The UofUHealth is celebrating an anniversary that has literally helped hundreds of people breathe easier.
This year marks 25 years since the hospital became an official lung transplant center. During that time, doctors and staff have helped more than 300 people through the procedure that until 60 years ago didn’t even exist.
People like Lala Juarez who had a chronic lung condition that made even simple tasks extremely difficult. Juarez was recommended to University of Utah Hospital by another doctor, and last year was deemed eligible for a transplant. She said the difference in her life is amazing and wants to thank everyone who’s been a part of it.
Now that Juarez made it through the first year, she said she’ll continue seeing doctors for follow-up visits to make sure her body doesn’t reject the organ. But she’s really looking forward to the rest of her life and the ability to breathe much more easily.