Homewood Woman Takes First Breaths with New Lungs

"Josie is off the ventilator and breathing on her own."

A very optimistic post by Josie Nordman's mother, Nicolle, on her Facebook page around 11:30 a.m. Monday.

"Watching (her) lungs rise and fall at a normal rate is a beautiful and amazing sight," she said.

Josie underwent a successful and long-awaited double lung transplant Sunday at the University of Chicago. Prior to now, a lifelong battle with cystic fibrosis had reduced the 20-year-old Homewood teen's lung capacity almost entirely. For months now, the community has rallied in support of Josie—helping, in part, to raise over $45,000 for her operation. 

But the struggle is not entirely over, warns her mother.

"We have a very long road in front of us with recovery, worrying about rejection etc," Nicolle Nordman said on Facebook. "Please keep us in your thoughts and prayers daily."

Still, friends and family are showing continued support:

• Meghan R: Every update gives me a lump in my throat. What a moment for your family.
• Valerie R: So happy for you ALL!!! Sending lot's of love your way!
• Bernie M: Great news and progress so far. We will keep all of you in our thoughts.

We will continue to provide updates on Josie's recovery.