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May 21, 2023
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Answer Summary

Members shared detailed experiences navigating the lung transplant evaluation process, describing extensive testing including bloodwork,... Read more

Members shared detailed experiences navigating the lung transplant evaluation process, describing extensive testing including bloodwork, imaging, psychological evaluations, and assessments of support systems, with the journey from initial consult to list placement taking anywhere from six months to over a year. Several members emphasized practical realities such as needing a dedicated caregiver during hospitalization, managing costs with Medicare covering about 80% plus lifelong medications, and ensuring reliable transportation to the transplant center when a match becomes available. A recurring theme was the tension between hope and hesitation, with members describing transplant as a marathon that demands both physical readiness and emotional courage, ultimately offering the possibility of a completely new life for those whose current existence has been reduced to constant oxygen, frequent breathing treatments, and profound exhaustion.

A myPHteam Member

Teresa, my pulmonologist just recently mentioned going through the initial work up for a transplant, myself. From what she told me, there’s a ton of blood work to be done, lung function tests, CT scan, 6MWT, a psych workup, a PAP exam for women, dental exam, questions such as do you have a good support network to drive you there, drive you home, help out after surgery, etc. They will put you on an exercise regimen so that you’re strong enough to live through it all. And some of all that may have to be re-done if you’re on the registry for quite awhile. They want you healthy enough to make it through, but before you can’t exercise anymore. Whew... At your consult, ask questions. Everything you want to know, write it down between now and then. See if someone can go with you who can listen for you. It’s stressful and things get missed. God bless you. I wish you all the best.

May 21, 2023
A myPHteam Member

Hi, Teresa. I am in the same spot you are in. I always thought I could not have a lung transplant because of my heart issues. I go to a very good pulmonologist and than also to the Lung Care and Transplant Center to see a specialist there. According to their rules, I qualify for a heart/lung transplant since I cannot tolerate any medications to help with my PAH. So at my appointment at the clinic in June, we will be discussing my interest level. I had thought I was too old, but my pulmonologist explained every clinic has different rules and requirements. Apparently my case was reviewed by the committee that make final decisions and I am preliminarily a fit. I think it would be worth your at least discussing this with you doctors and others. I have met two people so far that have had lung transplants. They claim it was very challenging but are now blessed with a completely new life.

May 22, 2023
A myPHteam Member

Prayers!

June 13, 2023
A myPHteam Member

@A myPHteam Member just take things one day at a time. Like @A myPHteam Member said, the process is long.

May 22, 2023
A myPHteam Member

I am alittle concerned about cost I think Medicare will pay80% but then taking those meds til I die and I dont really have a large support team so we will see what they. say my brother will be with me but he is still working. gettung there if I get on the list and a set bnecomes available not sure if I can get there

May 21, 2023

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