For several years, Dr. Stein’s lovely wife, Joyce, struggled with asthma-like symptoms until the Doctors at UCLA discovered the fungus and, later, macro bacteria, that were living and growing inside of her lungs. For 7 more years, they tried every type of available antibiotic and treatment to fight these invaders, but were unsuccessful. Finally, they came to the decision that her last hope could only come in the form of a miracle-the greatest gift that one human being can give to another. On June 5, 2019, Joyce received a double lung transplant!
Now, three months post-surgery, she is feeling better, and better each day! It’s still an uphill battle, and a long road, but she’s getting closer to living the normal, healthy life that she so desires. Dr. Stein continues to accompany her to some of her many medical appointments at UCLA. Therefore, please excuse his occasional absence from the office.
Many of the ordinary parts of everyday life that we tend to take for granted, such as taking a deep breath of oxygen into a healthy set of lungs, or being able to push a shopping cart around the grocery store; these are just a couple of the many firsts that Joyce is experiencing each and every day! She and Dr. Stein are looking forward to traveling in the future and have plans to go back to Dr. Stein’s hometown in Michigan during the last two weeks of October!
Joyce couldn’t have had such a successful transplant outcome without all of your prayers, love, and support! All the get-well cards you sent, your kind thoughts, and well-wishes gave her hope through the difficulties she has faced. Knowing that she has so many people cheering her on, and lifting her up has encouraged her to keep fighting!
On behalf of Joyce, Dr. Stein, and all of the family, we want to extend our deepest gratitude and thanks. We are truly blessed to have so many wonderful patients and friends.
Thank you!