By GMD & SAR

Toronto, October 25, 2025 — Invited by the mother of one of the film’s central figures — a dear friend and a remarkably kind person — we never expected to witness such a profound act of generosity. Thank you, Grace, for inviting us. Thanks for the Liver is more than a documentary; it’s a testament to friendship, courage, and selfless love that illuminated the night at the Elizabeth Bader Theatre.

The film, directed by University of Toronto alum Fraser Allan Best, premiered earlier this month at Toronto’s Hot Docs Cinema. It chronicles Best’s extraordinary journey from life-threatening illness to recovery, made possible through a life-saving liver donation from his friend and fellow U of T graduate, Robbie Grant.

Born with glycogen storage disease type 1b, a rare genetic condition that affects fewer than 100 people in Canada, Best’s liver could no longer sustain him. By 2017, his health was deteriorating rapidly, and his dream career in journalism seemed to be slipping away. Then came an act of true friendship that would change — and save — his life.

Grant, who studied political science and philosophy alongside Best at U of T, didn’t hesitate when he learned what his friend was facing. “Fraser had a significant risk of death if he didn’t get the organ,” Grant recalls. “For me, the risk was small. It was clearly the right thing to do.”

In August 2020, surgeons removed part of Grant’s liver and transplanted it into Best. The operation was a success — and so began a new chapter for both men.

Through more than 300 hours of candid footage, Thanks for the Liver captures the fear, humour, and deep humanity of Best’s journey. His partner, Kathryn Pierce, helped document some of the film’s most intimate moments, including his fragile but hopeful steps through hospital corridors after surgery.

“I’m not only in excellent health,” Best reflects in the film, “but I’ve also achieved a quality of life that I never had before the transplant.”

The screening, attended by family, friends, and supporters — including Grant’s mother, whose presence added a deeply personal note to the evening — ended in heartfelt applause and tears of admiration.

Thanks for the Liver isn’t just a documentary. It’s a love letter to friendship — and a powerful reminder that sometimes, the greatest gift one human being can give another is the chance to live.