UNOS

United Network
for Organ Sharing

OPTN

Organ Procurement and
Transplantation Network

TRANSPLANT LIVING

Information and Resources
for Transplant Patients

LIFECENTER NW

Living Donor Registry

 

Spotlight on Anette Lusher

 

Anette Lusher smiles. You can hear her smile in her voice and you can see it in her eyes. But you can't see the smile on her mouth because she wears a mask - the only visible sign of her double lung transplant in July of 2006.

"I smile because every day is a good day. I enjoy every second of my life and feel total gratitude to be here." Before her transplant, Anette was in end-stage lung disease. A transplant was her only option and is the thing that saved her life. "Even the rain is beautiful to me now," says Anette.

Following her transplant and recovery, Anette, who has degrees in art and education, decided to volunteer. Her hope was to work with transplant patients through the Social Work Department but when she heard about the Artist-in-Residence volunteer position, she decided to do both. In her dual role, Anette works with patients on all units, helping them with art projects. She also visits patients and families on transplant units who are in various stages of the transplant process. "I help them to cope," explains Anette. "Since I have 'walked the walk', I have insight and answers to their questions and let them know that there are no "dumb" questions -- no questions that are too intimate. I'11 share with them anything they want to know." She is always moved when a patient ór family member thanks her, often telling her what an inspiration she is to them and how much hope she's given them. Anette, a former principal and teacher says that her philosophy in life has always been that if she can touch one person and make a difference then she has succeeded. That and her requirement for at least one belly laugh a day. "A good laugh lifts the spirits," she says.

"Anette is a fabulous addition to the Artist-in-Residence Program," says Karen NeuhardForsythe, Art Coordinator. "Her enthusiasm and zest for life is infectiousl This combined with her love of art makes patients' stay on the transplant unit brighter." Anette has five children and four grandchildren with one on the way. "I feel that I've been given so much and it is my deepest wish and responsibility to give back to others. It's an urge that comes out of me." And she says all of this, of course, with a smile!

Printed in Dec 2006 issue of "Volunteer Voice", UWMC