“We’re still in that wait-and-see game, but by all accounts, she looks stronger and in better spirits,” S’ad said. Transplant physicians have said there is a critical organ shortage and research has shown that some alcoholics resume drinking after a transplant, leading to liver failure. S’ad said several potential donors have offered to help Saunders with full awareness of her history of alcohol use, making the “arbitrary” criteria even less applicable. Saunders’ case is the latest in a series of clashes over the transplant policy, and has drawn national attention with demonstrations being held in several Canadian cities. Ossie Michelin, a friend of Saunders who helped organize the campaign, said her personal struggles and Indigenous rights advocacy are intimately connected.

Source: National Post December 17, 2017 15:45 UTC