Marissa Ney was born on March 3, 1992 with Hypoplastic Left Heart Syndrome, a severe condition in which the left side of the heart cannot effectively pump blood to the body. She began a series of three major surgeries at just two days old and has undergone numerous procedures throughout her life. As her condition worsened, she eventually required a transplant. At age 30, on December 1, 2022, Marissa received a life-saving heart and liver transplant at Stanford Hospital after a nearly 30-hour surgery. Complications caused kidney failure, and she has since relied on dialysis three times a week, limiting her ability to pursue her passion for teaching. She also developed infections and post-transplant proliferative disorder, a type of lymphoma (PTLD), requiring additional hematology/oncology treatment and delaying her eligibility for a kidney transplant in 2023. In December of 2024, Marissa finally married her best friend, Justin Ney! Since then, she has been studying for her teacher's exam, substitute teaching when able to, and spending time with family and friends! In February 2026, Marissa was scheduled for a live kidney donor transplant. After multiple visits and follow up, the scheduled transplant was canceled at the last moment. Soon after, she was diagnosed with Hodgkin’s lymphoma and will begin chemotherapy, delaying her transplant hopes once again. Despite ongoing setbacks, Marissa continues to show faith, strength, and resilience. Our mission is to surround Marissa with love, hope, and healing as she courageously navigates this new treatment. Through spreading awareness and raising support, we aim to lift her up every step of the way and walk beside her during this next journey. The goal of this page is to provide a common place for updates on Marissa's Journey, support Marissa and Justin and their family, and be able to lift her up in any way possible during this difficult time. Attached is the link to purchase Marissa Strong Attire to help show her support by wearing purple proudly, raise awareness, and promote hope, strength, and healing for Marissa! bonfire.com/store/unbreakable-marissa-strong/
Due to some of her medications and kidney disease, Marissa needs to follow a low potassium, low sodium diet, and must avoid grapefruit and pomegranate. Any support is greatly appreciated, whether you are able to help provide a meal, a gift card for days of treatment or after, or just prayers for Marissa and her family!