Norwegian Crown Princess Mette‑Marit placed on lung‑transplant list as health worsens

Norway’s Crown Princess Mette‑Marit, 52, who has been battling pulmonary fibrosis for years, was officially added to the national lung‑transplant waiting list after her condition deteriorated. The royal palace announced that a donor lung may be her last therapeutic option, as the disease progressively scars lung tissue and cannot be cured.

Earlier this month, the princess attended the country’s Constitution Day parade on May 17, appearing in a heavy coat and using an breathing apparatus. She was seen taking a seat on a chair during the children's procession and left the palace balcony at about 11:30 a.m. because she ran out of stamina. Her public appearance highlighted the severity of her illness, which includes symptoms such as breathlessness, chronic cough and fatigue. Medical experts note that transplantation is considered only when lung function falls to a critical level.