The potential donors' lungs must be the right size and volume. The donors should be at least as tall as the recipient (Billy is 5' 7") and be a blood match type to the recipient (Billy is type AB blood). Ideally, donors should not be overweight and should be nonsmokers.

In a procedure that may take as little as two hours, the right lower lobe of one donor's lungs and the left lower lobe of the other donor's lungs will be given to the recipient after the diseased lungs are removed. Donating one of five lobes will temporarily decrease donor lung function by 15 percent. Lung function usually is completely restored. Donors can also expect a hospital stay of seven to 10 days and a recovery period of three to six weeks.

This is a decision that has to be made in the context of your own life and in consult with your family and loved ones. If you have questions about the "Living Donor Transplant" or you are considering this selfless contribution, please contact:

Organ Donation

Please consider becoming an organ donor, regardless of whether you can help in our specific need. You may save one life or more. For more information on how to become a donor visit: www.unos.org and www.donatelife.net.