Dad. Grandpa. Son. Uncle. Brother. Friend. Talk to his kids, grandkids, mom, nieces, siblings and friends for five minutes and you’ll find out how beloved Bruce Singleton is. You’ll see their eyes light up as they recall his spiritual advice, loving patience, brilliant way with words, wildly witty texts, magical way with a guitar, and endless good humor, even in the face of adversity.
Bruce is 62 years young, especially at heart. He was diagnosed with idiopathic Pulmonary Fibrosis (IPF) in 2016. His early symptoms were a troubling cough and shortness of breath. He’s the type of guy that would never want you troubled by his condition. He’s more interested in how you’re doing as the doctors and nurses tending to his care learned during visits when he’d bring the team treats and shoot the breeze during assessments. A year ago, his symptoms worsened. Despite his avid attention to staying healthy and doing all he could to maintain his lung health level, his doctors determined that Bruce needed a lung transplant.
Updates (2)
May 24, 2017
Hello Team Bruce!
We are very happy to announce that Bruce underwent a very successful lung transplant surgery on Saturday May 20!
Bruce got the call late Friday night and it was go time! Tests were run throughout the night on Friday night and by morning it was determined that the lung was a good match! The surgery took place Saturday early afternoon and by Saturday evening Dr. Linda Bogar, our brilliant superhero surgeon, came out to tell us that it was very successful left lung transplant!
We are so grateful to his doctors and medical team at INOVA fairfax, to friends and family like you, who have supported him through this last year and- it's hard to express this adequately- to the donor who's lung will give Bruce a brand new start. Eternal Gratitude.
Bruce is recovering at a rapid rate and impressing the amazing staff in ICU with his progress. He is cracking jokes and spreading his positive strong spirit with everyone around him! They will have him out of ICU and on the 'step down' floor as soon as a bed becomes available there. One nurse just said "you gotta get out of here because ICU is for sick people and your not sick anymore". It's been amazing to see his oxygen levels at 100% with no oxygen therapy!
This has been a miraculous experience so far and we cannot thank all of you enough for your thoughts, prayers, good vibes, care, love, and your contributions here on HHL!
The surgery is behind us. Now his journey back to health begins! We know with Bruce's great attitude and all of the love and support from all of you he is on a beautiful path to full health and recovery! We will continue to update you all! Thank you for your continued support!
April 6, 2017
Bruce and family would like to thank each and everyone of you for your loving, caring words and healing thoughts and prayers.
Bruce is maintaining a healthy lifestyle and keeping happy and positive due in large part to everyone's support.
He is overwhelmed with the love and support from everyone.
Guestbook
May 20, 2017
Uncle B -
My favorite story from other family members is about when I was born. You were in the waiting room telling jokes and everyone remembers how fun and high spirited you are. Now, clearly I don't remember that. What I do remember is seeing you after I woke up in the hospital in '07. I also remember you being there when I broke my leg in '13. You have always been a rock for me. It's my turn to be a rock for you.
I love you so, so much. Xo.
Katricia Bear
May 9, 2017
Hey Bruce, It's Bobbi, Dave's friend...
Though we've only met once, I feel like I know you at least a little bit through that amazing brother of yours..
If everyone loves you a small percentage of the amount Dave loves you, you are the luckiest (or most deserving) dude in the known world.
We're all with you through this...
Bobbi Whalen
March 19, 2017
Bruce,
I am a student of your brother, Dave. He has helped transform my writing and encouraged and inspired me. It is a privilege to give back. I hope that you will draw strength from the many people who are praying for you and supporting you.
Sarah Birnbach
