Born in 1986, Darryl was just one year old when his parents noticed he had stopped growing. He was eventually diagnosed with a rare condition that prevented his body from digesting food and absorbing nutrients. There was no cure.
Unable to eat, Darryl relied on intravenous (IV) nutrition every night for nearly 20 years. The treatment kept him alive but limited his freedom. Travel was complicated, camping was impossible, and everyday activities required careful planning. Growing up, Darryl had one wish: to eat like everyone else. It was the one thing he asked for on birthdays and holidays.
Despite the challenges, Darryl led a relatively normal childhood and even went away to university. But the treatment that sustained his life ultimately caused end-stage liver failure, making a transplant his only option. Darryl was added to the transplant waiting list at 19. A year later, during exam season, he received the call that organs had become available.
In November 2006, Darryl received a liver, bowel, stomach, and pancreas from a single donor. Today, his life is dramatically different. He treasures the freedom his transplant gave him: the ability to travel, make plans without worrying about treatments, and enjoy something he once only dreamed of—eating. His most cherished memories are simple ones, like trying sushi for the first time, eating pizza in Italy, and enjoying his all-time favourite food, tortellini.
Now a Director of Pharmacy managing a group of independent community pharmacies, Darryl draws on his experience as a transplant recipient to help patients navigate the healthcare system during some of the most difficult moments in their lives.
That perspective took on new meaning when his son, Owen, was diagnosed with the same rare condition as a toddler. At age two, Owen lost his small bowel following a severe illness and required IV nutrition to survive.
"As a child, I knew I was sick and was being taken care of, but as a parent watching my son go through it, I felt helpless. I couldn't do anything to make it better."
Although Owen continued to grow and thrive, a transplant would eventually be necessary. At four years old, he was added to the transplant waiting list.
Like his father, Owen received a life-saving multi-organ transplant and today he is thriving. He's doing well in school, surrounded by friends, and embracing life with a positive attitude.
For Darryl, seeing his son healthy is a powerful reminder of the impact of organ donation. He’s grateful to be building a vibrant life alongside his fiancée, Bette, enjoying road trips, racing autocross, and lots of outdoor adventures.
“Thanks to the generosity of our donor's family during an incredibly difficult time, Owen has the opportunity to keep living, growing, and making a positive impact on the world."
Darryl is passionate about sharing his family's story and advocating for organ and tissue donation. He hopes it encourages more people to register their decision to donate and offers reassurance to families facing transplantation.
Register today at BeADonor.ca.