1. Be informed. Learn everything you can. The only way you can make an informed decision on having a lung transplant and to know what to expect after is to have all the information you can. Second Wind can not provide medical advise, but we can help point you in the right direction.

2. Meet some lung transplant survivors. It’s great to have some points of view from those who have gone through a lung transplant. Doctors can give you medical advice. But personal experience can be very helpful as well.

3. Keep your family and friends close. Having a lung transplant is difficult at best, and having a good support group is crucial. Be sure to give them lots of love and appreciate their kindness. Your closest friends and family will be more important to you than ever.

4. Prepare for your lung transplant. Eat the right foods and do everything in your power to be as healthy as possible before your procedure.

5. Exercise. Do what you can before and after to stay healthy. Most often transplant recipients are given a regime of what they can and can not do. It’s important to work through this regimen. In time, it will pay off well for you.

6. Plan for after your lung transplant. As simple as it sounds, think ahead. Allow yourself time to heal. Don’t force it. Don’t plan anything too strenuous. When you heal, you’ll be able to do many things you couldn’t before your lung transplant, but be patient.

7. Keep a good attitude. It may not be easy, but it’s important to be positive. It will certainly help your outcome.