As a retired executive chef, Martina had been enjoying her life in Hawaii for nearly four decades before her asthma and difficulty breathing became unbearable. Her pulmonologist diagnosed her with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), a progressive lung disease that causes symptoms like shortness of breath, chronic cough, wheezing, and chest tightness.
“When my doctor recommended a lung transplant, he suggested I travel to California to undergo the procedure,” says Martina. “I knew the importance of care partners in this journey and did not have family living close to California. So, I started researching transplant centers in Pennsylvania, where I’m originally from.”
Martina’s research led her to the UPMC Lung Transplant Program, one of the most recognized and experienced lung and heart-lung transplant centers in the nation.
“UPMC was the best choice,” says Martina. “So, I visited the city to research places to live and found an excellent assisted living facility that could provide the tailored care I needed.”
When her condition worsened, Martina decided it was time to move.
“I sold my house, gave everything away, and moved back to Pittsburgh,” says Martina. “I was recommended to see Dr. Shikha Gupta to continue my pulmonology care.”
Soon after moving, Martina was introduced to Chadi Hage, MD, medical director of the UPMC Lung Transplant Program. After additional testing showed that Martina was a candidate for a lung transplant, Dr. Hage encouraged Martina to make lifestyle changes that would prepare her body for the procedure.
“I began exercising and swimming every day,” says Martina. “I drank protein shakes, gained weight, went to physical therapy, and put in countless hours to prepare myself. I was dedicated to following my care team’s plan.”
After several months of Martina’s commitment to improving her health, test results showed that she was finally ready to be added to the United Network for Organ Sharing (UNOS) lung transplant waiting list to await her new lungs.
One morning in June 2025, after a “dry run” late at night for lungs that were not viable, Martina received the call that her new lungs were ready.
“I called my brothers, who were hours away, and told them that it was time,” says Martina. “As soon as I got to the hospital, I went straight into pre-op. Everybody that came in was efficient and so kind. They knew what they were doing and explained everything so clearly.”
After her procedure, Martina spent time in the intensive care unit (ICU) and began the long journey to recovery. She was transferred to UPMC Montefiore to continue her rehabilitation and became stronger each day.
“I am so grateful for the physical therapists, nurses, and staff who supported me throughout recovery,” says Martina. “They were all fantastic. They told me to make a goal and just go for it. I was tired, but I made so much progress. It felt so good to do things on my own.”
Martina remembers each member of the team who played a role in her transplant journey. She is grateful for their dedication to her recovery and success post-transplant. Martina also expresses her gratitude for the UPMC employees behind the scenes, including the talented food service staff.
“I worked as a chef for a large hotel chain and understand how difficult food service is,” says Martina. “I was so impressed by the team at UPMC. They went above and beyond and were truly fantastic.”
Martina remains dedicated to her recovery journey, continuing to work hard each day to make progress. She offers advice to anyone beginning their lung transplant journey.
“Know that you’re going to get through this, no matter what,” says Martina. “Surround yourself with positivity and build a strong community to support you throughout the entire process. I always recommend following your doctor’s plan to help get you in the best shape possible. It will help you in so many ways.”
Martina’s treatment and results may not be representative of similar cases.
