Lung Transplant Patient Stories

Our patient stories profile those who have had lung transplants at UPMC. Although everyone’s care experience is unique, we hope that sharing these stories will help prospective patients and their families better understand these procedures and their potential impact on patients’ lives.

Here's how that care has had a positive impact in the lives of some of our patients.

Note: These patients' treatment and results may not be representative of all similar cases.

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Martina: Lung Transplant Patient Story

As a retired executive chef, Martina had been enjoying her life in Hawaii for nearly four decades before her COPD made breathing difficult. When she discovered she needed a lung transplant, Martina's research led her to UPMC.

Read Martina Hilldorfer's story

Laurie Gerow: Lung Transplant Patient Story

No matter what life throws her way, Laurie lives by two simple words – “just breathe.” Even when she was sick, this mantra kept her going. After several months and working hard to be added to the waiting list, Laurie underwent a lung transplant at UPMC in July 2023 and has never looked back.

Read Laurie Gerow's story

Alecia: Lung Transplant Patient Story

After Alecia was diagnosed with pulmonary hypertension, she was determined to improve her health and live life to the fullest. She received a lung transplant at UPMC and is looking forward to more special moments and adventures with her family.

Read Alecia's story

Natalie Wasserman Kingston: Lung Transplant Patient Story

Learn more about lung transplant patient stories at UPMC.

Natalie Wasserman Kingston was diagnosed with cystic fibrosis (CF) shortly after she was born. The disease made daily life incredibly challenging for Natalie throughout her early adulthood. After receiving a successful lung transplant, she considers her care team at UPMC her heroes.

Read Natalie Kingston's story

Paul McGuinness: Lung Transplant Patient Story

In 1988, Paul McGuinness became the second person at UPMC to receive a double lung transplant. More than 30 years later, he's enjoying life and giving hope to other lung transplant recipients.

Read Paul McGuinness's story

Tammi Green: Lung Transplant Patient Story

As a teenager, Tammi was diagnosed with pulmonary fibrosis, a disease characterized by progressive scarring of the lungs that makes breathing difficult. For her condition, she has received two lung transplants at UPMC. In fall 2023, Tammi celebrated her 30 year lung transplant anniversary.

Read Tammi Green's story