GRAND RAPIDS, Mich — Spectrum Health surgeons performed the first lung transplant in West Michigan on Monday, February 4, at the Spectrum Health Fred and Lena Meijer Heart Center.
Joseph Steponski, 59, of Wyoming, received a single, right-lung transplant. A team headed by cardiothoracic surgeon Asghar Khaghani, MD, performed the transplant. He was assisted by cardiothoracic surgeon Robert Hooker, MD.
“This is a milestone for us and for West Michigan,” said Matt Van Vranken, executive vice president, Spectrum Health Delivery System. “This means another group of West Michigan patients can receive this highly specialized care in their community, reducing travel, costs and stress to them and their families.”
Spectrum Health has one of three adult heart and lung transplant programs in Michigan and received state approval in February 2010.
Because of the high medical costs associated with the lung transplant, a medical fund has been set up.
Anyone wishing to donate can do so at any Fifth Third Branch under the name of Joe Steponski.
