Damita Barbee

Type of Donation:       Double Lung Recipient

Age and Location:      74, Antioch, California

Date of Donation:           August 15, 2014, UCSF

Sponsor:                      Honored by Donor Network West

DAMITA’S STORY

For many years, Damita experienced a beautiful life in an exciting financial services career, she also loved traveling, and enjoyed hosting and spending time with her family. Damita has always followed a healthy lifestyle and was shocked when breathing became more difficult and walking long stretches became almost impossible. Damita was overcome with a lot of anxiety during this time. Due to the symptoms she was experiencing, Damita was referred to the University of California (UCSF) Respiratory Program where she was diagnosed with Pulmonary Fibrosis in 2010.

Damita was listed on the Lung Transplant list as her lungs could no longer sustain her. Damita waited for the opportunity to receive a lifesaving pair of lungs for three years until she contracted a severe case of pneumonia, which took her off the list for six months. She had to retake several major tests to be re-listed.

Every year for her birthday, Damita would hope for a new pair of lungs. On August 14, 2014, just 6 days before her birthday, Damita received the call that lungs were available to save her life. Damita felt excited and scared but trusted in the care and expertise of her UCSF Transplant team. Since then, she has always referred to her transplant as a gift from God. Damita understands the significance of the gift she was given and she, along with her family and friends, always ensure that Damita is on track with her medications, appointments, and health.

Damita has been a Donate Life Ambassador with Donor Network West for nine years. As an Ambassador and recipient, she feels a responsibility to share her story to educate the community on organ and tissue donation, and to support others experiencing a diagnosis like hers. Receiving a double- lung transplant has allowed Damita to live her best life in the 11 years it has given her. Damita has traveled to many beautiful places and has spent precious time with her daughters and beloved Mother. Damita remains forever grateful to her Donor and their family for giving her a second chance of life.