Board Member

Gary Cooper

In 1996, at the age of 51, Gary had been fairly healthy until tests revealed that his liver had developed primary sclerosing cholangitis (PSC). Tests had determined that he had less than a year to live unless he underwent a liver transplant. Through the grace of God and the generosity of an organ donor, Gary received a transplant at the Toronto General Hospital. Six months after the operation, he returned to duty as an Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) officer stationed at the Thunder Bay Detachment.

Due to this life saving gift, Gary was able to complete 38 years of service with the OPP. In 2010, while enjoying a life of retirement, tests revealed that the PSC had returned; a second lifesaving liver transplant was needed, once again completed at the Toronto General Hospital. Gary returned to a full family life, a part time job at a fitness facility, and the enjoyable role of promoting organ and tissue donation. This was all possible because of the compassionate and selfless gift from the two liver donors.

While on the HAGI board, Gary is driven to help improve a barrier free lifestyle for the many members of the HAGI family. His interests include cooking, caring for his home, and expanding his knowledge of all the world has to offer.