Joy speaks with Shawn Smith, about chronic disease, his double lung transplants, setting goals with complex health planning and how to stay optimistic.

If health is our wealth then a focussed conversation like this will help you navigate your life challenges with determination and advocacy.

Shawn's pulmonary issues started in 1985 when he was 15 years old, was diagnosed with acute respiratory distress syndrome, and spent six months at Children’s Hospital in Seattle where he suffered a stroke and paralysis.

As an adult Shawn was diagnosed with interstitial lung disease - a diagnosis that generally has a 3 to 5 year lifespan and with other conditions spent 20 years oxygen dependant. Shawn was in need of a transplant.