do That"
Perhaps you are thinking that fund raising is not for you; that people might think you are looking for a handout. Try looking at it this way: Very few people, rich or poor, can afford transplant and its related expenses. If not for fund raising, many people would not be able to afford the services necessary to proceed with transplant and aftercare. That is not necessary. Community members may realize your situation and want to do something to help. Friends and family have wanted to help as well, but have been at a loss as to how they could. Making a donation or volunteering at a fund-raising event is one way they can. It empowers them to feel as if they are making an investment in you.

Please consider organ donation. Fill out that pink organ donor card on the back of your driver's license and tell your family your wishes. Teri has already waited years and we expect she may have to wait a few more before a donor is found. Despite all the stress and strain of waiting, our family is optimistic and doing the best we can under these circumstances.

Teri would love a second chance in life and needs your help. Thank you for your generosity. Any amount will help.

I hope this information has been helpful.

Above all, Teri needs your thoughts and prayers. She needs a source of strength to those during this challenging time, and in turn has received strength from the love of her family and friends as well as her faith in a loving God. Please also consider becoming an organ donor; it's as simple as filling out a card and telling your family about your decision.

Words cannot adequately express our gratitude for your help.
Thank you from Teri and all of us!