Jeremy’s journey towards a double lung transplant began in  December 16, 2017.  After yet another stint in the hospital and then doing I.V. antibiotics at home for two weeks, his lung function had not improved.  At that point, his local primary care doctor said, “It’s time to have “the discussion” again. Are you still interested in getting a transplant?”

Without hesitation, Jeremy answered, “Absolutely!”

In the ensuing twenty two months (yikes!) we have overcome formidable challenges – beginning with the mind-numbing but frustration-producing complexities of insurance coverage.  Only after that long and complicated process was accomplished could Jeremy undergo the medical “qualification” evaluation, which required multiple trips between Langlois, Or., and Seattle’s University of Washington Medical Center.  All the while, he was enduring numerous uncomfortable medical tests at home as well as in Seattle and a daunting “to do” list of things to accomplish at home.  It takes a lot of hard work to keep yourself at the best level possible while you await THE CALL.

The journey has been complicated by the rural area we live in, a lack of medical facilities and doctors in our area, and the distance we need to travel to get him to things such as pulmonary rehabilitation. You might say, “But wait, I thought his lungs could not be rehabilitated and that is why he needs a transplant.”  That’s true, but he still needs to keep breathing as deep as he can and maintain his core strength and muscle tone.  These will have a great effect on how well his body can tolerate the transplant surgery and how long it will take him to recover afterward.

 

On June 6, 2019, all the traveling to Seattle and hard work at home paid off.  Jeremy was placed on the transplant waiting list! It was a red letter day for all of us, for sure! Congratulations, Jeremy! Well done!