Jack Matheson was just nine months old when he was diagnosed with Alpha-1 antitrypsin deficiency, a genetic condition that causes low levels of a protein and can damage the lungs and liver. By then, the Langley boy had already been to numerous medical appointments and his health was deteriorating.
His mother, Stephanie Matheson, reflects on the initial diagnosis, "It didn't feel real at first because we found out when he was still a baby."
Over the years, as Jack's symptoms worsened — marked by frequent illnesses and slow recovery from infections — the only treatment left was a liver transplant. Jack was placed on he waitlist in February 2018.
Incredibly, an anonymous living donor came forward a few months later. Jack and his family travelled to Edmonton for the transplant surgery as there is no pediatric liver transplant program in B.C. On July 20, 2018, at the age of 6, Jack received his second chance at life.
Stephanie remembers the anxious day of waiting. "The surgery took much longer than we expected, so waiting to be able to see him afterwards was very difficult.”
The transplant was a success and marked the beginning of a new chapter for Jack, a return to “normal” life without the constant threat of illness.
Following the liver transplant, it didn’t take long for Jack to get back to sports. He has been able to explore activities that were too risky before, including volleyball, basketball, tennis and soccer. Even simple things like jumping on a trampoline and playing in a bouncy castle were previously off-limits.
Stephanie comments, "He can now participate in anything that interests him and he is no longer at the same level of risk with physical sports."
Now 12 years old, sports are a central part of Jack’s life. He joined the Langley Cyclones, a local soccer team, where his father Scott is also the coach. Playing on the team improved his physical health, and also helped him connect with the community.
Part of ‘normal’ life means, just like any other kid, Jack has had his fair share of bumps, bruises and injuries. His parents have since learned to take in stride, even if it has meant extra visits to the hospital.
"Jack started skating lessons shortly after his transplant. On his six-month post-transplant day, he fell on the ice and broke his arm," his mother recalls. Despite the situation, she adds, "Jack was incredibly calm throughout this hospital visit despite how scared his dad and I were."
The Matheson family recently marked the anniversary of Jack's transplant on July 20. They always have a special celebration, recognizing the significance of this day in their lives. Both Stephanie and Scott actually had the date of Jack’s transplant tattooed on their wrists.
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he family also advocates for organ donation as part of their commitment to give back to the community. The Mathesons actively participate in events and initiatives to raise awareness about the importance of organ donation. Stephanie shares their story in schools, including Jack’s school, to promote Green Shirt Day every April, an event dedicated to increasing awareness about organ donation.
Their involvement has connected them with other families in similar situations, fostering a supportive network. “We have also met many incredible families along the way and being able to support each other has been very powerful,” Stephanie states. “My advice for others facing similar challenges: trust in the medical professionals, never be afraid to ask lots of questions and remind yourself just how resilient kids are."
They have reached out to their donor a couple of times and received one letter back. But the donor wishes to remain anonymous, and Stephanie says, “We are forever grateful to this person for the life they have provided to Jack."
Jack's future is filled with ambition and promise, thanks to the gift of life from an organ donor. He starts high school this fall, a big milestone, and even though he is just 12, he already has plans. "I dream of being a teacher one day because of my mom. And I just want to keep on playing lots of sports!"
