In this deeply inspiring episode of Haverin About: Breathing Forward, host Stuart reconnects with Dean Mericka, a long-time colleague and fellow lung transplant survivor, to uncover one of the most extraordinary medical and personal journeys imaginable — surviving a rare double transplant: lungs and liver. A further twist - Dean's twin brother also required the same procedures within a year.

Dean’s story begins with a routine hip surgery that unexpectedly uncovered interstitial lung disease (ILD), which later led to the discovery of short telomere syndrome — a rare genetic condition shared with his identical twin brother. Within a few years, both brothers would face life-threatening organ failure and receive transplants at leading U.S. medical centers.

In this powerful and thoughtful conversation, Dean shares:

🫁 The shock of diagnosis and rapid decline in lung function

🏥 The grueling pre-hab and evaluation process at Duke University Hospital

❤️ The challenges and miracles of receiving both a liver and lung transplant — at age 65

💊 Living with lifelong medications, chemo, and complications like PTLD

👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 The vital role of his wife, Sandy, and family as his “care team”

🌄 How gratitude, kindness, and perspective have reshaped his life after transplant

Dean’s mantra: “You give up one big problem for a bunch of small ones — and it’s worth every one.”

Whether you’re a patient, a family caregiver, a medical professional, or just someone seeking hope in the face of adversity, this episode reminds us all to be grateful for science, family, and second chances.