Local Communites Reach Out To Carver Woman In The Wake of Double Lung Translplant

By Alexa Kuzmich

Local communities have turned out in support of a local woman with cystic fibrosis after she recently underwent a double lung transplant. Lindsay Briggs, 22, of Carver received a double lung transplant on February 29, 2008 at a Pennsylvania hospital after her health took a turn for the worse early this year.

Briggs, who is a senior at Stonehill College, has witnessed an amazing outpouring of caring and consideration from both her college community and the surrounding area.

Since her hospitalization, there have been many fundraisers in the area looking to assist Lindsay and her family, according to Briggs’ aunt Merci.

Starting in late January, collections at masses at Stonehill were taken in honor of Lindsay and her family. Recently, the Stonehill community has made many donations thanks to students and faculty alike who are wishing the best for Lindsay and her family.

In late February, Lindsay’s alma mater raised $11,000 at a volley ball tournament where they also sold t-shirts.

In March, two larger scale fundraisers took place, raising over $1,100. The Battle of the Bands for Briggs, hosted by Lindsay’s cousin Michelle Huckle, and a benefit hosted by Carver High School, where Lindsay’s sister is a senior.

On April 11, co-workers and friends of Lindsay’s mother, Katie, held a benefit dinner/dance in Plymouth to raise money to help support the family and allow them to stay with Lindsay while she continues her recovery.

Most recently, on April 25, Babson College organized a fundraiser to help support Lindsay and her family. After hearing her story one student, whose father is Lindsay’s physical therapist, rallied the Babson community to help. While official numbers have yet to be tallied the fundraiser, which included a BBQ and a volleyball tournament, will make a great difference to Briggs and her family.