Double-Lung Transplant Survivor to Participate With Family in Chicagoland Walk

Chicago area resident Barbara Creed received lifesaving lungs at the height of the COVID-19 pandemic in May 2020. This year, she will participate with her daughter and granddaughter in the American Lung Association in Greater Chicago’s LUNG FORCE Walk, presented by Northwestern Medicine, at Cantigny Park on October 16, 2022. 

“I was diagnosed with scleroderma 40 years ago. I knew that it could eventually affect my organs, specifically my lungs and ultimately it became hard to breathe,” said Creed. “After a bronchoscopy, I was placed on oxygen. My condition deteriorated until I needed to apply for a double-lung transplant. Fortunately, I received my new lungs in May 2020 at Northwestern Medicine. I am lucky to be alive, and I praise my donor, Alicia, and her family for following her wishes and giving me breath and life.”

Creed is passionate about raising awareness for lung disease and research funding to help find a cure.

“Having received a double-lung transplant, spreading the word about lung health is important to me,” said Creed. “Ending lung disease is a goal we can all get behind.”

In 2021, Creed participated in her first LUNG FORCE Walk with her daughter and her baby granddaughter rode in a stroller. She will be doing the family’s three-generation walk again this year. Creed will join hundreds of other walkers from across the greater Chicago area who will also raise awareness and funding to help eliminate lung disease through lifesaving research, local programs and advocacy. Participants walk as individuals or with teams. Creed is eager to take part in this year’s event.

“I am looking forward to another convivial day with wonderful people all coming together for this great cause,” Creed concluded.

The Lung Association is also offering a Walk Your Way virtual option for those who can’t attend the event.

For more information, and to register, visit LUNGFORCEWalk.org/Chicago.