Local Woman Receives Historic Double-Lung Transplant After Stage 4 Colon Cancer Diagnosis
A Second Chance at Life
Mandy Wilk, a 42-year-old mother and teacher, has been given a second chance at life after receiving a double-lung transplant at Northwestern Medicine in Chicago.
Wilk’s journey began in 2017 when she was diagnosed with stage 4 colon cancer. The disease had spread to her liver and after receiving a liver transplant from her younger brother, it came back six months later, this time spreading to her lungs.
Running Out of Options
As Wilk’s cancer continued to progress, she began to run out of treatment options. She traveled to several major health systems across the country, but every hospital told her that there was nothing more they could do.
A New Hope at Northwestern
That’s when Wilk learned about Northwestern Medicine’s Double Lung Replacement and Multidisciplinary Care program, also known as DREAM. This pioneering program is the only one in the country that offers lung transplants to cancer patients who have run out of treatment options.
The Historic Surgery
On June 3, Wilk underwent a 10-hour surgery at Northwestern Medicine, led by Dr. Ankit Bharat, chief of thoracic surgery and director of the Northwestern Medicine Canning Thoracic Institute.
“During the surgery, we were able to meticulously remove the cancer-ridden lungs without allowing any cancerous cells to spill into her bloodstream and then put the brand-new lungs in,” said Dr. Bharat.
Life After Surgery
After the surgery, Wilk has been recovering at the hospital and has shown promising signs of recovery. She has no signs of cancer in her body and has not needed further cancer treatments.
In fact, Wilk was recently given the go-ahead by her pulmonologist to start running again. She is also eager to complete the Chicago Marathon with her new pair of lungs.
A Message of Hope
Mandy Wilk’s incredible story is a beacon of hope for cancer patients everywhere. Her determination and refusal to give up in the face of adversity are a testament to the power of the human spirit.
“I don’t want people to know that they’re dying from cancer,” Wilk said. “I want people to know that they have options and that they shouldn’t give up.””
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is the Northwestern Medicine Double Lung Replacement and Multidisciplinary Care program?
A: The program, also known as DREAM, is a pioneering initiative that offers lung transplants to cancer patients who have run out of treatment options.
Q: Is Northwestern Medicine the only hospital to offer this type of program?
A: Yes, Northwestern Medicine is the only hospital in the country to offer a multidisciplinary care program that includes lung transplants for cancer patients.
Q: How does the surgery work?
A: During the surgery, the cancer-ridden lungs are removed and replaced with new lungs. The goal is to remove all cancerous cells and prevent any future growth.
Q: What is the prognosis for patients like Mandy Wilk after receiving a double-lung transplant?
A: The prognosis for patients like Mandy Wilk is promising, with many experiencing significant improvement in their quality of life. However, it is essential to continue monitoring and tracking their progress to ensure optimal outcomes.
Conclusion
Mandy Wilk’s remarkable story is a testament to the power of medical innovation and the importance of refusing to give up in the face of adversity. As more patients like Wilk come forward, we may find new hope and new solutions for those affected by stage 4 colon cancer.
