Waiting To Exhale. | Life after double lung transplant and chronic illness survival

Tanya has struggled to breathe since the day she was born. From viral infections to lung disease, Tanya was diagnosed with bronchiolitis obliterans. The narrowing of Tanya's airways could not be reversed by medication. Considering the diagnosis and years of health challenges, she got on with living her life. By 2017, Tanya had just 14% lung capacity, and became the first patient to receive a bi-lateral lung transplant in a state hospital in Africa. For the first time in her life, Tanya’s lung capacity reached 80% and she lived her life with renewed appreciation. Everything changed six years after the operation when Tanya Bothma was diagnosed with chronic rejection. Tanya's story helps us understand the life-changing impact of organ transplants and the emotional toll of waiting for another. This episode emphasizes hope, community support, and the strength that emerges from life's adversities. QUOTES: 'I knew that I had to fight for my family, and I needed to fight for my little girl, and I needed to fight for my hubby. And lastly, I really needed to fight for my parents. That was my only alternative, that was my only option, that's all I could do.' 'I cannot thank my organ donor enough because this woman has allowed me to watch my daughter grow up and be with my family every day.' 'I always say my organ donor is my hero, but at the same time, the medical team is also my hero and the Lord above is my hero.' GUEST: Tanya Bothma https://newbreath.co.za/ https://www.backabuddy.co.za/campaign/spear-reit-a-new-breath Listen to Something Shifted: The Soundtrack on Spotify