From 24-hour oxygen to lung transplant in Abu Dhabi: my first month
Hello everyone,
I live in Istanbul and I’m 52. I was diagnosed with Scl-70 positive systemic sclerosis and interstitial lung disease. The illness started with lung involvement about 12 years ago and progressed that way.
I went through most of the immunosuppressive and disease-modifying treatments commonly used for this condition: Myfortic, tacrolimus, Ofev, corticosteroids, rituximab, IVIG, azathioprine, and others. The first six years went relatively well. The next six years, which overlapped with the pandemic, were different. Breathing problems increased, I got sick three or four times every winter, and I started using a portable oxygen device. By 2025–2026 I needed oxygen support 24 hours a day.
In April 2026 the rheumatology team at Istanbul Cerrahpaşa re-evaluated me with a full work-up. Medication had kept the disease stable, but it was no longer improving. A medical board discussed further options. Among them, I decided to look into lung transplant. I had previously kept that option at a distance, because it is not often discussed as a solution for scleroderma.
I researched online, watched videos, spoke with people who had been transplanted, and contacted centers in Turkey and abroad. My main problem was time. My lung disease had advanced, and I had been told I needed a transplant within two to three months. Organ donation rates in Turkey are relatively low, and awareness of lung transplant is limited. The teams and centers are strong, but the donor shortage means long waiting lists, and a longer-than-average wait was likely.
After some quick research I applied to Cleveland Clinic Abu Dhabi. Online consultations followed, my reports were reviewed, and the process moved quickly. I arrived on June 24 and was listed within about 20 days. An organ was found on September 4, and the transplant was performed.
After 15 days in hospital we moved into a local residence. I’m now nearing the end of my first month. There have been a few minor issues, but overall things are going well—my vital signs, walking speed, and lung capacity are improving day by day. I still have a lot of work ahead, but every bit of progress keeps me motivated and seems to help recovery.
I wanted to share this as a story of a real beginning, and to mention Cleveland Clinic Abu Dhabi as a serious option: experienced doctors, strong service, and a state-supported transplant program. For me, the light came from the East. I hope everyone waiting for an organ gets a second chance as soon as possible.