Staying in the game with new lungs

Until 2021, David Breck was on the go. He worked two jobs plus overtime that often stretched into six or seven days a week. When not working, he earned his real estate license and spent time with his daughter, Lauren.

The two share many interests, including woodworking, and on special occasions enjoy an adventure – hiking, whitewater rafting, camping, fishing or even driving a military tank.

In spring of 2021, however, David was diagnosed with pulmonary fibrosis, a condition that grew even more serious when he experienced a severe case of COVID-19.

David had to leave his job on disability and now has only 46 percent lung capacity. A double-lung transplant is the only treatment that will help.

“I went from full throttle to sit down,” said David, who is tethered to oxygen 24-7. Just walking up his driveway is a major exertion. “Either I get the transplant or my time on earth will be cut much shorter.”

The prospect of undergoing the transplant can be overwhelming, but David is optimistic. He believes the double transplant will be successful, restoring the health he has lost to his disease. He exercises to keep himself fit for the surgery, and he also is looking ahead, seeking funds for costs not covered by his insurance plans.

While David knows lung transplants and the medications required to prevent the rejection of his donor lungs are extremely expensive, he is working to be prepared.

David, whose father just turned 94, is determined to overcome the health challenges before him and live a long life. He also wants to enjoy every bit of that life, including more outings with his daughter – a specific dream being running the Peachtree Road Race together.

“I’m not going to take a back seat. I’m not going to be on the sidelines. I want to get in the game,” he said. “We’re going to get through this.”

Will you help David undertake his life-saving journey?

Written by: Phil and Susan Gast