Beloved Lemoore youth baseball coach recovering after double lung transplant [Video]

LEMOORE, Calif. (KFSN) — A South Valley community is coming together and rallying its support behind a long-time youth baseball coach in the days following a life-saving transplant.

“It’s a struggle right now. I wake up every day. I’m getting a little bit stronger,” said Ivan Legarretta after receiving a double lung transplant.

Christmas arrived early for 58-year-old from Lemoore when he learned he’d be receiving a double lung transplant.

On December 23rd, Ivan underwent a 10-hour surgery at Stanford Hospital. His wife of 30 years never left his side.

“The support and my wife and kids coming down to see me, but most of all, too the Good Lord! Good Lord’s kept me here also by by having a donor, you know, giving me this opportunity to live a second chance at life,” said Ivan.

The father of four was diagnosed with pulmonary fibrosis lung disease in February 20-22 after contracting COVID that …