A Port Perry family is once again appealing to the public for help as 66-year-old Yvan Lebel continues his search for a living kidney donor, a need his family says has become increasingly urgent.
Lebel was diagnosed in early 2021 with Goodpasture syndrome, a rare autoimmune disease that attacks the lungs and kidneys. Although the disease is now in remission and the antibodies are unlikely to return, his kidneys were permanently damaged.
For the past five years, Lebel has relied on dialysis several times a week to survive — a treatment that cleans the blood but cannot replace the long-term function of a healthy kidney.
While dialysis has kept him alive, it has not come without complications. According to his daughter, Leanne Lebel, her father has experienced multiple health setbacks, including hematomas, a blood infection, heart surgeries, and periods of intubation. Certain complications can temporarily make patients ineligible for transplant, leaving the family feeling they are racing against time.
Now cleared once again for transplant following heart surgery last winter, Lebel’s family says the urgency is greater than ever.
“We need to do this now while he’s in good health,” Leanne said. “I will do anything to save my dad’s life.”
Seeking a Living Donor
Lebel’s family is specifically seeking a living kidney donor with O blood type, concerned that the wait time for a deceased donor could be too long. According to the Trillium Gift of Life Network, the estimated wait time for a deceased donor kidney for someone with O blood type can range from three to six years.
While family members are not always ideal donors, Leanne says they are hoping to find “that person who can be a hero for our dad.”
Despite the challenges, Lebel remains hopeful. He sold his business after becoming ill but stays active in his workshop between dialysis appointments. Although his retirement plans have been put on hold, he maintains a positive outlook.
“He’s waiting for the call,” Leanne said. “He’s ready.”
Lebel says receiving a transplant would be life-changing, allowing him to spend more time with his family — especially his grandchildren.
How to Help
Anyone interested in becoming a living kidney donor for Yvan Lebel can contact the Living Donor Program at St. Michael’s Hospital by calling 416-867-3676 or emailing livedonorteam@smh.ca.
Photo Credits : https://www.durhamregion.com/news/port-perrys-yvan-lebel-is-still-looking-for-a-kidney-donor/article_dca1e245-6905-5bdf-9978-8522af4f284c.html
