Some people take donating to others seriously and do it all their lives. Patrick Bolduc takes donating seriously and saves lives. Well, saved “life,” technically. He’s saved one so far, but he plans on saving another one as soon as he can, with another donation. He promises he’s not giving everything away, and we won’t either — at least, not in this introduction. Read on.

Name: Patrick Bolduc

Age: 45 on July 29th

Town of residence: Auburn (the smelly side of the river)

Home town: Lewiston (GO BLUE DEVILS!)

What do you do for work? I’m a sign maker for Neokraft Signs in Lewiston and I’m also a custom neon glass bender for Beacon Neon.

Was it a difficult decision to have a major operation and give part of your liver to your wife’s ailing uncle? Actually, the decision to do this came pretty easily. I saw it as something that just needed to be done, and I was glad to help.

What was the procedure like, and did it go as the doctors had predicted? The entire process takes many months. I went for my first blood test in early July and the operation didn’t take place until late September. I used up almost all of my vacation time on the many trips to The Lahey Clinic in Burlington, Mass. It was the most thorough physical exam I’ve ever had, which also included a psych exam too. They really want to make sure you know what you’re about to do. I never doubted my decision to donate. The actual operation went very well, with no complications. I went in on Monday and went home on Friday.

Livers grow back? Yes, they do! That was just one of the many things I learned during the process. I found that to be so fascinating. Plus, it’s kind of sci-fi knowing that I was growing a new organ inside of me. 

How are you feeling now? Would you do it again? I feel great. I have no residual effects from my operation other than a huge, bitchin’ scar on my torso. Unfortunately, donating part of your liver is a one-shot deal, but I’d do it again if it were possible.

How’s your uncle-in-law doing? He’s doing great. He was a changed man the very next day.

Word on the street is that this experience has prompted you to make another donation. What’s that about? Well, I’ve spoken to my contacts at The Lahey Clinic and told them I want to donate a kidney. They informed me I would have to wait until after I’ve had my one-year checkup. I’m confident that they’ll let me do this.

Please tell us (and you’re new wife) you’re not going to be on your back for another three months! No, kidney donations aren’t as bad. They take the whole kidney (in a less intrusive way) and you don’t have to grow a new one.

Is your employer understanding about your desire to help others out through these donations? Yes. I spoke to them first before I even mentioned to anyone that I wanted to start the testing process. They were very understanding.

How is your wife of four weeks taking the news that you like giving away your body parts? And are you keeping certain parts off limits to donations? Well, I’m not giving everything away. At first she wasn’t very receptive at all to the idea, but she thought differently after we had a chance to meet other donors and recipients at a Celebration of Life that the hospital held. It was a very moving experience for both of us. As far as my other parts go, I’ll be keeping everything else … except my heart, which I’ve already given to Jen.

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