It’s been just over a month since Jen got “the call”.  Seems like a good time to reflect.  First and foremost, we are so very thankful to Jen’s donor hero.  According to Donate Life Indiana, one donor can save up to eight lives through organ donation and enhance the lives of more than 75 people through tissue donation.  Organ donation is an incredible gift, one that will allow Jen to live a longer, healthier life. 

Incredibly, Jen is one of only about 24 people in the United States to have a third double-lung transplant.  We are grateful to the skilled medical staff at Duke University Hospital for making this very complex surgery a possibility.  This transplant gives Jen an amazing third chance to re-create her life.  A rare opportunity indeed.  Although Jen’s progress in this first month has been in fits and starts, and a little slower than she would like, she IS making progress.  Her determination and perseverance inspire.

Because her transplant journey has been slower than anticipated, Jen has been 600 miles away from home for almost six months.  This is why Jen’s partnership with COTA is so important.  Transplant-related expenses can be significant and most insurance plans may only cover 80% of the ‘normal and customary’ expenses incurred.  The fundraising proceeds that benefit COTA in honor of Jen Warrior assist with transplant-related expenses for a lifetime. 

The COTA for Jen Warrior campaign’s fundraising goal is $65,000 (in tribute to the “65 Roses story” that has come to represent the cystic fibrosis community).  As of February 19^th, the COTA for Jen Warrior campaign has raised $46,400.  Thank you, donors!  If the campaign reaches $50,000 before March 14^th, the campaign earns a $5,000 Challenge Grant from COTA.  We’re so close—just $3,600 away—please help us reach this important fundraising milestone by supporting COTA in Jen’s honor.  As always, thank you for your continued support of Jen and thank you for your support of COTA.  Onward!