Frank Zizlasky
Frank Zizlavsky underwent lung transplantation surgery in 2007 for a debilitating lung disease called Idiopathic Pulmonary Fibrosis. Several surgeries and procedures had left Frank debilitated. Once a previously healthy man, Frank was then so weak that he needed assistance to sit up in bed. Frank was admitted to University Specialty Hospital for an intense regimen of Physical Therapy focused on improving his work of breathing. In addition, Frank was able to receive a new experimental drug while at University Specialty Hospital that helped prevent rejection of his new transplanted lung.
“The whole staff knows who you are as a patient, and that is reallly important. I was challenged, but not over-challenged with the exercise. Everyday was not always perfect, but the positive feedback and reinforcement received from the staff gave me confidence and provided the right motivation,” said Zislasky.
After weeks at the specialized inpatient Comprehensive Pulmonary Rehabilitation Unit, receiving intense physical and respiratory therapy, as well as his special anti rejection medication, Frank left walking on his own and feeling like a new man.