Michelle Portra

Michelle Portra was born with a rare liver disease (biliary atresia). At 8 weeks old she underwent the Kasai procedure which created an artificial bile duct. Many children born with this disease undergo a liver transplant at a young age. Despite numerous complications and hospitalizations throughout her life, Michelle’s liver hung in there and did its job for nearly 28 years! The cause of Biliary Atresia is unknown and the only cure is a liver transplant.

Michelle has been on the liver transplant waiting list for 10 years and she finally has a date! Her husband is donating a portion of his liver to Michelle and surgery is set for September 14th in Denver.

Due to the distance to the transplant center, Michelle will have to relocate and live in Denver for about 2-3 months around the time of her transplant. She will also need to travel to Denver for care both prior to and after her transplant. In addition, Michelle will be on a life-time of expensive anti-rejection medications. We are very appreciative of the many offers of support and prayers during this time.

A fundraising campaign in Michelle’s honor has been established with HelpHOPELive, a nonprofit organization that has been assisting the transplant community for over 40 years. All contributions are tax deductible, are held by HelpHOPELive in the Northwest Liver Transplant Fund, and are administered for transplant related expenses only. For those who are able and would like to contribute: On behalf of Michelle and our family, we thank you for your kindness, generosity and support.

Kass and Pete Portra
406-861-1621
[email protected]