" I’m grateful for the doctors that’ll be scooping out these lungs and giving me some more life to work with. I’m grateful for the chance to keep being a person. "
- Claire Wineland

In this heartfelt statement, Claire Wineland expresses her profound appreciation for medical professionals who will perform a lung transplant procedure to extend her life. She acknowledges their significant role in her journey and conveys a sense of hope and gratitude for being given another chance at living.

Beyond its surface meaning, the quote encapsulates a broader theme of resilience and acceptance in the face of serious illness or injury. Claire’s words reflect not just a medical perspective but also an emotional connection to life itself. By emphasizing that she is grateful “to keep being a person,” she highlights the intrinsic value of human existence and the importance of each individual's journey, regardless of their health condition. This sentiment underscores the profound impact healthcare professionals have on patients’ lives by providing not just physical care but also emotional support and hope.

Claire Wineland was an American public speaker and disability rights advocate known for her positive outlook on life despite facing severe medical challenges from a young age. Born with congenital pulmonary airway malacia, a rare condition that affects the respiratory system, she has been open about her experiences with chronic illness and multiple surgeries. Her advocacy work includes raising awareness about organ donation and sharing messages of hope and resilience through various platforms.