Rod - lung recipient QLD

This year marks 20 extra years of life for lung recipient Rod, who was born with cystic fibrosis.

Rod tells us his story of survival and how grateful he is to his donor and their family.

“Before my life-saving transplant, my daily routine consisted of physiotherapy and medications such as IV antibiotics to fight off chest infections. Over time, hospital admissions became more and more frequent and my lung function dropped so low I required oxygen 24/7. That’s when my doctors told me I needed to go on the transplant list.

I found the idea very daunting at first, but eventually I came to the realisation that it was my only hope.

I will never forget how amazing it felt when they took me off the ventilator following my surgery. I could finally take a breath easily, without having to struggle.

Since that day I have not looked back. I am married, have a teenage son and I have worked hard to become successful in life. I even look forward to retirement - one day.

I cherish every moment I’ve been given and will always remember it is only possible because someone made the difficult decision for their loved one to become an organ donor.

I am forever grateful to them for their precious gift of life.”

Thank you for sharing your amazing story with us Rod as we continue to honour and thank donors and their families for extra years of gifted life.

#thankyouday2022