LIVEr Champion

My name is Cameron Dixon, and I am 22 years old and recently retired from the women’s soccer team at Portland State University. On July 27th, 2023, I made the life-changing decision to become a living organ donor to save my mother’s life. My mom has a genetic disease called polycystic liver and kidney disease (PKD/PLD), which has devastated our family for generations. Despite living a health-conscious lifestyle, she went into liver failure in the spring of 2023 and was placed on the National Transplant List. Liver patients may wait several years before receiving a new liver, and the chances of her surviving a long wait seemed unlikely. That’s when I decided to step up and see if I could be her living liver donor.

After undergoing extensive testing, I discovered that I was a match, even though an earlier blood test had suggested otherwise. My mom initially resisted the idea because she didn’t want me to sacrifice my senior soccer season, something our family had worked so hard to achieve. However, I knew this decision was bigger than soccer. My mom’s life mattered far more, and I was determined to give her this chance, regardless of the risks or uncertainties. The surgery itself was daunting—lasting nine and a half hours and involving the removal of 70% of my liver and my gallbladder. Recovery was challenging, but seeing my mom alive and thriving made every moment worth it.

This experience has profoundly shaped me. As an Applied Health and Fitness major with aspirations to become a personal trainer, I’ve always been passionate about health, fitness, and helping others. Donating my liver to my mom revealed the strength and courage we both possess and reinforced my commitment to leading a life dedicated to helping others. Now, as I transition from collegiate soccer to training and preparing to run the 2025 Boston Marathon with Team ALF, I feel compelled to continue sharing my story and inspire others. Athletes and individuals everywhere have the ability to create meaningful change, and I hope my journey demonstrates the incredible impact we can have on the world.