Crown Princess Mette-Marit of Norway Undergoes Lung Transplant Evaluation
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Crown Princess Mette-Marit of Norway, 52, is set to undergo an assessment for a lung transplant following a significant decline in her health. The Royal House of Norway recently disclosed this news about the wife of Crown Prince Haakon, the next in line to the Norwegian throne. Mette-Marit suffers from chronic pulmonary fibrosis, a condition characterized by scarring of the lung tissue that hampers normal lung function.
In a statement released on December 19, the Royal House of Norway revealed that Crown Princess Mette-Marit was diagnosed with pulmonary fibrosis in 2018. This condition makes it challenging for the lungs to oxygenate the bloodstream due to the accumulation of scar tissue. Over the autumn season, her health exhibited a noticeable deterioration, prompting the medical team at Rikshospitalet University Hospital to initiate the evaluation process for a potential lung transplant surgery.
Dr. Are Martin Holm, Professor and Head of the Department of Respiratory Medicine at Rikshospitalet University Hospital, indicated the likelihood of a lung transplant becoming a necessity. He underscored the healthcare professionals’ commitment to making the requisite preparations for the transplant procedure to ensure its feasibility when the time arises. However, a definitive decision regarding Mette-Marit’s placement on the lung transplant waiting list is still pending.
Despite her health challenges, Crown Princess Mette-Marit has expressed a strong desire to continue fulfilling her duties. The Royal House highlighted her increasing need for a tailored exercise routine, adequate rest, and recuperation. Plans are underway to adjust her official engagements to align with her health status, allowing her to carry out her responsibilities to the best of her ability.
Mette-Marit’s battle with chronic pulmonary fibrosis dates back to October 2018 when the Royal House initially disclosed her diagnosis. The condition is known to worsen progressively, with treatments such as medication, therapy, and potentially lung transplants being considered. Earlier this year, her pulmonary fibrosis advanced, impacting her future schedule, prompting a temporary hiatus from royal duties in October to focus on pulmonary rehabilitation.
During a statement to the press in September, Crown Princess Mette-Marit acknowledged the necessity for additional support to navigate daily life with pulmonary fibrosis, reinforcing her determination to address her health needs. As the Norwegian royal family faces this health challenge, Crown Prince Haakon stands by his wife’s side as they navigate this difficult journey together.
Recent public appearances by Crown Princess Mette-Marit alongside Crown Prince Haakon and their children have underscored their commitment to maintaining a sense of normalcy amidst these health trials. The outpouring of support from well-wishers and the public has been palpable as the Norwegian royal family navigates this period of uncertainty with grace and resilience.