A Sunshine Coast maths teacher is celebrating an extraordinary milestone after receiving a liver transplant.
Steve Griffith has notched 30 years since he received the life-saving gift as a six-year-old.
Born with alpha-1 antitrypsin deficiency, a genetic condition that can cause lung and liver damage, he faced constant health challenges during his childhood, worsened by a bout of glandular fever.
“I remember many visits to gastroenterologists to try to gain weight and a surgery to check if my liver was affected by something other than alpha-1,” he said.
His life changed after waiting on the transplant list for five months.
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“The phone rang, I picked it up and gave it to mum or dad,” he said.
“They were shocked but we quickly packed our bags and got ready to drive to Brisbane.”
The transplant journey was not without complications: Mr Griffith endured multiple surgeries to ensure the liver graft worked correctly but he remained positive even during his challenging childhood.
“Before the transplant I was sick but happy,” he said.
“Except for the repeated hospital visits, I had a fairly normal childhood.”
Three decades later, he is thriving.
He completed school, graduated from university and won multiple gold medals at the World Transplant Games.
He was also twice awarded Athlete of the Games at the Australian Transplant Games.
The teacher from Buderim said he treasured his personal achievements such as his wedding day and raising his two boys, aged 9 and 6.
Reflecting on his journey, he expressed gratitude to his donor and their family.
“I live life to the fullest and intend to keep my liver for as long as I can,” he said.
“Without this gift, I wouldn’t be here today.
“This has changed my life and my family’s lives for generations.”
Mr Griffith strongly advocated for organ donation, urging others to register as donors.
“Registering as an organ and tissue donor is the simplest, most selfless choice anyone can make,” he said.
“I am living proof of this and a very grateful recipient.”
One organ donor can save up to seven people and change the lives of many more through eye and tissue donation.
People who want to be an organ and tissue donor can register today at donatelife.gov.au.
