By David Schriemer, MD
Todd Weinberg, 47-year-old farmer from Scotts, had lung transplantation March 13, 2013 at the University of Michigan. His lifelong struggle with cystic fibrosis and the accompanying breathing problems were detailed in the November 2013 issue of the South County News.
Prior to surgery, Todd struggled to breathe. He was on oxygen continuously. His lung function was 16% of normal. He could barely walk across a room. Todd reports his lung function is now 104% of normal and he hopes to improve on that. “I can breathe like a wild stallion!” he says. He still has soreness in his chest from surgery, but now his activity is limited by muscle fatigue and not shortness of breath.
Todd even looks different. Before surgery, he was 5’10” tall and weighed 132 pounds. His body used so many calories breathing he couldn’t put on weight. Now he is even taller at 5’ 11 1/2” because he no longer hunches over to breathe, and weighs 185.
Todd has to take vitamins, supplements, digestive enzymes, anti rejection medicines and antiviral medicines to stay healthy. He takes 60 pills per day. He has not had any serious infections or complications.
Todd is so grateful for his health. “It was a God thing all the way. It was perfect timing, not my timing.” Todd adds, “I still haven’t figured out why God kept me around.” Those around him are certainly glad He did.