Nicholas: Our first born was diagnosed with Cystic Fibrosis at 2 1/2 years old. We had heard of Cystic Fibrosis but had no idea what it was. To our knowledge no one in either of our families had CF. Nick received a double lung transplant in March of 2015 at 16 years old. It was a little rough right after the surgery with a couple lung infections but otherwise went as well as possible. The doctors said he could be a poster child for lung transplants. Nick has always been a great student and is in his 2nd year at UIndy. We’re very thankful that he’s been able to find out what it’s like to have a good set of lungs.

Dalton: Our third child was diagnosed with CF before birth by amniocentesis. He is our most outgoing and laidback kid. His CF journey has been different from his brother’s.  He’s had some complications the last couple years that Nick didn’t have. This is the reason the doctors want to list him for transplant before he is 16. As parents, we’re hopeful that his transplant goes just as well as Nick’s. Dalton is also very good in school normally. He’s struggled a little the last year with so many hospitalizations, but we’re sure he’ll bounce back after he gets through this hurdle. His health definitely takes precedence right now. 

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.