Melnyk appreciative of fans' efforts in liver search

The Ottawa Senators issued the following statement on the health of owner Eugene Melnyk

We lead such busy lives in today's world it is often a challenge to appreciate how important and vitally dependent we are on being in good health.

The past few months have presented me with the greatest challenge of my life and up until most recently, it has been very personal and private.

Over the last few weeks, my declining health became considerably more critical and urgent. During this time, my family and a few very close friends have worked tirelessly to help save my life.

Their incredible efforts helped to identify numerous potential live liver donors, but in the end, none were deemed to be medically suitable. We had simply exhausted all of our options and they convinced me we had to reach out for more help.

Since the announcement of my situation became public last week, I have been overwhelmed by the outpouring of support from the public and the media. It is truly heartwarming to feel loved by so many people.

Words cannot even begin to express how thankful my family and I are for your expressions of support, your prayers, and your unconditional desire to help me in the biggest battle of my life.

I want to also acknowledge the ongoing efforts of the physicians, nurses, and medical staff of the University Health Network and Toronto General Hospital's Multi-Organ Transplant Program including Dr. Gary Levy and Dr. Atul Humar. They are to be commended for their focus and tireless dedication in facilitating the precious gift of life to so many people like me who are in dire need of an organ transplant.

This journey has given me an important opportunity to help raise awareness and improve public education about the life-saving importance of organ donation. I would encourage everyone to take a few moments to learn more about being a donor in their respective province or state.

The act of helping one another is a powerful thing. You have lifted my spirits, and in the process have given me all the strength I need at this difficult time. Thank you from the bottom of my heart.