Durham, North Carolina (WNCN) – Duke Hospital recently performed a life-saving surgery that has granted a young woman a newfound opportunity she feared she might not have. Taylor Stephenson, a 26-year-old, underwent her third double lung transplant, a procedure that has significantly transformed her life.
Engaging in a simple game of fetch with her beloved dog holds immense significance for Stephenson. It symbolizes vitality, optimism, and the invaluable gift of life.
Not too long ago, she was reliant on an oxygen tank, struggling to take each breath. Recalling those challenging times, she described the sensation as akin to suffocation, a deeply frightening experience that often left her gasping for air in the dead of night.
Born with cystic fibrosis, Stephenson underwent her initial double lung transplant during her teenage years. However, after a few years, her body began to reject the newly transplanted lungs. Despite the setback, she was fortunate to undergo a second transplant, which provided a temporary reprieve.
Although the second transplant initially showed promise, Stephenson was disheartened to discover last year that her body was once again rejecting the donor lungs. Faced with this grim reality at the age of 25, she found herself grappling with the fear of premature death. However, unaware that a third transplant was a viable option, she initially believed it to be an unattainable possibility.
While third lung transplants are uncommon, Duke Hospital has emerged as a pioneering institution in this field within the United States. Dr. John Reynolds, the medical director of Duke’s Lung Transplant Program, highlighted their exceptional track record, having conducted a substantial portion of the country’s total third lung transplants.
Stephenson was overwhelmed with emotion upon learning that Duke Hospital would undertake her third double lung transplant, particularly since her previous two transplants were performed at different medical facilities. Describing it as a second chance at life, she relocated temporarily from Oklahoma to Durham for the surgery and subsequent recovery period. Despite missing her home, she found solace in considering her medical team as an extended family, crediting them and her faith for providing unwavering support during her journey.
Approximately a month post-transplant, Stephenson’s progress has been described by Dr. Reynolds as remarkable. She now breathes with ease and experiences a surge in energy with each passing day.
Expressing profound gratitude towards her donor’s family, Stephenson emphasized her commitment to honoring the precious gift of life she has received. Her aspirations include embarking on challenging adventures, such as climbing mountains, but her immediate focus remains on cherished moments with her dog, Millie.
Dr. Reynolds envisions Stephenson’s story as a beacon of hope for other patients facing similar challenges. Stephenson echoes this sentiment, hoping to inspire others by showcasing that a third transplant is a viable option, signifying that life does not have to reach a premature conclusion.
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Despite her medical challenges, Stephenson persevered and completed her associate’s degree in psychology while undergoing treatment. She envisions a potential career in pharmacy, aspiring to support and comfort fellow transplant recipients and individuals battling cystic fibrosis.
“I know that I can at least give comfort,” she affirmed. “While the journey may not always be smooth, there will always be a glimmer of hope.”