Robert Peak, Transplant Recipient

Robert Peak Register in honor of Robert

Share Robert's story with others:

When I received the call it changed my life forever...

My journey began very suddenly in November 2015 with several hospitalizations and surgeries to treat an elbow wound of unknown origin. It developed into cellulitis, MRSA, and sepsis. I was treated with infusions of a very heavy-duty antibiotic, which resulted in severe respiratory failure. This left me with irreversible and progressive scarring in both lungs, with a diagnosis of interstitial lung disease and pulmonary fibrosis.

Prior to this incident I was a very active RN hospital administrator. We traveled and used our RV extensively. I spent time with my wife (caregiver), children, grandchildren and an extended network of “Framily” (friends and family).

My life prior to transplant became a series of doctor visits, being on oxygen continuously, a wheelchair, being unable to travel, work, or even tolerate climbing stairs in my own home.

I was then listed for a bilateral lung transplant and was on the organ transplant waiting list for one day shy of three months (following two dry runs, all three within 72 hours). When I received the third call it changed my life forever. Those hours resembled an emotional roller coaster. It was quite the “wild ride,” as we describe it looking back!

I will be six months post-double-lung transplant in December 2017 and my new gift of life doesn’t resemble my pre-transplant existence in the least. Following my recovery phase post-transplant, I am now able to walk several miles, climb stairs and eventually air travel. I currently have no oxygen or other equipment besides a cane. I am slated to walk a 5k in November to benefit lung diseases in honor of my donor, their family and the entire transplant team that saved me with their precious gift of life.

My wife and I recently registered with Donor Network of Arizona as volunteers and look forward to our first event in the near future. I also am committed to the Lung Foundation Transplant Mentorship program. All of this is intended to pay it forward and give back in honor of the sacrifices of my donor and family that made my new life possible.


Become a part of Robert Peak's story. Click Here.


  1. June 7th, 2018 | Russ Zane |

    Happy Anniversary to my transplant brother. I have met a lot of very inspiring people since the transplant and you are doubt the most inspiring too me. Blessings to you and Lisa.



  2. April 14th, 2018 | Jason Burruel (RT) |

    Robert and I worked at the same hospital. He is such a great coworker and leader. I'm glad to see that you're doing well. I'm post heart transplant 1.5 years now. 12/24/2016 the greatest Christmas gift ever! Robert God bless you on your continued journey in life!


  3. November 5th, 2017 | Dave |

    It is such a blessing to see you doing so well and living live. Never lose that spark and let it shine. It was a pleasure to be with you on this journey. Cheers!!! P.S. We all need to get together soon!!



    • November 5th, 2017 | Anonymous |

      Absolutely my friend wait to hear from you as always


  4. November 3rd, 2017 | Katie LaPorte |

    You and Lisa are so inspiring with your positivity and love. I am so happy for your new lease on life!


  5. November 3rd, 2017 | Katie LaPorte |

    You and Lisa are so inspiring with your positivity and love. I am so happy for your new lease on life!


  6. November 3rd, 2017 | Lisa |

    I love ❤️ you honey. Such an inspiration!!!


  7. November 3rd, 2017 | Dawn |

    You are nothing short of amazing Bob! Very inspiring. #GOTEAMBOB ?


  8. November 3rd, 2017 | Robert Peak |

    This shirt says it all, feeling blessed??❤️?



 

Leave a Reply to Dave Cancel reply

Maximum File Size 5MB

*Donor Network of Arizona may review and/or delete any posts, photos or comments deemed inappropriate.