Fundraiser Launched for Morris County Boy Recovering From Lung Transplant

Joshua Fernandez has had a pretty incredible week, and thanks to the joint effort of so many people he’s never met, he’s breathing a sigh of relief.

Literally, a sigh of relief.

The 12-year-old Chatham resident underwent emergency lung transplant surgery last week after a matching donor was found. It was a frantic day, since Fernandez needed to be rushed to the Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia by local and state police and emergency service personnel to make it to the operating table within two hours.

Not only did Fernandez make it on time, but the surgery was a success, and he’s now progressing according to expectations.

See related:
Police Escort Critically Ill Boy to Transplant Surgery When Helicopter Can’t Fly

But the road ahead is long and difficult with rehabilitation. Aside from the mental and physical toll on the family, many non-insurance related expenses are being incurred.

Fernandez and his younger brothers, Christian and Mathew, all attend St. Patrick School, and their fellow classmates have kicked off a campaign called “Breathing New Life for Josh.”

Students at the school planted pinwheels in front of the school to celebrate Joshua Fernandez breathing freely again and are now asking for donations on behalf of the family.

A youcaring.com fundraising site has been launched, which can be found here, or by contacting Peggy Gentile at the St. Patrick Parish Office at 973-635-0625, ext. 25. The fundraiser will be administered by the staff at St. Patrick Church and all proceeds will benefit the family.

As of Thursday morning, the fundraiser had brought in $17,990 with a goal of $50,000 set.

“Take a look around Saint Patrick School this week,” the fundraising post reads. “When you see a pinwheel, breathe…breathe deep…and pray for Josh.”

Pictured: Students at St. Patrick School before planting their pinwheels. Photo Courtey St. Patrick School.