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Exclusive: Double lung recipient given second chance at life

Craig Kanrick says his donor was a 14-year-old girl. The decision saved not only his life, but seven others as well.

Daniella Rodriguez

Jun 27, 2025, 10:52 PM

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Craig Kanarick was diagnosed with idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis, a rare and incurable disease that scars the lungs, after doctors discovered the condition during a routine checkup.

Within months, he fell seriously ill and was placed on the transplant list, getting a match in just 36 hours.

Kanrick says his donor was a 14-year-old girl. The decision saved not only his life, but seven others as well.

After a nine-week recovery, Kanarick set a goal to walk the entire 34-mile circumference of Manhattan, "The Great Saunter, with his physical therapist by his side.

He says he hopes his story encourages others to consider becoming organ donors.

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