A Message from Our New Executive Director

Dear Friends,

It is with great excitement and gratitude that I join the Lung Transplant Foundation as your new Executive Director.

Throughout my career, I have had the privilege of leading nonprofit organizations dedicated to improving the lives of patients and families facing serious health challenges. Along the way, I have learned that while every diagnosis and every journey is different, one thing remains constant—the extraordinary resilience, hope, and compassion found within these communities.

That is why I am so honored to become part of the Lung Transplant Foundation family.

Over the coming weeks and months, my first priority will be to listen and learn. I look forward to meeting patients, caregivers, transplant recipients, donor families, healthcare professionals, volunteers, and supporters whose experiences and dedication have built this remarkable organization. I believe the strongest organizations are those that are shaped by the voices of the people they serve.

Together, we have an incredible opportunity to build upon the Foundation’s legacy while expanding our impact. I am excited to strengthen patient education and mentorship, deepen partnerships with transplant centers and healthcare organizations, increase awareness of organ donation and lung transplantation, and grow the philanthropic support that allows our mission to thrive. Most importantly, I want every individual and family facing the transplant journey to know they have a community standing beside them.

I have always believed that hope is one of the most powerful gifts we can offer. Every successful transplant represents a second chance—not only for a patient, but for an entire family. It is a privilege to be part of an organization that helps make those moments possible through education, support, advocacy, and connection.

Thank you for welcoming me so warmly. I look forward to meeting many of you in the months ahead and working together to grow the Lung Transplant Foundation’s impact for years to come.

With gratitude,

Virginia “Ginger” Spitzer
Executive Director
Lung Transplant Foundation