A Greek Woman’s Journey to Freedom Through Lung Transplant

Demetra’s life changed forever at the age of 18 when she was diagnosed with cystic fibrosis. After years of waiting, a compatible donor was finally found in 2022. Speaking on Mega TV’s evening news bulletin, Demetra Dilii from Ioannina expressed her immense gratitude for the life-saving transplant. ‘I was extremely happy and grateful for the donation I had waited so long for and to the family who selflessly gave it without hesitation,’ she said. From childhood, Demetra battled cystic fibrosis, leaving her bedridden by the age of 18. She entered the transplant waiting list in 2018 and received the call about a match on November 23, 2022. The donor was a young woman from Patras. Following the successful surgery at Onasis Hospital, Demetra took her first breath without oxygen assistance. This liberation transformed her daily life, offering her a second chance. Reflecting on the difficult times, she missed the simple act of hugging loved ones due to health risks. Now, thanks to her donor, everything has changed. At 30 years old, Demetra is preparing to graduate with a degree in economics and encourages everyone to become organ donors, giving thousands of patients a second chance at life.