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momlungLI5WA_2025-12-24-20-48-50

Woman originally denied double lung transplant approved for surgery

Annamarie Patterson needs a double lung transplant but said the surgery was repeatedly denied because she'd been living in a shelter.

Cecilia Dowd

Jan 22, 2026, 10:20 AM

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Annamarie Patterson has scleroderma and a host of medical issues have resulted from the disease.

The mom of five is in desperate need of a double lung transplant but said she was repeatedly was denied for the surgery because she lived in a shelter.

Legacy Development Corporation, a nonprofit, stepped in to help Annamarie and raised thousands of dollars to help her find a home.

The nonprofit not only helped her find a home, but as a result of the more stable housing situation, Annamarie has now been approved for surgery. It's tentatively scheduled for early April.

News 12 learned Thursday she has been approved for surgery after the nonprofit Legacy Development Corporation raised money and helped her find housing.

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