I was sick and at 58 years of age, my world was falling apart, my family and job were suffering. I had previously had a T.I.P.P.S. procedure, (for oesophageal varices) which had worked for a while but my doctor had just told me he thought I needed a liver transplant. He referred me to Professor Geoff McCaughan and that was the best thing that could have ever happened to me.

I saw Professor McCaughan and was under his care for about twelve months having various tests and lead up work, etc. In July 2000 the Professor told me he was going to recommend me to be put on the transplant list. This surprised me as I thought I was already on the list. I had a few more tests and went through the interview process and was placed on the transplant list. Only a short time elapsed when on a Sunday night my wife Margaret, received a phone call from the Co-Coordinators who summonsed us to RPA as a donor had been found.

I left hospital six weeks later after transplant I had a few problems in the early stages, but the medical staff quickly dealt with these. Dr Simmone Strasser has been my guardian angel ever since then and what a wonderful job she has done, as has all the staff at the A.W. Morrow Clinic.

I suppose it took twelve months to get my strength back and I have just kept improving.

I come into contact with many people involved in Liver Transplantation through my association with The Liver Support Group. Many are not as fortunate as me, but the medical people at RPA are equal to the best in the world and if anyone is going to solve the problems they are, so hang in there!!!

None of this of course would be possible without a donor and his/her family. My wife, my three sons and I thank you whoever your may be. There is no greater gift than the gift of life.

- Mr Jim Mckinlay