Matthew Gunnlaugson (Gunner)

Last fall, my brother Matthew Gunnlaugson (Gunner) was diagnosed with stage 4 PBC, an auto-immune liver disease. Where healthy livers self-regenerate, his is in a state of cirrhosis and has deteriorated to the point of needing a transplant to save his life. As the function of the liver affects the body in many ways, this has also resulted in weaker bones, a compromised immune system, and a general loss in quality of life, including being now unable to work.

Our families want to support Matt and his partner Arwen through this journey. First, we need to find a living donor match. We are asking anyone with A+ or O blood types between the ages of 16 - 60 who are willing to be considered for matching to submit this health history form: https://www.uhn.ca/Transplant/Living_Donor_Program/Documents/Living_Donor_Health_History_Form.pdf (https://www.uhn.ca/Transplant/Living_Donor_Program/Documents/Living_Donor_Health_History_Form.pdf) . This is a completely private process and there is no pressure or obligation in the submitting process at any time. We currently have a potential donor being tested and are hopeful they will be a match. If they are not, the team of Drs in Toronto will return to the list of folks who have submitted this health questionnaire and reach out to the next most viable option.

A living donor would donate 60 - 70 % of their liver, which grows back to 100 % within a few weeks. The in-hospital time for the donor is generally 6 days with full recovery (heavy lifting / full strength) within 12 weeks. For more info, you can visit the UHN website: https://www.uhn.ca/Transplant/Living_Donor_Program/Pages/liver_donor_evaluation.aspx (https://www.uhn.ca/Transplant/Living_Donor_Program/Pages/liver_donor_evaluation.aspx) . This procedure will save Matt’s life and we are grateful for anyone willing to consider.

Second, there will be expenses associated with this process for Matt, his donor, and their mandatory support persons. Matt and Arwen would like to be able to alleviate any and all financial burdens for the potential donor and their support person. This procedure is done in Toronto. Manitoba Health covers the cost of the flights and the surgeries / hospital stay but does not cover other expenses such as transportation (ie. cab from airport), accommodations, loss of wages, medication, or if there is a potential donor from out of country who is called to be tested.

We all want to find Matt a match as quickly as possible and thank you for your love and support during this time.

Tavis King