Thank you for visiting my Personal Fundraising Page. Donating through this site is simple, fast and totally secure. It is also the most efficient way to make a contribution to our fundraising efforts. Many thanks for your support - and feel free to forward this to anyone who may want to donate towards finding a cure for this debilitating disease.
My Story:
In 2005, after several months of illness, I was diagnosed with a hereditary lung disease called Alpha-1 Antitrypsin Deficiency (AAT Deficiency or Alpha-1). Alpha 1 is a disease caused by the lack of a specific protein which protects the lungs from smoke, dust, pollens, etc. There is no cure at this time, although there is treatment to slow the progress of the disease.
My first sympton was difficulty breathing. I thought I was just really out of shape, but when I didn't get better after a while, I went to my doctor, who suggested tests for heart disease. I wondered if I was due for a by-pass! Several tests later, it was determined that my heart was fine. Next I was sent to a pulmonologist who found severe lung damage and diagnosed COPD. Blood tests later showed that I was missing the needed protein and they were able to diagnose me with Alpha-1. Immediately I began receiving weekly infusions of the protein, which I will continue to take for the rest of my life. When I received my diagnosis, my lung capacity was down to 45%. Now, 3 years later, my lung capacity is at around 35% and holding. My doctor recommends exercise and staying active to keep my lungs as healthy as possible. I also have to avoid being around anyone who has a respiratory illness (cold, flu, etc.) and if I do get sick, I'm treated with aggressive medicines.
I've been unable to work since March of 2007 and currently receive disability benefits. I've been told that eventually my lungs will deteriorate to the point where I will need a lung transplant to survive. I use oxygen when I sleep and travel, and am almost to the point where I need oxygen 24 hours a day. However, my life is not bleak! In February of 2008 I met an angel named Allison. We were married on November 22, 2008. Between us we now have eight children and two grandchildren - with another one on the way! My youngest daughter is a senior in high school and still lives with us full-time. Soon she'll be off to college and we'll be "empty nesters." Life is truly a joy and very precious.
Because Alpha-1 is a relatively rare disease, funding for research is minimal. Your donation to the Alpha-1 Foundation is urgently needed, and could help fund the research which finally finds a cure for this disease! Thanks again for taking the time to read this page.
Blessings and Peace,
Originally from St. Charles IL, I came to Des Moines to attend college at Drake University. After graduation I took a job out east where I lived a couple of years before moving back to Des Moines. I returned to Drake and earned my masters degree while also receiving their Top Graduate Student award.