Kathleen Stieber

Kath Stieber

Transplant Type: Lung

Kath Stieber is fighting for her life. After struggling with breathing issues, she was placed on oxygen. Nearly three years later, she finally received a diagnosis: stage four chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). Her lung capacity is functioning at only 24%. Doctors say a double-lung transplant is critical to her survival, and she is currently going through evaluations to be listed for a transplant.

During such a difficult time, Kath finds strength in her strong faith; grateful for the love and support of her husband of 43 years, Howard, and their children and grandchildren. Kath’s illness has been tough on her loved ones. She can no longer go places with them or even play with her grandchildren because of her breathing difficulties. Her inability to breathe impacts every aspect of her life. She looks forward to receiving her transplant so she can breathe again and live a normal life without an oxygen tank. But right now, she needs your help.

The average double-lung transplant costs nearly $878,000. And that’s only the beginning. Even with health insurance, which covers a portion of the transplant costs, she faces significant expenses related to the surgery. For the rest of her life, she will need follow-up care and daily anti-rejection medications. Post-transplant medications are very expensive, and they’re as critical to her survival as the transplant itself.

You can help by making a tax-deductible donation to NFT in honor of Kath. If you'd prefer to send your gift by mail, please send it to the Michigan Transplant Fund, 3249 W. Sarazens Circle, Suite 100, Memphis, TN 38125. Please be sure to write "in honor of Kath Stieber” on the memo line.

Thank you for your generosity!

Patient Health Institute: Spectrum Health