Transformation After Double Lung Transplant in Phoenix

A representation of hope and new beginnings after a significant medical transformation.

News Summary

41-year-old Alexandra ‘Ali’ Briskey undergoes a double lung transplant after battling scleroderma for over a decade. The procedure marks a turning point in her health, allowing her to reconnect with her passion for singing and family life. With ongoing medication and support from her community, Briskey embodies resilience and hope, inspiring others with her journey post-transplant.

Phoenix, Arizona – A profound transformation has occurred in the life of 41-year-old Alexandra “Ali” Briskey following a double lung transplant at Norton Thoracic Institute, Dignity Health. After more than a decade of battling scleroderma, an autoimmune disease that led to interstitial lung disease, her health has seen an encouraging turn for the better.

Briskey has struggled with scleroderma since 2014, which initially presented symptoms of a persistent cough and nasal congestion. Over time, the condition progressed and resulted in severe inflammation and scarring in her lungs. This deterioration significantly hampered her ability to breathe, as well as her passion for singing.

During her second pregnancy, Briskey’s health declined further, making it necessary for her to rely on substantial oxygen support. After giving birth, she was quickly rushed to the Norton Thoracic Institute, where she was placed on the waiting list for a lung transplant. Remarkably, she received the double lung transplant just three days after entering the list, reflecting the urgent nature of her medical situation.

The transplant, while complex, turned out to be a life-changing procedure for Briskey. Following surgery, she faced a difficult recovery period, during which she was unable to communicate for about 48 days. However, the surgery allowed her to return to family life and rekindle her love for singing, which she has described as an integral part of her identity.

Dr. Leena Pawar, a transplant pulmonologist who managed Briskey’s case, highlighted the significant turnaround in her health as a result of the surgery, demonstrating how critical organ transplants can be for individuals facing severe health challenges.

Managing post-surgery life requires Briskey to adhere strictly to a regimen of medications to ensure her ongoing health. This commitment enables her to engage in family life actively, including singing lullabies to her children—a cherished activity that underscores the emotional importance of her recovery.

Briskey’s journey to recovery also includes outpatient rehabilitation and continuous physical therapy, aimed at restoring her overall strength and lung function. The support from her community has been profound throughout her health challenges, which her husband Paul Briskey emphasized as a vital component of their experience during this difficult time.

Music remains central to who Briskey is. She looks forward to building new memories with her family during holidays and special occasions, expressing deep gratitude for her renewed life. Additionally, she is determined to inspire others by sharing her story of resilience and determination in the face of adversity.

With each passing day, Briskey continues to embrace her life post-transplant, embodying hope and a message of perseverance. Her experience serves as a testament to the power of medical advancements and the human spirit’s ability to overcome significant obstacles.