A DOUBLE lung transplant patient is walking 100 miles to raise money for the charity that helped him through his condition.

Grant Ward, 48, is walking the South Downs Way over Easter to “get some fresh air in my new puffers”. 

Grant was born with cystic fibrosis, a genetic condition which has greatly affected the quality of his health throughout his life. 

He was put on the lung transplant list after his health had deteriorated rapidly, but was fortunately only on the list for six weeks. 

In August 2018, he underwent a life-saving double lung transplant at Harefield Hospital, near Uxbridge. 

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Grant, from the Isle of Wight, said: “My recovery from the operation was fairly quick, however I had many complications and hospitalisations while adjusting to my new medications. 

“It took me about two years to fully stabilise. 

“It was a difficult time, but it was definitely worth it in the end.”

He has now chosen to raise funds for the hospital’s charity by walking the 100 miles route from Winchester to Eastbourne.

He said: “These are the guys who gave me my new lungs, my new life and ongoing excellent aftercare. 

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“They are a great team that goes above and beyond the call of duty. 

“I can't thank them enough. 

“But like all NHS hospitals, they need our help to provide this extra level of care for their patients.”

It has been a long journey for Grant, he said he feels grateful that he is able to undertake such a fundraiser. 

He said: “Walking the South Downs Way will be a great achievement, being able to do such a long distance walk, over many hills and raising money for charity too.

"Some days I know are going to be very challenging, but undertaking such a walk a few years ago would have been unthinkable since my transplant I can walk with no wheeze or cough and I find it incredible, I thank my donor and their family for every breath I take.

"Through my adventure, I would love to be able to inspire people.

"I’d like to show those on the transplant waiting list and those who are unsure whether to go on the list what incredible things can be achieved post transplant."

To donate to Grant’s fundraiser please visit: https://www.facebook.com/donate/1022448544975650/