A 51-year-old Airdrie man who spent the better part of a year in hospital while awaiting a match for a double lung transplant died during the surgical procedure to fit him with his new organs.
Mark Dolter had been diagnosed with congenital pulmonary lymphangiectasia (CPL), a rare genetic condition that affects roughly one in every 45 million adults. The disorder makes breathing difficult and Dolter required a mechanical ventilator at night and oxygen tubes around the clock.
In February, after spending more than 200 consecutive days in hospital, Dolter gave CTV Calgary a glimpse of what life is like on the organ wait list to bring awareness to the importance of organ donation.
After news of an organ match, Dolter was flown to Edmonton on April 1 to receive a double lung transplant. Family members confirm Dolter passed away during the 13 hour operation.
“Sign your donor card,” said Dolter during the February interview. “When you sign your donor card, talk to your family about it so they don’t overturn your wishes.”
“One donor can make so much difference to eight people.”
For information about organ donation, visit Alberta Organ and Tissue Donation Registry.
