Dr. Daniel F. Dilling has spent his career helping people with rare lung disease feel seen, supported, and cared for. He is a highly trained physician with several honors, including Fellow of the American College of Physicians, Fellow of the American Society of Transplantation, and Fellow of the American College of Chest Physicians. He is also active in leading medical groups like the International Society of Heart and Lung Transplantation and the American Thoracic Society. These roles reflect his deep commitment to learning, teaching, and improving care.

He stepped forward to create a clinic at Loyola and now that clinic cares for about 130 patients with LAM. Together, they provide thoughtful, team-based care that includes careful diagnosis, ongoing monitoring, and treatment options tailored to each person.

One of Dr. Dilling’s goals is to make the path to diagnosis as smooth as possible. He often uses non-invasive tools like imaging and blood tests, and only rarely needs to recommend a biopsy. When treatment is needed, it may include close monitoring, medication like sirolimus, support for lung issues, or even lung transplantation. Through every stage, he stays by his patients’ side, offering steady guidance and care.

His dedication to the LAM community goes beyond the clinic. Dr. Dilling served six years on The LAM Foundation’s Board of Directors, completing his term in 2025, and he now serves as Medical Director of the Circle of Hope Transplant Support Program. He also contributes his expertise to the Clinical Advisory Board, helping answer questions from doctors and patients around the world.

Dr. Dilling credits much of his inspiration to Dr. Frank McCormack, a leader whose vision helped advance LAM research and treatment. Through efforts like clinical trials and the development of clinic networks, that vision has shaped the care patients receive today, and inspired physicians like Dr. Dilling to carry the work forward.

Professionally, The LAM Foundation has connected Dr. Dilling with a close-knit global community of experts. Personally, it has given him something even more meaningful: the chance to ease fear and uncertainty for people facing a rare diagnosis. He understands how overwhelming that moment can be, and he takes pride in offering clear answers, steady support, and hope.

Over the years, his patients have left a lasting impact on him, including one he has cared for since 2010. After facing fear and stepping away from care for a time, she returned ready to move forward. Together, they navigated serious health challenges, including advanced lung disease and pulmonary hypertension, leading to a lung transplant. Today, she is thriving and enjoying her family, career, and travel. Each visit is filled with joyful updates for Dr. Dilling who is honored to be part of her journey.

With compassion, expertise, and unwavering dedication, Dr. Dilling continues to make a difference in the lives of people living with LAM every day.

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