#69 Breath by Breath: Kenny Kasnett’s Journey Through Lung Disease and Transplant

Listen to this episode from It Happened To Me: A Rare Disease and Medical Challenges Podcast on Spotify. Kenny Kasnett, a seasoned executive and entrepreneur whose life took an unexpected turn with a diagnosis of interstitial lung disease (ILD) joins the podcast for a powerful episode. What began as a persistent cough during a round of golf soon unraveled into a life-threatening condition that would ultimately require a lung transplant. Kenny opens up about the diagnostic journey, the emotional toll of living with ILD, and the difficult road leading up to transplant surgery. He shares a behind-the-scenes look at the complexities of preparing for and receiving a lung transplant, from waiting on the national registry to the moment he received the life-changing call. But Kenny’s story is more than medical, it’s about resilience, gratitude, and the extraordinary gift of a second chance at life. He speaks candidly about the pain, fear, and vulnerability he faced along the way, and how he leaned on the unwavering support of family, friends, and a stellar medical team. We also explore the long-term realities of transplant recovery, from managing medications and monitoring for rejection to navigating new physical limitations with hope and strength. Kenny’s insights offer a beacon of light for others navigating lung disease and chronic illness. Topics Covered: Early signs and diagnosis of interstitial lung disease (ILD) Understanding ILD and idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF) Emotional and physical impact of progressive lung failure Choosing a lung transplant center and navigating evaluations The day of the transplant: fears, preparations, and gratitude Recovery and rehab: from ICU to walking again Long-term care, medications, and monitoring for rejection How this journey reshaped Kenny’s perspective on life Advice for newly diagnosed patients and caregivers The importance of organ donation and honoring the donor Guest Bio: Kenny Kasnett is an accomplished business leader with decades of experience in finance, homebuilding, and real estate. Beyond his professional roles, Kenny is a lung transplant recipient and fierce advocate for those living with interstitial lung disease. Through his story, Kenny offers hope, encouragement, and critical insights into navigating serious illness with courage and grace. Resources & Links: Learn more about Interstitial Lung Disease (American Lung Association) National Jewish Health - Interstitial Lung Disease (ILD) Program Organ Donor Registration – Donate Life During the interview, Beth referenced a previous episode of It Happened To Me where the inspiring Zach Ship shared about his experience of getting a kidney transplant, this was Episode #44. The following episode (#45) Zach joined us again to talk about his other medical challenge, experiencing blindness before the age of 30.    Stay tuned for the next new episode of “It Happened To Me”! In the meantime, you can listen to our previous episodes on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, streaming on the website, or any other podcast player by searching, “It Happened To Me”.    “It Happened To Me” is created and hosted by Cathy Gildenhorn and Beth Glassman. DNA Today’s Kira Dineen is our executive producer and marketing lead. Amanda Andreoli is our associate producer. Ashlyn Enokian is our graphic designer.   See what else we are up to on Twitter, Instagram, Facebook, YouTube and our website, ItHappenedToMePod.com. Questions/inquiries can be sent to [email protected].