From ICU to skydiving: Sam receives the gift of life
Sam Ira has been to Antarctica, visited Uluru and recently went skydiving – life-long goals the 43-year-old says seemed unachievable not so long ago.
Born with cystic fibrosis, Sam required a double lung transplant on two occasions. If that wasn’t enough, he also unexpectedly required a pulmonary artery shortly after his second transplant.
While he tried to remain positive, Sam said the wait for his second transplant became overwhelming.
“I was pretty much permanently admitted to hospital waiting for a call. I felt that time was running out. “I’ll never forget the moment I got the call and thinking of my special donor and their family. I often tear up just thinking about them.”
The transplant was a success and Sam quickly set about living his life to the fullest.
“When I woke up, I remember the feeling that I could actually breath which felt abnormal at the time. That, and seeing my family by my side, is something I will never forget.
“I’m now getting back into video editing, playing in a ten-pin bowling league and setting a milestone to attend the World Transplant Games in Perth 2023.
“I’ve also been to Antarctica and Uluru and even went skydiving with other transplant recipients… I still can’t believe what I’ve achieved in the past year.”
As he continues to accomplish great things, Sam says his donor is always on his mind.
“Words don’t do it justice, but special thanks to my donor and families for their special gift of life.
“I can’t imagine how the family of my donor must feel, but what I do know is I wouldn’t be here without them. They’re part of my life forever.”
To register as organ donor visit Donate Life.
