Duncan Man Feels Like a Winner After Double Lung Transplant

UPDATE: Duncan resident Ted Harris is celebrating a miraculous second chance at life after undergoing a double lung transplant in September 2024. His inspiring story highlights the urgency of organ donation and the incredible advances in medical technology that make life-saving surgeries possible.

After being called to Vancouver for final testing, Harris waited just two weeks for a match, a turnaround he describes as extraordinary. “This was very miraculous for me; otherwise, I would not be here today,” he stated, expressing deep gratitude towards his donor and their family.

Harris’s journey to the transplant began in 2015 when a routine shoulder X-ray revealed severe lung scarring. Diagnosed with a condition that required a double lung transplant, Harris was initially shocked, given his previously healthy lifestyle. “At that time, I wasn’t sure of the severity or the survival rate of the operation,” he admitted.

With 50 to 70 double lung transplants performed annually at Vancouver General Hospital (VGH), advancements in surgical techniques have transformed the landscape for patients like Harris. Under the expert care of Dr. John Yee, who has completed over 1,000 lung transplants, Harris’s operation was a resounding success. “Dr. Yee is my hero,” Harris declared, as he fondly recounted his recovery journey.

Following his transplant, Harris spent three months in the hospital to ensure his body accepted the new lungs. The mental health aspect of recovery was daunting; he faced uncertainties about his survival. “There’s always that possibility that you are not going to make it. Nothing is guaranteed in life,” he reflected.

Before his surgery, Harris was reliant on oxygen 24/7 and struggled to manage daily tasks. Now, he revels in newfound freedom, taking daily walks with his dog, Astro, whom he refers to as his best friend. “Now I take him out every day,” he shared, emphasizing the joy of reclaiming his life.

In a bid to give back, Harris became a registered organ donor and actively supports the VGH & UBC Hospital Foundation and the VGH+ Millionaire Lottery, which has raised nearly $100 million since its inception in 1996. “I buy the lottery tickets to give back but also to win because they have a lot of great donated prizes,” he explained. The lottery runs until January 9, 2025, with proceeds supporting critical hospital programs and research.

Harris recently hosted a successful golf tournament fundraiser at the Cowichan Golf Club, surpassing his goal of $10,000 by raising $14,000. The event brought together seven transplant recipients, creating an emotional atmosphere where participants shared their stories of hope and resilience. “There were a lot of emotions, both happy and sad tears,” he recalled.

As he continues to recover, Harris remains committed to raising awareness about the importance of organ donation. He recognizes the profound impact of his surgery, stating, “For the fundraiser, I got everyone to stand up to share a bit of their story, so there was a lot of emotions.”

Harris feels fortunate to have access to quality healthcare in Canada, reflecting on the staggering cost of similar surgeries in the U.S., which can reach nearly $980,000. His message is clear: life is fleeting, and compassion for those struggling is vital. “What’s important to me in both post-transplant and in life is to have compassion for people who are struggling. Don’t turn a blind eye, and just enjoy life because it’s short.”

Stay tuned for more updates as Harris plans to share his journey in an upcoming interview with Global next month, continuing to inspire those around him.