At PF Warriors, we know that life with pulmonary fibrosis is a journey filled with unexpected challenges. For many, a lung transplant brings a second chance at life—but it also comes with new risks. Pete knows this firsthand. A lifelong problem-solver, pilot, and mentor, he’s spent his life teaching others. But when he was diagnosed with idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF) at 58, he faced a challenge that couldn’t simply be solved—one that would ultimately require a lung transplant to survive. And, as he later learned, the fight wasn’t over after surgery.

A Lifetime of Learning and Teaching
Growing up with asthma, Pete was no stranger to respiratory challenges. But in November 2012, when a persistent cough turned into a crushing pressure in his chest, he knew something was different. A routine doctor’s visit quickly escalated into a series of tests—X-rays and CT scans — leading to the life-changing diagnosis of IPF.
With his aviation background, Pete understood the importance of gathering information quickly. He didn’t want to wait months for a specialist. As luck would have it, an unexpected opening with a new pulmonologist gave him immediate access to the care he needed.
In April 2021, at age 66, Pete received a single lung transplant at the University of Michigan. He now dedicates his time to mentoring others navigating the transplant journey. “I’m a teacher by nature,” Pete says. “I’ve always believed that knowledge is power. The more you understand, the better you can advocate for yourself.”
The Unexpected Challenge: Cancer
For many transplant recipients, the road doesn’t end after surgery. The medications that prevent organ rejection also suppress the immune system, increasing the risk of infections and certain cancers.
Before his transplant, Pete never thought much about skin cancer. But as a fair-skinned former lifeguard, he knew to keep an eye on his skin. In August 2022, he noticed a small spot on his left ear that wasn’t healing. By October, it had grown larger. A visit to the dermatologist led to a referral to an ENT surgeon, where he learned the spot had developed into an aggressive cyst. By January, he had lost half his ear.
The cancer spread quickly. By early May, another spot appeared on the same ear, leading to six weeks of intensive radiation treatment—five days a week. The side effects were tough: hair loss, loss of taste, and the ever-present worry of recurrence. Thankfully, his most recent CT scan showed no signs of cancer, and he now undergoes scans every six months to monitor his health.
Staying Vigilant and Spreading Awareness
These days, Pete takes extra precautions. A wide-brimmed hat is his constant companion, whether it’s a cowboy hat during the day or a newsboy cap at night. Sunscreen is now a non-negotiable part of his routine. His doctors have also adjusted his immunosuppressant regimen to reduce his future risks.
For other transplant recipients, Pete stresses the importance of staying hyper-aware. “Skin cancer is the most obvious, but you have to be aware of everything,” he says. He encourages patients to embrace their growing medical team. For Pete, he added six to eight new specialists post-transplant.
Another tip? Bring a family member to appointments. “There’s so much information coming at you. Ask if you can record the conversation. The second time around, you might catch something you missed.”
As a pilot, Pete was trained to absorb information quickly—a process he calls “fire hose training.” That same skill has helped him navigate post-transplant life. His advice to others? “Learn as much as you can, as fast as you can. The more you know, the better you can advocate for yourself.”
You’re Not Alone—Stay Connected
On this World Cancer Day, Pete’s story is a powerful reminder that for pulmonary fibrosis patients and transplant recipients, the fight doesn’t end with surgery. Cancer can be an unexpected but very real risk, and awareness is key.
If you’re a transplant recipient or caring for someone who is, we encourage you to stay informed, ask questions, and lean on the PF Warriors community. Have you faced unexpected challenges post-transplant? Share your experiences with us—we’re all in this together.