‘Eternally Grateful’ CT Mom Recovering After Getting Liver Transplant From Late Son

A Harwinton woman who recently got a liver transplant from her late son is recovering well after surgery and thanking everyone who has supported their family.

Chris Clegg had been ill and in need of a transplant for a while. She had recently found out her son, Jamison Clegg, was a match.

Tragically, the 36-year-old Jamison, a Torrington resident, was hit by a vehicle in Bristol on March 9 and died from his injuries on March 11.

Liver donation is possible with a live donor, but in this case, doctors used her late son’s liver. Chris Clegg has been recovering from surgery at New York-Presbyterian Hospital.

Penny Phillips, Chris Clegg’s longtime work colleague and friend, said this week Chris is out of the intensive care unit.

“Because Jamison's liver is functioning so well, she will likely go home sooner than expected,” Phillips said.

Phillips, who is marketing and communications director for Favarh - The Arc of the Farmington Valley, Inc. in Canton, has worked with Chris at the organization, which helps people with disabilities.

The organization started a GoFundMe campaign, “Help Chris Heal After Tragic Loss and Transplant,” to benefit her during her grief and recovery from surgery.

As of March 25, it had raised $5,970 toward a goal of $6,500.

A separate GoFundMe campaign, “Support for a Loving Father's Family,” has been launched to help Jamison Clegg’s family. He left behind a fiancée and three young children. As of March 25, it had raised $50,895 toward a $70,000 goal.

According to his obituary, Jamison was working at the time he was struck, and he had been marking underground utilities.

“Following the accident that took his life, Jamison became a hero one last time by donating his liver to his mother, Christine. This life-saving gift ensures that his strength and spirit will literally live on within the woman who gave him life, a final testament to the depth of his devotion,” his obituary says.

Chris and Jamison’s father, Dave Clegg, said via Phillips this week they are “eternally grateful” for the help they have received since their son’s passing, and overwhelmed by the generosity of people who have donated.

"We are thankful for the love and support of our community, family, and friends,” the couple said.

The police investigation into the Bristol accident is ongoing.

Read more:

CT Mom Gets Liver Transplant From Son After Fatal Bristol Accident

Community Helps Family Of Torrington Man Who Died After Being Hit By Car In Bristol

Pedestrian Struck By Motor Vehicle In Bristol: Police