Michael Vamos | Transplant Recipient | Michael of Hazlet had suffered with Cystic Fibrosis for his entire life. During his teenage years, his lung function dropped to 17% and he weighed only 93 pounds. On March 11, 2016, Michael’s prayers were answered when he underwent a double-lung transplant at Newark Beth Israel Medical Center. “On my first breath, I coughed and it felt like a cannon because I had so much air in my lungs,” said Michael. “It had been so long since I breathed normally that I forgot what it was like.” Now at 23-years-old, Michael is living a busy and active lifestyle. He works long hours as an emergency dispatcher, attends school and is focused on his career goal of becoming a police officer. Michael has also developed a truly special way to honor his donor. On the 11th day of each month, Michael and his mother go on the beach in Sea Bright to watch the sunrise and reflect on the generosity and selflessness of Michael’s donor.