Kincardine woman in desperate need of liver transplant

Kelsey Gibson (above) is in London's University Hospital in desperate need of a full liver transplant.

The 20-year-old Kincardine woman has been diagnosed with Wilson's Disease, a genetic condition in which the body cannot remove excess copper, causing it to accumulate in the eyes, brain, liver, and other vital organs. Most cases of this disorder are diagnosed when patients are between the age of five and 35.

A third-year student at Conestoga College in Cambridge, Kelsey began having problems in October of last year, says her father, Peter. The diagnosis of Wilson's Disease was made earlier this month at University Hospital.

“Kelsey is in desperate need of a full liver transplant,” says Peter, stressing the importance of the organ donor program and urging everyone to register to be one. “Many people are not aware that the organ transplant program is now tied to your Health Card not your driver's licence.

“Kelsey is a real trooper. She has given every vial of blood, endured every needle prick, every pain in her abdomen, every test imaginable to get to this point. She did this and thanked the nurses every time. When her hemoglobin dropped so low, that it was all she could do to keep her eyes open, she never complained.

“Through all the help and support she has received from the amazing doctors and nurses at the hospital, she has stabilized, and is in great shape for her liver transplant.

“This is my plea - and I'm sure you've heard it 1,000 times before - but please, make sure you have your donor card signed. For the 30 seconds it takes to check the back of your health card, please do it. At the very least, please take an hour the next time you see a blood donor clinic near you, to stop in and donate your blood. You just never know who's life you may save.

“I never imagined that I would be facing this terrible illness side-by-side with Kelsey. We are so grateful to everyone for all the love and support that has been shown in so many different ways. Please keep it coming. There is no way we could do this without you.”

For more information about the organ donor program, visit www.beadonor.ca