07/23/2025
Chris Beyer retired in 2022 after serving more than 26 years as a Maine Forest Service Ranger. He intended to continue employment in other capacities, which he did until the fall of 2023, when life had other plans for him.
“In September 2023, I was diagnosed with Idiopathic Pulmonary Fibrosis, a terminal lung disease. At that time, breathing and simple tasks I once did were becoming more and more difficult. I was placed on supplemental oxygen, and doctors advised me that my only option would be a lung transplant.”
“On May 1, 2024, I was admitted to the Emergency Department at Mass General. Deep in my heart, I knew I would not leave Boston and ever return home without new lungs. I began the transplant evaluation process and testing. Twelve days later, I was approved to be listed as a qualified candidate for a lung transplant. Within five days, one of my transplant team doctors visited me and spoke the most beautiful words I think I ever heard, ‘We think we have new lungs for you.’”
“My transplant surgery began shortly after midnight on May 22, 2024. Twelve hours later, I awoke in the ICU, and my new journey began. Three months post-surgery, I wrote a letter to my donor’s family. I was overwhelmed with joy to hear back from them almost immediately. I had the surreal experience of meeting them in person shortly after, and we continue to communicate frequently. I can’t thank my donor enough for his selfless gift he has given to me and others. I will keep his memory alive, fight my hardest, and honor him every day with every breath I take for the remainder of my life. Without that gift, I would not be here today.”
“I have been a registered organ donor since I first received my driver’s license many years ago, never expecting I would eventually become a recipient myself. Since my transplant, I, like many others, feel compelled to help others in need as well. Becoming a registered donor and encouraging others to do so also, is something I highly recommend. There is no better gift one could ever give or receive.”
Thank you, Chris, for sharing your story and being an advocate for donation in honor of your donor.
