National Foundation for Transplants
800-489-3863
Rachel's Appeal
Many years ago, when Rachel was in nursing school, she began experiencing health problems. By 1996, doctors discovered a heart condition and she received a pacemaker defibrillator. Then in 2004, she experienced congestive heart failure and was diagnosed with cardiomyopathy. Doctors said a heart transplant was Rachel’s only hope for a second chance at life. Her heart was so weak that she needed a left ventricular assist device (LVAD) implanted to keep her heart pumping while she waited for a transplant.
Prior to her diagnosis, Rachel was very active, working as a pediatric ICU nurse, enjoying singing, public speaking, crafts and gourmet cooking. Her deteriorating health has left her unable to work since 2004.
Despite her struggles, Rachel maintained a positive outlook. She is a member of All Nations Community Church and is blessed to have a strong group of supporters surrounding her.
Thankfully, Rachel received her lifesaving transplant in January 2009, at Emory University Hospital in Atlanta . She is grateful for the gift of life she’s been given, and looks forward to driving, working, traveling, having a family and returning to school for a master’s degree in education. But Rachel still faces a long road ahead, both physically and financially.
Rachel’s new life comes at a very high price.
A heart transplant costs approximately $650,000. And that’s only the beginning. Even with health insurance, Rachel faces significant medical expenses. For the rest of her life, she will need follow-up care and daily anti-rejection medications. Post-transplant medications alone could cost up to $5,000 per month—and they are as critical to her survival as the transplant itself. Rachel had to relocate to Atlanta to be near the transplant center, and she must remain there for a year post-transplant. She will incur substantial temporary housing expenses as she recovers.
What if your life depended on the compassion and generosity of others?
The National Foundation for Transplants (NFT) is working with volunteers and supporters to help relieve the growing burden of expenses for Rachel and her family. NFT has been assisting transplant patients with advocacy and fundraising support for more than 25 years. Your gift—of $25, $50, $100 or more—will enable NFT to provide Rachel with the financial support she desperately needs.
You can help by visiting www.transplants.org to make a secure online donation. Click on Patients We Help and search for Rachel Moore.
If you have any questions about NFT, their services or volunteering, feel free to contact the NFT staff at 800-489-3863.
Many Thanks,