It was back in February 1988, when Robert found himself struggling to walk home from school. After undergoing a multitude of tests, he was diagnosed with autoimmune hepatitis, a chronic disease in which the body’s immune system attacks the liver and causes damage.
With medication, Robert was able to manage his health for many years. In the back of his mind, Robert knew that one day his liver would begin to fail. That day came in 2009 and when his condition began to worsen, Robert was added to the liver transplant list.
With the help of the Canadian Liver Foundation, Robert was able to connect with other liver transplant recipients who shared their personal stories and experiences with him. Robert received a liver transplant in early 2010. His surgery was a great success and he was declared their healthiest patient only 33 days after his surgery. He thanks his surgeon and the transplant team and is extremely grateful to his anonymous donor and the donor family for their gift of organ donation.
Today, Robert is feeling great; his energy is back. He joined his local Running Room walking group and participated in their ‘learn-to-run’ training program. Robert has gone on to run in local races and become an instructor for the ‘learn-to-run’ program.
Robert has been an active volunteer for the Canadian Liver Foundation in Eastern Ontario for the past 8 years, supporting our fundraising efforts and assisting with major events. Robert provides peer support to future liver transplant recipients, offering guidance, comfort and confidence.