Queens woman at center of #OomphForKaty viral campaign getting double lung transplant
NEW YORK CITY -- A woman from Queens who was at the center of the viral #OomphForKaty campaign as she awaited a double lung transplant got the best news imaginable Thursday, as a donor was found.
Katy Starck-Monte went into surgery around 3 p.m. at Columbia-Presbyterian Hospital to receive her new lungs. The procedure lasts 10 to 12 hours, so her condition won't be immediately known.
Her best friend confirmed the development, saying Katy was in good spirits and thrilled to finally move on to this.
Earlier this year, #OomphForKaty made waves across social media, with everyone from celebrities to average folks doing there part to offer a pick me up. And seeing pictures and videos of people using the hashtag served as daily motivation for Starck-Monte, who was just trying to make the most of a bad situation.
"I feel like I've been dealt a really crappy hand," she told Eyewitness News reporter Kemberly Richardson. "I'm kind of doing the best I can with what I've got."
Now 30, Katy are her husband Joe, a New York City firefighter, have spend most of their time in the hospital. And then came the growing campaign, #OomphForKaty, that keeps her fighting.
So many strangers prayed for Katy and sent cards that her friends turned to social media, and then, even more well wishes began pouring in. Celebrities and people all over the world chimed in, rooting for a girl from Queens.
We will keep you updated on Katy's condition.
Three years ago, Katy made a video that she hopes will spread the word about the illness and the lives it has claimed.
For information on how to become a registered organ donor, visit: http://www.LongLiveNY.org
You can follow Katy's journey at Facebook.com/OomphForKaty and @OomphForKaty on Twitter
