Marissa Schwartz

Dear Family and Friends,  

This site has been created to keep everyone informed of Marissa's condition.  Marissa was 
admitted Sunday evening, February 18th, to the Lancaster General Hospital Intensive Care Unit (ICU).  She contracted the H1N1 and Influenza virus.  This aggressive virus attacked 
suddenly and her condition deteriorated rapidly, with no warning.   A week and a half later, she was transported via chopper to Penn Presbyterian in Philadelphia.  She remains at PENN in critical condition in the ICU.  


She is receiving excellent care at PENN!  We are hopeful her critical status will change soon.  The doctors have informed us that Marissa's recovery could be a very long journey.  
The recovery time could take several months.  Please continue to keep her in your prayers.

The incredible out-pour of concern and love is greatly appreciated.  Marissa has touched so many lives in so many beautiful ways.  This is obvious by the amount of people who are saying they will do anything to help!  Please know that the family is covered at the moment with meals, carpools and daily household needs.   A sign-up genius has been created  for meals and prayers.  You can access these links on this Caring Bridge site under "ways to help." 

The reality of Marissa's prognosis brings uncertainty and concerns for the immediate future of their family.   Because of the lengthy road ahead,  additional needs are imminent.  The family is facing unexpected health costs, travel expenses and loss of income.  As some of you may know, 
Marissa tutored  high school students in math and science. 


After many requests from the community and careful consideration,  we have launched a "Go Fund Me" site on behalf of the Schwartz family.  Many of you are asking for addtional ways to help.  Thank you for expressing your interest in giving.  You can now donate  on the 
Caring Bridge site  under "ways to help."  We greatly appreciate your interest in giving and generosity during this crisis. 


Alan really struggled with the idea of us creating  a "Go Fund Me" link on the Caring Bridge site.  This was something he really felt uncomfortable doing.  He is already so humbled by the amount of help he and his family have received.  A very close friend, along with others, assured him this was the right move!  Launching the site on Caring Bridge makes the most sense 
because so many visit this site looking for updated information and additional ways to give.
Alan truly understands how helpful this will be for their family and is forever grateful to
everyone.  

Again, we appreciate your ongoing support and words of hope and encouragement.   Love and prayers are the most important thing now for Marissa, Alan and the kids.  Thank you all for 
being so dedicated to prayer.  Please continue praying... This is what Marissa needs most....This is what Marissa is all about...


THE POWER OF PRAYER!!!!