A Second Wind: Ken’s Lung Transplant Journey

Ken Wyatt, INTEGRIS Health Transplant Patient

When Ken Wyatt began struggling to walk half a block or climb a single flight of stairs, he knew something was wrong. Once an active outdoorsman and Boy Scout leader, Ken found himself gasping for air during even the simplest conversations.

His diagnosis: idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis—a progressive lung disease that scars lung tissue and makes breathing increasingly difficult.

At 79, Ken was devastated to learn that despite being otherwise healthy, his age disqualified him from a life-saving lung transplant. But Ken wasn’t ready to give up.

“I wasn’t afraid to die,” he said, “but I knew I had more life to live.”

A Search for Hope

Ken sought a second opinion. Another physician recognized that while his lungs were failing, his overall health was excellent. He was immediately referred to the INTEGRIS Health Nazih Zuhdi Transplant Institute in Oklahoma City.

There, after a comprehensive evaluation, Ken was approved and added to the lung transplant list. Just two months later, he received the call that would change his life.

The Gift of a Second Chance

Ken awoke from surgery to something he hadn’t felt in years: a full breath of air.

“To be given a second chance in life, I am forever grateful. There is nothing like waking up and being able to breathe.”

With tears in his eyes, Ken recalled writing to the family of the donor, hoping they knew how much their loved one’s gift meant.

Life After Transplant

Today, at 84 years old, Ken is thriving. He volunteers regularly, remains active in his community, and proudly mows his own lawn.

“I figure that God must have a mission for me since I’m still here,” he says. “I’ll stay as long as it takes to fulfill that purpose.”

Ken’s mission now includes advocacy—he’s committed to raising awareness about the need to reevaluate age limits for organ transplants. He also supports others by donating to the Samara Family Transplant Patient Assistance Fund, which provides critical resources for transplant patients who face financial barriers.

Since 2019, this fund has distributed over $111,000 to support patients just like Ken.

Thank You for Being Part of the Journey

Your generosity made Ken’s story possible. As a supporter of the INTEGRIS Health Foundation, you help provide second chances and life-saving care to those who need it most.

Story by Zoee Zuerker