The Second Wind Peer Support Program for lung transplant patients and their caregivers is a service of the Second Wind Lung Transplant Association, Inc.  The Peer Support Program is based on the concept of looking to one’s peers to learn from their experiences.  In this setting, the word “Peer” refers to one who is a guide or teacher.  Peers are individuals we trust to instill the confidence and encouragement required to move forward.  The Peer Support program helps patients and caregivers to overcome the sense of being alone.  The knowledge that others have survived the experience and are available to discuss and offer guidance and strategies is both helpful and reassuring.

The Second Wind Peer Support Program will be facilitated through the Second Wind toll free help line (888-855-9463).  It will be promoted through AirWays, the Message Board, the Mailing List and the Second Wind website.

The Second Wind Peer Support Program is successful when:

1.         The peer provides support and education for a patient or a caregiver.

2.         The peer conveys the importance of communication with the transplant team.

3.         It augments patient care.

1.         A Peer provides support through telephone calls, visits, mail, or e-mail.

2.         A Peer provides education from a peer perspective.  This one-on-one communication with another transplant patient offers an individualized, highly personal account of the transplant process.  Rooted in their own experience, the Peer answers questions related to lung transplantation.

3.         A Peer provides support and encouragement to communicate with the transplant team and comply with medical treatment.

The Second Wind Board of Directors will recruit Peers Support Team Members from Second Wind members and will attempt to include patients from a variety of cultural groups, diagnostic groups, transplant centers and transplant experiences.

Peer Requirements

1.         Pre and post-lung transplant patients and their caregivers can volunteer to serve as a Peer Support Team Member in the Second Wind Peer Support Program.

2.         To qualify as a Peer Support Team Member,  pre-lung transplant patients must be listed with a UNOS approved Lung Transplant Program for a minimum of one (1) year and post-transplant patients must be at least one (1) year post transplant and adherent with their medical care.  Caregivers will follow the same requirements.

3.         Peer Support Team Member applicant will obtain a written endorsement from a member of their transplant team, indicating they are adhering to the medical plan set out by their transplant center.  They will also execute a medical release of information to Second Wind.  

4.         The Peer Support Team Member applicant completes an application, including an agreement to release medical information, and participates in a telephone interview regarding their interest in being active in the Second Wind Peer Support Program.

Qualities of successful Peers include:

1.         Has good communication skills including the ability to listen to others, strong interpersonal skills, a nonjudgmental and open attitude, and adheres to the NO MEDICAL ADVICE RULE.

2.         Is committed to respecting the confidentiality of all other persons involved in the program.

3.         Has a willingness to maintain communication with the Second Wind Peer Support Program.

4.         Has a good understanding of all facets of Lung Transplantation.

5.         Understands stressors associated with transplantation such as relocation, financial strain, and waiting.  Can recognize “red flags” and realize when to ask for help (depression and suicide).

1.         Persons requesting a Peer will contact Second Wind via the toll free phone number.

2.         Second Wind will provide a list of up to five (5) Peers based on the callers’ circumstances.

3.         A Second Wind representative will give the caller the following information about Peers: Peer Name, Email Address, Transplant Center, Diagnosis and Date of Transplant.

DISCLAIMER for the Second Wind Peer Support Program

Information, support, advocacy and guidance given and experiences shared by Peers are for educational and general information purposes only and not intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult your own physician or healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.  Each individual’s situation is different and it is your responsibility to discuss any information you receive with your physician.  Second Wind and your individual Transplant Center is not responsible for the information you receive from a Peer.