A family in Guelph, Ontario is urgently seeking a live liver donor for their 10-month-old son, Myles Beaulieu, who suffers from biliary atresia, a rare liver disease diagnosed when he was just seven weeks old.
Myles is currently awaiting a transplant at Toronto’s Hospital for Sick Children, where his family has been since May 25th. According to his mother, Emily Vokey, they are unable to return home until Myles receives a new liver.
Despite efforts from family members to become donors, none have been found to be a suitable match. Vokey is now appealing to the public in hopes of finding a donor.
Potential donors must have blood type A or O, both positive and negative, be between the ages of 16 and 50, and be in good general health, Vokey explained.
Mohit Arora, Vice Chair of the Canadian Liver Foundation, emphasized the resilience of the liver, noting that a donated portion can regenerate fully within months. He stressed that potential donors come from diverse backgrounds and aren’t limited by ethnicity or familial relations.
Arora, who himself received a liver transplant as a child, highlighted the profound impact of organ donation in saving lives and benefiting entire communities.
Vokey acknowledged that donating is a significant and personal decision, reassuring that there are other ways to support Myles, such as sharing his story, donating blood, or learning about biliary atresia.
Until a suitable donor comes forward, Myles’ parents remain at the hospital, where his cheerful demeanor has made him well-known among staff and patients.
“Despite his condition, he is the happiest, sweetest baby,” Vokey shared. “His resilience and curiosity inspire everyone around him.”
For updates or to inquire about becoming a donor, Vokey encourages interested individuals to reach out directly to the family.
