For Molly Flick, the loss of her mother, Dawn Heilman, was more than just the passing of a loved one—it was a call to action. In her search for a meaningful way to honor her mother’s memory, Molly discovered the Foundation for Sarcoidosis Research (FSR). What began as a simple tribute donation has since evolved into a deep and personal commitment to supporting others battling this complex disease.
Dawn Heilman
Dawn’s journey with sarcoidosis began nearly 30 years ago, at a time when information was scarce, clinical trials for treatments were nonexistent, and support networks were hard to find. She was working as a high school chemistry teacher when she was diagnosed with sarcoidosis by a cardiopulmonary specialist—who, in a twist of fate, would later become her devoted husband.
As a daughter, Molly witnessed firsthand how sarcoidosis transformed her mother’s life. Reliant on oxygen and trial medications, Dawn battled persistent symptoms that never fully subsided. One of the hardest things for Dawn was losing the ability to travel—her favorite hobby and a source of joy throughout her life.
In her final years, Dawn faced a new battle—pulmonary fibrosis caused by sarcoidosis. Around Thanksgiving in 2014, she suffered cardiac arrest and was placed on a heart-lung machine. For six weeks, she waited for a lung transplant that never came. Ultimately, Dawn passed away after a long and courageous fight.
Now, Molly is channeling her mother’s memory into purpose. In honor of her mother’s memory, and in pursuit of a future where no one has to endure the same struggles, she is making a powerful impact during Sarcoidosis Awareness Month this April. Molly is offering a $25,000 match for all donations to FSR, ensuring that every contribution goes even further toward advancing research, patient support, and education.
“If there’s a way to prevent that for others… that’s really where I feel like my mom would want me focused too,” Molly shares.
Through her generosity and advocacy, Molly is ensuring that Dawn’s story fuels hope, progress, and connection within the sarcoidosis community. By supporting FSR, she is helping to pave the way for better treatments, increased awareness, and ultimately, a cure.
Click here to help support the fight against sarcoidosis and double your impact now.