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When my mom used to ask me what I wanted to be when I grew up, I told her that I wanted to be a dad. The journey to fatherhood with cystic fibrosis is full of obstacles, but I would give anything to pass on the traits I've gained from living with this disease to a child of my own.

If your cystic fibrosis care team refers you to a lung transplant center, you and your transplant team will have the opportunity to get to know each other.

Taking care of your new lungs is a big responsibility. Your transplant team will help you learn how to reduce the risk of infection and rejection and keep your lungs healthy. 

Transplant and recovery is physically and emotionally stressful. But, there are things you can do to help you cope with the stress and the changes in your life that a transplant can bring.

Life after transplant includes taking care of your new lungs -- and your cystic fibrosis.

Although my lung transplant was the end of one story, it was also the beginning of another, more difficult story.

I made it onto the transplant list after first being rejected. After 18 months of waiting, I got the call that my new lungs were waiting for me.

I did the research. I asked the questions. I thought I knew what to expect when I had a double-lung transplant. I was surprised by what I learned.

• Lung transplant can be difficult emotionally and physically. It's impossible to go through the process alone.
• People who are going through the process need many kinds of support from friends and family.

You may be waiting for a transplant for a long time. While you're waiting, there are some things you will have to do in addition to your normal routine, to ensure you remain healthy and eligible for transplant.