Local Double Lung Transplant Recipient will Fight For Air This Sunday as He Participates in the Detroit Climb

DETROIT MI (03/03/2011)(readMedia)-- The stairwells of the Renaissance Center will be full of energetic climbers on Sunday, March 6, 2011 as participants compete in the American Lung Association's 5th annual Fight For Air Climb Detroit.

But the name of the event, Fight For Air, has a whole new meaning to David Cooney of Brighton. David is the recipient of a double lung transplant, so he knows a thing or two about fighting for air.

Almost three years ago to the day of this year's Fight For Air Climb, David Cooney was diagnosed with interstitial pulmonary fibrosis, a disease that claimed the life of David's twin brother. Pulmonary Fibrosis is marked by scarring of the tissue inside and between the air sacs in the lungs.

David said "It was only three years later (after losing his brother) that I too was diagnosed with the same disease. The news was devastating, as I had previously been tested for this, with negative results. I had never smoked, or done drugs, and had led an active, athletic lifestyle."

The type of Pulmonary Fibrosis David was diagnosed with has no known cause. There is no cure. Many people with the disease live only about three to five years after diagnosis.

Then just over one year after his diagnosis, test results showed acceleration of the disease in David. He was required to use an oxygen tank and was forced to go on medical disability from his job. He was put on the transplant list and just three weeks later received the call that he was to receive at least one new lung.

David received not one, but two healthy lungs and was out of the hospital just thirteen days later. "I have been walking 3-5 miles several times a week, and attend rehab, as I continue my recovery." David said.

All that walking has been great training for the climb. When David reaches the top of Michigan's tallest building he will be joined by his climb team that includes his wife, daughters, friends and family.

With every stair he takes Sunday, David will be reminded of his life saving transplants.

"I will never take this gift for granted." David said. "For instance, the other day early in the morning, it was very cold outside. It was a sunny day with blue sky. When I blew my breath out, I saw the steam in the air. I said out loud, "I can see my breath!" Then I choked up and repeated, "I can see my breath!" Thank you, God."

All proceeds from Fight For Air Climb Detroit will go towards lung health research, education and advocacy in Michigan.

The 2010 Fight For Air Climb Detroit takes place this Sunday, March 6, 2011 at the Detroit Renaissance Center. For more information, please visit www.ClimbDetroit.org or call 1-248-784-2000.

Editors:

For interview opportunities, please contact Jessie Jimenez-Schlicht at (248) 784-2018 or jjimenez@midlandlung.org.