October Patient of the Month: Vicki Lauer

In 2004, Vicki was in an accident that caused an inhalation injury. She awoke in the ICU after being in a coma for two days, and she was diagnosed with end-stage lung disease. Her disease has worsened over the years, and doctors say a double-lung transplant is essential to her survival. While she awaits her lifesaving transplant, she depends on an oxygen tank 24 hours a day.

Her illness has caused many challenges for Vicki, emotionally, physically and personally. However, she is grateful for the lessons she has learned, and she looks forward to receiving a second chance at life. Vicki says if she is blessed with her transplant, she will spend more time paying attention to the truly important things in life and encourage others to do the same.

A double-lung transplant costs approximately $650,000. And that's only the beginning. Before the hospital will add her to the transplant waiting list, she must raise $40,000.

Although she loves her work as a clothing designer, she is currently unable to work because cutting and draping the fabrics is too physically taxing, adding to her financial strain. Because she lives more than 175 miles from the transplant center in New Orleans, she must temporarily relocate to be near the hospital during recovery, incurring significant expenses for travel, food and lodging.

To learn more or to donate to NFT to assist Vicki with her transplant-related expenses, visit her web bio of the NFT website.