HelpHopeLive for Tammy Cologie

Tammy Cologie has a genetic condition called Alpha-1 Antitrypsin Deficiency. Because Tammy's liver does not produce enough Antitrypsin (a protein necessary to protect one's lungs), her lungs are slowly being destroyed. This is a progressive and life threatening condition. Her lungs are a target for numerous infections regardless of care or treatment. Tammy is currently on the waiting list for a double lung transplant at the Hospital at the University of Pennsylvania.

While others take their health for granted, Tammy struggles daily with shortness of breath, coughing and overall exhaustion. Maintaining her health is a daily trial that includes breathing treatments and a multitude of medications. Even with great care and persistence to maintain good health, she has been hospitalized frequently to treat lung infections. With each bout, she loses more of her ability to breathe.

Tammy has been a Pennsylvania resident for over 20 years and is presently living in Korn Krest, Hanover Township. Once very active, Tammy still enjoys thinking about her favorite activities which include playing with her grandchildren and being able to take them to the park. Although not able to do the things she used to, Tammy has made a commitment that she will dance once more and sing in church without being short of breath.

Tammy's life can begin anew after receiving new lungs, but transplantation is very costly and there are expenses before and after surgery that are not covered by insurance.

To help ease this financial burden, a fundraising campaign in Tammy's honor has been established with HelpHOPELive (formerly NTAF), a nonprofit organization that has been assisting the transplant community for nearly 30 years. All donations are tax deductible, are held by HelpHOPELive in the Mid-Atlantic Lung Transplant Fund, and are administered by HelpHOPELive for transplant-related expenses only.

As Tammy awaits a call to receive the gift of life, she looks forward to the day when she can breathe easier and return to her active life. She maintains a positive attitude with faith and hope. Please make a commitment to help change the life of a very special person living in our community.

Thank you in advance for your kindness and generosity.

The Cologie Family