Support Ian Clay through Liver Transplant

Dear family, friends, neighbors, coworkers, acquaintances, strangers, and all those who have joined us in this heartfelt endeavor,

I am writing to extend my sincere appreciation and to rally your support for my husband, Ian Clay, as he embarks on a remarkable journey through a liver transplant. For those who may be unfamiliar with his story, Ian was born with an exceptionally rare liver condition known as Biliary Atresia, affecting only around 1 in 12,000 newborns. This non-hereditary, non-genetic condition affects the bile ducts, crucial tubes nestled within the liver. Regrettably, in the case of Biliary Atresia, these ducts become obstructed, impeding the flow and filtration of bile from the liver and gallbladder into the intestines. This unfortunate blockage leads to bile backflow into the liver, causing damage, scarring, and cirrhosis. The gravity of this condition demands prompt attention, as it poses a significant threat to life if left untreated.

Ian was fortunate enough to receive exemplary care at Children's Hospital in Denver, CO, where he underwent a pioneering procedure known as the Kasai Surgery. Though not curative, this procedure offers vital treatment for Biliary Atresia, granting Ian the opportunity to defy the odds and reach the age of 28 with no major complications.

However, in the summer of 2022, Ian experienced his first distressing flair-up, medically termed cholangitis, which is a common complication of Biliary Atresia. This infection, if left untreated, can be life-threatening. Neither Ian nor I were fully prepared for this unforeseen challenge, though he had always been aware that complications might arise at some point.

Since the initial infection, Ian has been in and out of the hospital over the past year. Fortunately, UC Health in Denver, renowned as one of the nation's leading liver transplant centers, has provided him with exceptional care. Ian's dedicated medical team advised that, following his second significant flair-up, a liver transplant would likely become an imperative necessity.

Now, we find ourselves at the present moment. Ian has recently undergone a thorough evaluation for a liver transplant. As we await the final verdict on the timeline and the specific transplant type he qualifies for—whether a living donor or a deceased donor—we are reaching out to our cherished community of supporters and loved ones to raise awareness. It is important to acknowledge that, upon approval and initiation of the transplant process, Ian will require an extended period of leave from work, during which I will be by his side to provide the care he so dearly needs.

In light of this, any donations received will be dedicated to covering medical expenses, living costs, and supporting Ian's arduous fight for health. We understand that financial support may not be viable for everyone, and we wholeheartedly welcome all prayers, good thoughts, healing vibes, texts, phone calls, and love.

As Ian embarks on this transformative journey, we vow to keep you informed with regular updates, allowing you to follow him along every step of the way.

With heartfelt gratitude and love,

Morgan, Ian, Lady, and Louie Clay