Meet Colby, an 18-month-old little fighter full of light and love. Colby has a rare genetic condition called Alagille Syndrome, which impacts his liver, kidneys, heart, and eyes. Over the last few months, his liver disease has progressed rapidly, pushing his family into a whirlwind of medical appointments, hospital stays, and difficult decisions.
Colby also has a history of viral encephalitis, which struck once as a newborn and again at 8 months old. These infections have caused seizures and brain damage, the long-term effects of which are still unknown. Right now, Colby is unable to walk or stand—he spends his days sitting, lying down, or being carried so he can continue exploring the world the only way he can.
In early June, Colby was sent to Edmonton for a liver transplant assessment, but an abnormal MRI revealed brain changes no one could easily explain. That MRI kicked off weeks of confusion, testing, and treatments. Colby was transferred to Alberta Children’s Hospital, where he has now been hospitalized for over 6 weeks with no discharge date in sight.
During this admission, Colby has endured countless procedures, unexpected complications like ascites, hypoglycemia, and severe malnutrition, and repeated attempts to stabilize his fragile condition. He is now on 20 hours a day of IV nutrition (TPN) through a central line, and his team is searching for safer, more effective feeding options to help him heal and grow strong enough for surgery.
Despite the ups and downs, Colby was officially listed for a liver transplant on July 3rd. His family is clinging to hope as they wait for the right donor—Colby has blood type O+, meaning he needs a donor with the same blood type. A living liver donor could be his best shot.
This registry was created to help lift the financial burden off Colby’s family as they navigate long hospital stays, transplant preparation, travel, and time away from work. Every gift, prayer, and message of support helps them stay focused on the most important thing—giving Colby a second chance at life.
Thank you for standing with Colby and his family during this incredibly hard season. Your love and generosity truly make a difference.
Those who would like to help the family can:
- Choose from Support Registry options
- ‘Share’ to Spread the Word to family and friends
- ‘Follow’ Updates to stay informed
Thank you.
If you are an O blood type, in good health, and would consider seeing if you would be a match, please contact the Edmonton Living Liver Donor Services at 780-407-8698 🩵
Words of Support
Donate, send meals, or lend a hand to include words of support.
Les Surkan
Kirsten Friesen
Ashley Thackeray
Deborah
Thigamilka