Kevin Maggs has undergone three liver transplants since 2004 after contracting hepatitis C at the age of 19 following a blood transfusion. The Gledswood Hills father has been a donor recipient trailblazer, with transplants now completed differently as a result of his experiences.
The 57-year-old’s story is being highlighted during DonateLife Week, a time to encourage Australians to register their donation decision.
Mr Maggs’ wife, Meredith, said her husband’s first liver transplant was in April 2004.
His body rejected the split liver after five years which resulted in hepatitis C donor recipients no longer receiving split liver transplants.
“It’s an unusual feeling knowing a family has lost someone and we have been given a chance. It’s hard to find the words to describe but we do our absolute best to respect the organ and the life it may never have had,” Mrs Maggs said.
“The fact Kevin’s had three transplants and survived is miraculous. We often think about the donors and their families and are very thankful for them helping Kevin.”
Mr Maggs’ second transplant in July 2009 lasted just 40 hours before his body rejected it. The liver was full of fat, which also led to changes in the way organs were tested before being given to donor recipients.
His third was a complete mismatch – it was from a female, it was smaller, the wrong blood type and arrived just hours before doctors said he would die.
This year marks a decade since the transplant and it’s “still going strong”.
Mr Maggs described waiting for a transplant like he’s sparring for a fight.
“When they wheel me off to theatre I put on my boxing gloves and get ready for the fight of my life,” he said.
“I just want to say a big thank you to all of the amazing doctors and nurses who have helped me through this journey and ask everyone waiting for a transplant to put their gloves on and fight like hell; we are all right behind you.”
South Western Sydney Local Health District chief executive Amanda Larkin said DonateLife Week was a great opportunity to raise awareness about the importance of organ donation.
“It really is essential you have the conversation with your family about becoming an organ or tissue donor,” she said.
“Information stalls at our District hospitals and in the community are a great way to prompt discussions about donation with loved ones and register your decision.”
