Support George’s Heart Journey: LVAD Surgery & Care
The Situation
Three weeks ago, with no prior symptoms or indication of any health challenges, George went to the hospital in Austin, TX, with shortness of breath and chest discomfort. These symptoms turned out to be Stage D CHF(congestive heart failure). Within days, his condition escalated into cardiogenic shock, requiring ICU care, extensive testing, and dialysis for his kidneys.
The cardiac team diagnosed George with non-ischemic dilated cardiomyopathy (NIDCM), the result of a congenital heart defect he has likely had since birth.
To keep his heart pumping, George needs an LVAD (Left Ventricular Assist Device). The surgery is scheduled for Monday, July 27. While this implanted device will save his life, the road ahead involves complex pre-testing, major surgery, intensive care, and long-term recovery.
Why We Need Your Help
The financial impact on George and his family is overwhelming and immediate. Your support will go directly toward:
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Medical Expenses: Surgery, ICU stay, long-term care, and ongoing treatments.
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A New Living Arrangement: George currently lives in a small studio apartment. To accommodate the in-home care and family assistance required after surgery, he will need to transition into a larger, accessible space.
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Family Travel & Relocation: Bill and Kitty (George’s parents) and George’s siblings, Katie and Charlie, dropped everything to be at his bedside in Austin. The cost of emergency travel, lodging, and living away from home is mounting quickly.
The Good News
Through it all, George has stayed remarkably positive (so much so that the nurses are competing to be on his care team!). He is receiving world-class medical attention, surrounded by extraordinary care providers, a devoted family, and a wonderful network of friends bridging Texas and the Midwest.
When life gives you lemons, you need the whole tribe to help shake the tree.
How You Can Support George
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Donate: Every contribution helps offset life-saving surgery, recovery expenses, and family travel.
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Share: Please share this page with your friends, family, and networks to expand George’s support circle.
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Prayers & Words of Encouragement: Leave a message below for George and the family—your support and positive energy mean the world to them right now.
We will use this page to post regular updates on George’s progress, upcoming meal trains, and care wish lists as his journey unfolds. Thank you so much for your love, generosity, and prayers!
Words of Support
Donate, send meals, or lend a hand to include words of support.
Anonymous 7 days ago • with donation
Mjmurrayvachon 12 days ago • on 'George is on the move' update
Wassmanndan 13 days ago • on 'George is on the move' update
Katiem2002 13 days ago • on 'George is on the move' update
Suzanne Wiwi 13 days ago • on 'George is on the move' update
Marilyn Borkgren-Okonek 13 days ago • on 'George is on the move' update