01  Who we are

Great organizations begin with grassroots efforts, and the Lung Transplant Support Organization is no exception. In April 2007, a group of transplant recipients, their loved ones, and their caretakers formed a charitable non-profit to help future transplant recipients with the journey unique to lung transplant patients. 

The founding volunteers were all patients of the newly launched lung transplant program at St. Joseph’s Hospital Norton Thoracic Institute. This first group of transplant patients quickly realized they had significant experiences to share, from the emotional rollercoaster to navigating the healthcare system to budgeting for out-of-pocket expenses, the pre-transplant travel implications, and the multiple post-transplant checkups, to name just a few.

02  Our mission

LTSO formed from a desire to bring together transplant patients and share the experiences and learning of those who went before them. The mission has expanded to include supporting the lung transplant patient, the patient caregivers, and the medical professionals who care for them. LTSO informs and educates patients on resources available beyond their medical insurance coverage, including but not limited to housing, medical and financial assistance.

03  Our goals

The goals of LTSO are to provide new patients with a community of fellow transplant recipients who understand their journey and can assist by sharing and encouraging in a positive and supportive manner.

The objectives of LTSO are to partner with the transplant medical community to enhance patient wellness; educate and inform the public about lung transplant and donor awareness; help to provide patient critical care equipment when possible; and provide housing, medical, financial assistance, and resources.