Chicago Man Survives COVID-19 and Cancer with Landmark Double-Lung Transplant

Arthur Gillespie's life-saving surgery at Northwestern Medicine marks a first for lungs damaged by two different ailments.

Arthur Gillespie's lungs were independently damaged by COVID-19 and cancer, necessitating a rare double-lung transplant.
The surgery was performed at Northwestern Medicine's Canning Thoracic Institute, known for pioneering lung procedures.
Gillespie, a 30-year law enforcement veteran, sought a second opinion after other doctors said nothing more could be done.
Post-surgery, Gillespie has significantly improved, no longer requiring daily oxygen and hoping to inspire others to prioritize their health.
Doctors highlight the increasing need for lung transplants due to COVID-19 complications combined with other respiratory issues.