Inspiring Journey of Recovery in Phoenix

A beautiful nature scene representing resilience and the journey to recovery.

News Summary

Ali Briskey, a 41-year-old mother and singer from Phoenix, triumphed over a decade-long battle with scleroderma by undergoing a successful double lung transplant. This life-saving surgery marks a significant milestone in her fight for health. Briskey’s resilience is further highlighted as she resumes singing for her young boys, showcasing the power of hope and community support in the face of adversity. Her story underscores the importance of organ donation and the challenges of autoimmune diseases, inspiring many to overcome similar struggles.

Phoenix – A remarkable story of resilience and recovery has emerged from Phoenix as 41-year-old Ali Briskey, a mother and singer, successfully underwent a double lung transplant last fall after a decade-long battle with the autoimmune disease scleroderma. The transplant surgery, conducted at Dignity Health St. Joseph’s Norton Thoracic Institute, marked a significant turning point in her health journey.

Briskey’s condition deteriorated rapidly, prompting her evaluation for a lung transplant. She was listed as a candidate only three days before the life-saving surgery took place. Her journey began with a diagnosis of scleroderma, which progressed over the years into interstitial lung disease, severely impacting her respiratory health. By September 2024, she required 10 liters of oxygen at home to support her breathing.

The situation escalated dramatically when Briskey, who was pregnant with her second child in November 2023, experienced worsening symptoms. A hospitalization for pneumonia triggered a reevaluation of her health, ultimately leading to the decision to pursue a lung transplant.

After the transplant, Briskey faced initial challenges in communicating, as she was unable to speak. She adapted by using sign language to connect with her loved ones during her recovery. As her healing progressed, Briskey resumed singing, a passion that had been sidelined due to her illness. Now, she takes on the role of lead singer during nighttime lullabies for her two young boys, sharing her voice with both of them, a joy she previously only afforded to her eldest.

Briskey attributes her remarkable recovery to the gift of life from an anonymous donor and the dedicated medical staff at Norton Thoracic Institute. She has expressed gratitude for the outpouring of support from her family, community, and faith, all of which played crucial roles throughout her challenging journey.

Looking ahead, Briskey holds a hopeful vision for her future. She aims to regain the ability to partake in activities like hiking and swimming, which she enjoyed before her illness. The experience of losing her health made her feel as though she had been “stripped of her identity,” but she is working diligently to rebuild her strength and reclaim the activities she loves.

The journey of Ali Briskey has not only been about medical challenges but also a testament to the human spirit’s resilience in the face of adversity. This life-affirming story emphasizes the importance of organ donation and the impact it can have on individuals and families, opening opportunities for renewed life and joy. Briskey’s experience serves as an inspiration for many, and her story highlights the critical need for awareness regarding autoimmune diseases and the potential complications that can arise from them.

Briskey’s story stands out as a beacon of hope for others dealing with similar health challenges and showcases the vital importance of community and healthcare support in the journey toward recovery. As she continues to heal and embrace life with her family, Briskey’s newfound voice symbolizes resilience and the power of hope in overcoming life’s obstacles.