Before arriving at the House, Jim Healy’s journey was filled with many challenges.

Jim’s negative reaction to medication following a knee replacement in 2019 led to him developing pulmonary fibrosis. His worsening condition brought him to Philadelphia to be evaluated for a lung transplant. During that process, the tests revealed he had colorectal cancer, requiring treatment and a period of remission. Jim received treatment for his cancer and was listed for a lung transplant in 2024, 5 years after his initial diagnosis.

In August of last year, Jim received the call he waited so long for. Unfortunately, his surgery came with severe complications, leaving him hospitalized for nearly 80 days, 65 of which he spent completely immobile.

In October, Jim and Solange left the hospital and came to stay at the House.

“It was wonderful… the House was the perfect transition from the hospital. There were so many people who had lung transplants that I could trade stories with and learn from,” he shares.

“The fact that my wife didn’t have to worry about planning meals and running to the supermarket every day was incredibly helpful for her spirits and her time, and therefore my recovery,” explains Jim. He continues, “She was so busy managing everything. It was so nice to come back from the hospital and be able to relax and then go down for dinner.”

Having access to the kitchen and meals prepared by volunteers made a huge difference during their stay.

Jim has traveled and lived all over the world – with home bases in Brazil, Mexico, the US – and says that post-transplant he is looking forward to slowing down and spending time with his wife, three children, and five grandchildren.