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.
After years of living with emphysema, Robert’s lung function declined to just 23%, leaving him dependent on supplemental oxygen and struggling with everyday activities. When he turned to UPMC, a double lung transplant gave him a second chance at life. Today, he’s breathing easier, walking miles each day, and enjoying the things he loves again.
Melissa was born with cystic fibrosis, a genetic disorder that affects the lungs and other systems in the body. In 2016, she was attending appointments at a cystic fibrosis center close to home in Hershey, Pa., when they recommended that she be evaluated for a lung transplant evaluation at UPMC.
A native of West Virginia, Peter was diagnosed with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease years ago and initially treated with oxygen therapy and medication to help his breathing. When his condition grew worse, Peter's local pulmonologist referred him to UPMC, where he received a double lung transplant. He says he's now "grateful to have his life back."
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
