A Holiday Gift of Life

Marilyn Walto of Dalton, MA suffered from an autoimmune disease known as Primary Biliary Cholangitis (PBC) since the 1980s. PBC is a progressive, chronic disease which destroys the liver’s bile ducts. It can cause swelling in the feet and legs, abdominal pain, and other issues.

Back in the summer, Marilyn’s health suddenly deteriorated necessitating a life-saving liver transplant. After her daughter posted on Facebook about her mom’s need, scores of willing people, including family members and friends, came forward offering to be a living donor. Unfortunately, none of them were able to do so, either due to pre-existing health conditions or simply because they were not a match.

Then, on Thanksgiving Eve, Marilyn received the call that a liver match was available. She received a transplant and is now doing great. In fact, she just celebrated her 68th birthday.

Marilyn’s story tells of how organ donation provides people with hope and the opportunity to reach milestones they never would have otherwise. It saves lives, including mine nearly 12 years ago. 

If you have not registered as an organ and tissue donor, please do so as about 20 Americans will die today waiting due to a lack of registered donors. To register in the state where you live, please visit the Donate Life America website by clicking here. 

Read More: www.BershireEagle.com article titled “With Her Family, A Mom Celebrates A Birthday She Never Thought She’d See”