COTA for Allie

Our Story

Allie (Allison Lyons) began life as a fighter, born prematurely at 33 weeks and weighing 4 pounds 12 ounces. Since birth, she has shown a strong-willed personality despite various struggles. Her most formidable battle began in 2020 when she was diagnosed with chronic pancreatitis. The years that followed have been defined by major health challenges and numerous hospitalizations, including one stay that lasted nearly a year.

Her condition has reached a critical point. Doctors have recommended an extensive surgical intervention: the removal of her pancreas, gallbladder, part of her duodenum, and possibly her spleen. This complex surgery is scheduled for August 4th. This procedure marks the beginning of her journey toward organ transplantation. Following the operation, Allie is expected to be hospitalized for over a month for her recovery. Due to the necessary time away from work, our family anticipates significant future burdens regarding living expenses and medical costs that insurance will not fully cover.

Despite her illness, Allie is currently finishing 10th grade and has shown unwavering determination to continue her education. Because the surgery will leave her immunosuppressed, we have decided to transition her to a self-paced homeschooling program for 11th and 12th grade. This change will provide the safe environment and flexibility she needs to manage her health and recovery.

Allie needs your support in this difficult time – through love, care and donations to COTA for Allie.

Thank you,

Katie Patterson

The Children’s Organ Transplant Association (COTA) helps children and young adults who need a life-saving transplant by providing fundraising assistance and family support. COTA is the nation’s only fundraising organization solely dedicated to raising life-saving dollars in honor of transplant-needy children and young adults. 100% of each contribution made to COTA in honor of our patients helps meet transplant-related expenses. COTA’s services are free to our families, and gifts to COTA are tax deductible to the fullest extent of the law.