Twelve years ago, Fawn Kruger took a breath that changed everything. She was given a second chance, one she has embraced with courage, gratitude and an unstoppable zest for life. Today, she marks a milestone that few ever reach, proving that resilience isn’t just about survival… it’s about truly living.
Johannesburg, South Africa (05 March 2025) – Twelve years ago, Fawn Kruger received a gift that reshaped her future… a pair of donor lungs that allowed her to keep living, breathing and embracing every moment with gratitude.
Now, as she celebrates 12 years since that life-changing transplant, she joins a rare group of South Africans who have reached this incredible milestone, proving that resilience and second chances can lead to extraordinary journeys.
“Twelve years later and my lung babies are still being superstars and allowing me to experience, be and hope for so much more than I ever imagined,” Fawn shared.
But if you know Fawn, you’ll know that she’s not just about reaching milestones, she’s about using them to inspire, educate and make a difference. Fawny (as we know her) is a good friend of mine and Good Things Guy. Over the years, she has become family, and watching her journey has been nothing short of remarkable.
I first heard about Fawn through another incredible warrior in the organ donation space, Jenna Lowe. Jenna’s impact in this world was immense, and I’ll always be grateful for the serendipitous connection that led me to Fawn because of her. Then, as fate would have it, I finally met Fawn in person through an old school friend, one of my besties – her remarkable (now) husband, Travis Kruger.
At first glance, she seems like any other 37-year-old living in Johannesburg – married, running her own business, sharing her home with MANY beloved pets and spending time with friends. But what sets her apart is that twelve years ago, both of her lungs were removed and replaced with a stranger’s in a procedure that ultimately saved her life.
Fawn was born with Cystic Fibrosis (CF), a genetic disease that makes even the simplest act of breathing a struggle. CF primarily affects the lungs, filling them with thick, sticky mucus that makes it nearly impossible to breathe. Over time, the lungs deteriorate to the point where oxygen machines become a lifeline.
“It’s like having a constant bronchitis infection every day of your life – it’s exhausting and painful,” Fawn explains.
By the time she was 13, she was spending weeks in the hospital every few months, hooked up to IV antibiotics. By adulthood, she was attached to an oxygen machine 24/7. Even removing the tubing for a few minutes would leave her lips turning blue.
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Then, in March 2013, she got the call that changed everything.
A match had been found.
The eight-hour surgery was just the beginning. She spent three months in the hospital, battling complications, and another year regaining the strength she had lost over the years. But despite the challenges, she embraced her new lungs with an energy and appreciation for life that is nothing short of inspiring.
Lung transplants are complex. The odds of surviving long-term are not always in the patient’s favour. Only around 30% of lung transplant recipients make it to 10 years. And yet, here Fawn stands – 12 years later, thriving.
Speaking to Fawn this morning, I asked her what 12 years means to her. She said: “Every year is its own challenge; it comes with its own highs and lows. I am excited for the highs and always prepared, with the support of my family, friends and health workers, for the lows.”
She also added in that today was not just about celebrating her life but also a day to give thanks to her donor.
“As always, today is not only a CELEBRATION OF LIFE but also a day to take some extra time to think of my donor and their family. Without their consent to organ donation, I wouldn’t be here today.”
Fawn’s journey hasn’t stopped at survival. She co-founded TELL (Transplant Education for Living Legacies), an organisation dedicated to increasing the number of organ transplants in South Africa. Their aim is to remind South Africans to “TELL” their loved ones about their choice to be an organ donor.
“If you want to one day donate your organs, then please TELL your family of your wishes. When you are no longer here, they will make the decision whether or not your organs are donated.”
The organisation has become an important voice for organ donation in South Africa, and this is the reason many South Africans now have the “TELL” tattoo.
Today is a really big celebration at Good Things Guy… for Fawn, who has spent the last 12 years making the most of every breath, experiencing firsts she never thought possible and advocating for others who are still waiting for their second chance.
And if there’s one thing we know for sure, it’s that Fawn isn’t done making an impact yet.
We love you Fawny. Happy Lungaversary.
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