There are moments in life when words feel too small to carry the weight of what’s happening—yet here I am, asking the Lord to help me find them anyway.

As of Wednesday, I’ve officially been placed in the program for a second lung transplant.

Even writing that still feels surreal. Not because it was unexpected—chronic rejection has been part of my story for four years now—but because the very idea that I would once again be considered for this kind of miracle is something I don’t take lightly. Second transplants aren’t common. They aren’t guaranteed. Yet here I stand, five years after my first transplant, with the possibility of another breath-giving gift before me. It’s humbling. It’s holy. And I’m praising God through every step of it.

What’s Taken Place

We celebrated my five-year lungaversary on May 25. It was a milestone filled with joy, reflection, and a profound sense of awe for the life I’ve been given. Five years ago, I was given lungs that allowed me to dream new dreams and live a life full of gratitude. They’ve taken me to places I never imagined I’d go, including through valleys and mountaintops alike. And they’ve held on through this long journey of rejection.

The past four years haven’t been easy. Living with chronic rejection has required constant treatment, monitoring, and making peace with the unknown. Thanks to my skilled and compassionate transplant team, we’ve been able to slow the decline and keep me stable longer than most might believe possible. I’m so grateful for that. Every day has been a gift I don’t take for granted. Still, we’ve reached the point where it’s time to take the next faithful step forward. For us, that means a second transplant.

I’ll share more soon—how we got here, what the process looks like, and what’s ahead—but for now, I just wanted to invite you into this space with me. This sacred, humbling, grace-soaked space of waiting and trusting.

I’m not afraid. I’m not bitter. I’m not broken. I’m held. I’m hopeful. And I’m still here—breathing borrowed breath, fully aware of the miracle in that, and giving God all the glory.

How you can help

As we prepare, we’re not asking for much—just prayer. And I don’t say just as if that’s a small thing. Prayer is everything. It is power, it is peace, and it is the way we keep pressing forward when life gets hard.

Would you please pray for:

• Me – for physical strength, spiritual endurance, and a peace that only He can give
• John – for continued strength as he leads, supports, and carries far more than anyone sees
• Our daughters – that they would feel God’s nearness and know His faithfulness, even in uncertainty
• My mom – who has been a constant presence of strength, love, and wisdom
• My transplant team – for discernment, precision, and stamina as they navigate the complexities of this next step
• My future donor and their family – whose “yes”, given in the midst of deep sorrow, will be a gift that can never be repaid

What’s Next

I don’t know the exact timing, but if everything goes according to plan, I should have new lungs (again) within a few months. I know the One who goes before me, and He has proven Himself faithful time and again. This isn’t the story I would have chosen, but I trust the Author. And I believe that even now, He is weaving goodness into every line.

Rest assured, I will read every comment left. If I don’t respond quickly, I’m likely engaged in one of four activities: spending time with the Lord, being with my family, attending a doctor’s appointment, or working out (of course). These activities take priority.

Thank you for being here, for praying, and for walking this out with us once more. I’ll continue to share updates as I’m able. Until then, we wait—with gratitude, with courage, and with a firm grip on hope.

With love and lungs that are still doing their best,
Lana

More Details

I will consistently update my CaringBridge page as things progress. I would be honored if you would follow our journey there.