Brantford man in desperate need of living liver donor

Jay Shawana, a beloved and well-known member of the Brantford Indigenous community and father of four is battling stage four cancer. Family and friends want to get the word out because it might be a stranger who saves his life.

Shawana works from home, leading a not-for-profit that provides employment and training services to the youth of his Indigenous community. He coaches hockey, cheerleading and is well known for his positive energy.

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For the last two years, most of his time has been spent battling stage four liver cancer. “It’s super emotional, and super overwhelming for sure.”

He says both the physical and mental trauma is unreal. He was initially diagnosed with colon cancer and that led to a second diagnosis of liver cancer. He has gone through two major surgeries and 16 cycles of chemotherapy with side effects causing almost unbearable pain.

Shawana is in desperate need of a living liver donor. A Facebook page called “Winner Winner Jason’s Liver” has information on how to help.

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Many people have reached out, but there are several health related requirements such as a blood type of O+ or O-. No history of heart attack, cardiac stents, or stroke. You must also be 18 years of age or older, among other requirements.

Shawana’s wife Theresa runs his social media accounts and leads the campaign to find him a donor.

Shawana says he continues to have faith and hope, “there’s got to be somebody out there who can help because that’s the hope we are holding onto.”

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