California stone worker receives double lung transplant amid rising silicosis cases

A 56-year-old stone worker from the San Fernando Valley received a double lung transplant this summer after his condition deteriorated from silicosis, a lung disease associated with cutting engineered quartz countertops. The transplant, performed at UCLA Health, has allowed him to walk without a cane or wheelchair, though he remains under medical supervision and limited in his activities.

Silicosis cases in California have risen sharply, with a recent study noting an increase from 31 reported cases in 2019 to 631 earlier this week. Researchers said 31 deaths and 65 lung transplants occurred over the past eight years, and 151 new cases have been recorded this year, including 40 in the last month. The disease predominantly affects men, with a median age of 52, and many cases may go undiagnosed.

Gonzalez’s daughter, Edith Gonzalez, told reporters that her father’s health had declined to the point of intubation before the transplant and that he now shows “signs of improvement” and can resume short walks. She added that the transplant has enabled him to have longer conversations and reduced his dependence on supplemental oxygen.

The family announced the transplant on a GoFundMe page and indicated that Gonzalez will give a deposition next month in a lawsuit against companies they allege are responsible for exposing workers to hazardous silica levels. California’s Occupational Safety and Health Administration has linked the surge in silicosis to the growing demand for engineered stone products.

Gonzalez has been unable to work for two years, and the family has relied on donations to cover medical and living expenses. The case highlights ongoing concerns about workplace safety and the need for stricter controls on silica exposure in the stone-fabrication industry.