Bob Brennan Lung Transplant

I was born with Cystic Fibrosis, a chronic lung condition that slowly strips the lungs ability to take oxygen out of the air.  I have struggled with it my entire life.

This disease is usually fatal by the late 20s, but by adhering to a strong exercise regimen [lifting weights and doing cardio] as well as working with doctors to follow an effective medical guildlines, I have been able to put off the worst of the ravages of the disease.  

Until now.

In July of this year, I was diagnosed as having End Stage Lung Disease.  My lungs are no longer able to take in enough oxygen to keep me alive. 

The only treatment left to me is a very serious one - a double lung transplant.  This is a very expensive operation; it will cost $1.2 million.  I do have health insurance and it will cover most of the costs but not all. 

I have to be able to cover the costs of relocating to Durham and supporting myself and a full time care-giver, especially after surgery when I will not be able to take care of myself for several weeks.  

The hospital will not place me on the transplant list until I can demonstrate that I have sufficient funds to take care of myself and my caregiver for the post-operation phase which can last up to and beyond one year.  

With that in mind, I have a fund raising goal of $40,000.  With this, I can be placed on the transplant list and be in line for the transplant when a set of lungs becomes available.  

The severity of my situation: my respiratory performance is at 14%.  I am on oxygen 24/7 - has both good and bad consequences.  

Because my lungs are so poor, I will move to the top of the waiting list once I get listed.  

The downside is that if I get another infection, I may become too ill to survive the operation and the window of opportunity will close forever.  

So, please donate if you can.  If not, please pass the word to your friends, co-workers, family and others that you think might be willing to help.  

I look forward to returning to my job as a college history professor once the operation is a success.  I love my job and Cape Fear Community College is holding my position for me so I can return when I'm healthy again.  

Thank you for reading this!

bob brennan